The mommy makeover is one of the most
popular operations performed by plastic surgeons. The procedure is a
combination of cosmetic breast surgery, liposuction, and abdominoplasty (tummy
tuck). It has been designed to correct changes that occur normally with
pregnancy.
During pregnancy and breast-feeding, the
breasts typically increase in size. After pregnancy and breast-feeding, a
variety of scenarios may occur. In some cases, the breasts may not return to
their previous sizes. In this situation, a breast reduction may be necessary.
In other cases, the breasts will shrink to their previous sizes, causing
excess, saggy skin that may require a breast lift. Some patients will lose
volume and require a breast augmentation, while others will have sag and volume
loss and require a breast augmentation and breast lift.
The abdominal wall is also affected. It
becomes stretched and there is usually redundant, saggy skin, stretch marks,
and weakened muscles. This will require abdominoplasty, mini abdominoplasty, or
abdominal wall liposuction. Women also frequently note an increase in fat
accumulation in their hips and thighs—these patients will typically require
liposuction.
There are multiple advantages in
performing these procedures in combination. These include an improved overall
result, lowered cost, and single recovery. Patients typically report increased
self-esteem, self-image, and an overall improvement in the quality of their
lives. For these reasons, the mommy makeover is one of the most popular
operations that is currently performed in plastic surgery.
