The popularity of Mommy Makeover surgery continues to rise here in Orange County, but many people still have questions about this customizable combination procedure. To clear things up, here are the 3 most common components of a Mommy Makeover and what makes each so popular:
- Tummy tuck: Many people think of a tummy tuck as a procedure that reduces excess abdominal fat, but it actually goes much deeper than that. A full tummy tuck is extraordinarily popular with women who have been pregnant because it also addresses loose and displaced abdominal muscles and excess skin. Neither of these conditions respond particularly well to diet and exercise, which can be quite frustrating. The scar created by a tummy tuck can almost always be adequately concealed beneath clothing and even swimwear. And, as a bonus for many moms, a tummy tuck can often eliminate stretch marks and C-section scars. Almost all Mommy Makeovers include this surgery.
- Breast enhancement: Breast lift and breast augmentation procedures are beloved by my Orange County patients on their own, paired together, or performed as part of a broader Mommy Makeover. Pregnancy affects each woman’s breasts in different ways. As the breasts enlarge during pregnancy and breastfeeding, the skin stretches to accommodate their increased volume. After breastfeeding, the breasts typically become smaller and lose elasticity, causing a “deflated” appearance. Occasionally, the breasts can actually become smaller than they were prior to pregnancy. Breast augmentation and breast lift surgeries enlarge and lift the breasts, respectively. But it’s quite common to perform both procedures at the same time to transform both the size and the placement of the breasts for perky, youthful-looking fullness.
- Liposuction: Liposuction is a great way to put the “finishing touches” on a Mommy Makeover. It’s often used to smooth and refine areas where stubborn fat tends to accumulate, including the abdomen, love handles, thighs, and buttocks — even under the chin.
Of course, you’re free to customize your Mommy Makeover as you like. Pregnancy affects all women in different ways, so there’s no rule that says you must undergo a tummy tuck or breast augmentation as part of your operation. And you can add other treatments, such as a thigh lift or facial procedure, to suit your goals.
During each consultation, I review the patient’s aesthetic goals and work with her to draft a surgical plan that meets those goals as best as possible. Although undergoing multiple procedures in a single surgery is safe, it’s vital to seek out an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon to ensure the best possible outcome for yourself.
