Much like pregnancy, the recovery period following a mommy makeover requires preparation and patience, but the end result is well worth your time and effort! With the right tools and mindset, you can have a smooth, comfortable healing journey. Discover some of our top mommy makeover recovery tips below.
#1. Plan Ahead With a Mommy Makeover Supply List
Before your surgery, create a mommy makeover recovery must-haves checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared. You’ll want to stock your recovery space with these essentials:
- Surgical garments: You will need to wear supportive garments after mommy makeover surgery to reduce swelling and support your healing. While your surgeon will likely provide you with a surgical bra, compression garment, or both, it doesn’t hurt to have some extra on hand! You can look up reviews online or ask your surgeon for their recommendations.
- Pillows and wedges: These will help you find a comfortable position, especially when you’re figuring out how to sleep after a mommy makeover.
- Loose, easy-to-wear clothing: Opt for soft, button-up tops and loose-fitting bottoms. Knowing what to wear after a mommy makeover makes moving around easier and minimizes discomfort.
- Prescriptions and over-the-counter medications: Fill prescriptions for pain management before your surgery so you don’t have to do it on the day of your operation. You may find it helpful to pick up stool softeners as well in case you experience postoperative constipation.
- Hydration and nutrition essentials: Keep a large water bottle and electrolyte drinks handy to stay hydrated. Healthy snacks are also important. Look for foods that are high in protein, easy to digest, and packed with fiber, while avoiding overly sugary, salty, or processed items.
#2. Follow Your Recovery Plan
Your recovery will vary based on the procedures you choose. A mommy makeover typically treats multiple areas of the body, usually with a tummy tuck, breast enhancement procedure, liposuction, and/or a procedure aimed at intimate wellness.
Depending on your treatment plan, your recovery timeline and needs will vary. Be sure to follow all of your surgeon’s instructions closely and never be afraid to reach out with questions or concerns.
#3. Get Your Beauty Rest—the Right Way
Sleeping on your back in an elevated position avoids straining your incisions, putting pressure on healing tissues, and exacerbating swelling. Recliners or wedge pillows are excellent options for helping you maintain your position throughout the night. If possible, start getting in the habit of sleeping on your back before your procedure for a smooth postoperative transition.
We know it’s not always the most natural or comfortable sleeping position, so if you’re wondering, “When can I sleep on my side after a mommy makeover?”, know that it’s typically safe to switch after 4 to 6 weeks. However, you’ll want to confirm with your doctor first that it’s okay to make the change.
#4. Prioritize Rest but Stay Active
While rest is critical in the early stages of recovery, you won’t be on bed rest. Instead, you’ll want to introduce light movement early on to encourage healing. Short, easy walks can help improve circulation and prevent complications like blood clots. The sooner you can start moving, the better.
#5. Ask for Help
Recovery from a mommy makeover is not a solo endeavor. Enlist help from family or friends for daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and childcare. Having a schedule or communicating your needs early on means that you can focus on yourself after surgery. Plus, it’s always helpful to have an accountability system so you don’t overdo it!
#6. Be Patient With Your Body
It’s normal to feel eager to return to your routine but remember to listen to your body. Questions like, How long after mommy makeover can I… drive, have intercourse, go swimming? are all perfectly valid but will depend on your individual healing rate.
(The general answers, if you’re wondering, are: 2 weeks or when you’re off pain medication and have the necessary mobility to do so, 4 to 8 weeks depending on whether you’ve had labiaplasty or not, and 6 to 8 weeks for pools, the ocean, and hot tubs.)
Keep in mind that recovery milestones will differ for everyone, so don’t rush the process. Your surgeon is here to support you and will determine when you are safe to resume different activities.
Start Your Transformation Today
If you are ready to design your dream body with mommy makeover surgery, get in touch with one of our exceptional plastic surgeons today. Call our office at 713-538-2319 or request a consultation using our online form.