Mommy Makeover

A mommy makeover is a combination of several common procedures performed during the same operation, aimed to address weight gain and skin stretching in the abdomen, and loss of firmness in the breasts, experienced after birthing and breastfeeding. Most commonly, the procedures include a breast lift, a tummy tuck and liposuction, but can also include breast augmentation, and labiaplasty or scar revision, depending on if a cesarean delivery method was required for childbirth.

Breast Lift and Augmentation

Many women, especially those in their 30’s or older, will want a breast lift after breastfeeding. The breasts expand and contract so much with milk production, it is not uncommon for a woman’s cup size to increase several sizes, only to drop back down once her baby stops breastfeeding. Because the skin has had to stretch so much to accommodate this, many women are left with flatter, saggier breasts, requiring a breast lift. Some women will even feel that their breasts have shrunk, leading to the need for a combination lift and augmentation.

Tummy Tuck

During a tummy tuck, your surgeon will make an incision along your bikini line, and pull down the loose skin and muscle, tightening the abdominal area. Extra skin and muscle is removed and the incision closed. Some women with urinary incontinence also choose to have a small piece of extra tissue placed near the bladder, which can help regulate urinary flow.

Liposuction

Liposuction is sometimes used prior to the tummy tuck to help get rid of larger, more stubborn, fat deposits, particularly near the abdomen and around the love handles. Other areas, like the hips and thighs, which may have gain fat during pregnancy can also be liposuctioned

Labiaplasty

Occasionally during childbirth, a woman’s labia minora (the hairless inner labia) stretches substantially, causing them to stretch beyond the protective labia majora. This can be not only embarrassing, but also uncomfortable. Sensitivity in the labia minora can cause chafing, making exercise and sexual activity uncomfortable. During a labiaplasty, excess skin is removed and the incision closed. After the patient has healed, her labia will be both functional and protected by the labia majora.

Scar Revision

While many cesarean section procedures result in scars which are barely noticeable, especially under clothing, there may be times when scarring is raised, discolored or painful. A scar revision can help create a more subtle appearance. During the procedure, your surgeon will reopen the c-section incision, and very carefully reclose it with dissolvable stitches, reducing the size of the scar. Often, scar revisions will be done in conjunction with a tummy tuck.