What Makes a Good Candidate for a Mommy Makeover?

Pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and even major weight changes or age alone can leave lasting marks on a woman's body. Loose skin after pregnancy, deflated or sagging breasts after breastfeeding, and stubborn fat deposits with age are common frustrations that often do not improve with diet and exercise alone. For women who want to restore a more youthful, feminine figure — whether they've had children or not — mommy makeover surgery may be an ideal option. At Ben Schultz, MD in Lutherville, MD, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Benjamin D. Schultz designs personalized mommy makeover plans to help women feel comfortable in their own skin once again.

Generally speaking, almost any woman in good health who has experienced unwanted changes in her breasts, skin elasticity, or fat distribution — and who is done having children — can be a potential candidate for a mommy makeover, though there are other important considerations as well. Keep reading to learn more about who may be a good mommy makeover candidate and why, as well as what to expect with a mommy makeover.

What does a mommy makeover include?

Mommy makeover surgery is typically a combination of body contouring procedures tailored to each patient's unique needs. The exact plan for mommy makeover surgery will vary from person to person, but some of the treatments included in a mommy makeover most often are:

In certain cases, procedures like a thigh lift may also be included to address additional areas of loose skin or contouring concerns. By combining treatments into a full mommy makeover surgery, patients can achieve more dramatic and harmonious results while undergoing just a single recovery period.

Who qualifies for a mommy makeover?

Not every woman may be eligible for a mommy makeover, and the right time for a mommy makeover also matters. To maximize safety, comfort, and results, the ideal mommy makeover candidates generally share a few important qualities, such as:

They are in good overall health
They are at or near a stable weight
They are finished having children
They are bothered by multiple areas of concern
They have realistic expectations

During your initial consultation for mommy makeover surgery, Dr. Schultz will thoroughly assess these and other factors to determine if and when you may be ready for a mommy makeover.

What can a mommy makeover help with?

With a fully customized mommy makeover, many of the most common post-pregnancy or post-weight loss physical changes can be improved or even reversed. After mommy makeover, results that patients may enjoy include:

A flatter, firmer abdomen
Reduced stretch marks and loose skin
Restored breast volume and lift
Improved body proportions
A more youthful and feminine silhouette

Additionally, women also report feeling more confident, comfortable, and in control of their bodies again after a mommy makeover, which can positively affect many aspects of daily life.

Am I ready for mommy makeover surgery?

Timing plays one of the most important roles in mommy makeover recovery and results. In a general sense, the right time for a mommy makeover is when you can take at least 2 – 3 weeks off from work, exercise, and daily responsibilities to focus on healing. Having a strong support system in place to help with children, driving, and household duties during recovery is also essential. It's important to keep in mind that mommy makeover surgery involves multiple areas of the body and is considered a fairly extensive procedure that will require dedicated downtime and follow-up appointments — but the life-changing results are often considered to be worth it.

Love your look again with a mommy makeover in Lutherville, MD

For women who are ready to restore their pre-pregnancy figure or address changes from weight loss or aging, mommy makeover surgery can offer a complete transformation opportunity. At Ben Schultz, MD, in Lutherville, MD, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Benjamin D. Schultz works closely with each woman to design a safe, tailored surgical plan that fits her goals and lifestyle. Contact our friendly team today to schedule a consultation and find out whether you're a candidate — and if now is the right time — for a mommy makeover.