If you've heard the term "Mommy Makeover," you may assume that it's a new type of plastic surgery to help recent mothers get back their pre-pregnancy shape. While that's partially true, the term actually refers to a number of different surgeries, often performed at the same time. Each woman's body will experience different effects after giving birth, so deciding what type of plastic surgery your Mommy Makeover will consist of is something you should discuss during your consultation with a board-certified plastic surgery. Until then, here are some ideas for what you may want to ask about.
Procedures for the breasts
One of the most common issues after childbirth is a change in the size or shape of breasts, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgery. There are several different types of procedures that can help treat this issue. Breast implants may be the most well-known, but implants to increase size may not be the best move after childbirth. Instead, many Mommy Makeovers consist of a breast lift or breast augmentation to change or enhance the shape of the breast.
Keep in mind that if you are breastfeeding your infant, you'll want to wait until you've weaned him or her to prevent any issues. Often, it's the very act of breastfeeding that may change the breasts shape. A breast lift can help treat a bust that is sagging due to changes that come with age or childbirth.
Procedures for the tummy
Not surprisingly, carrying a child for nine months can have a profound effect on the shape of one's stomach. While many women will naturally lose weight with exercise and diet after they give birth, more often they have a problem with sagging skin left over. That's why a tummy tuck, rather than liposuction, is usually part of a Mommy Makeover. This procedure can help remove excess skin and restore a more natural, thinner appearance.
Procedures for the lower body
Diet and exercise may not always solve the changes that come with having children, and often women will experience weight gain or shape changes in their lower body that they can't fix on their own. Liposuction is one way to remove stubborn fat from the stomach, thighs or buttocks. Other patients may choose a lower body lift, which tightens sagging skin around the thighs, hips or buttocks.
For more, visit The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery website at http://www.surgery.org/