Even when you’re 100% ready and committed, a mommy makeover here in Houston is a major, life-changing decision. It takes thought, research, coordination, and determination to go through each part of the process. So how do you know if you’re ready? That’s one question I hear so many women ask — whether they’re friends, family, or patients of mine.
Though my response will depend on each unique patient and her situation, there are a few common threads to my advice, no matter who’s considering the procedure. Here’s my rough checklist to help you understand whether this is the right time in your life for a mommy makeover treatment.
1. You’ve maintained a healthy diet and exercise routine for at least 6 months, and your weight is relatively stable. If you’re still working toward your goal weight or haven’t figured out a fitness schedule that works for you, I encourage you to wait until those aspects of your life are steady and comfortable. You need to be essentially where you want to be, weight-wise, because changes in weight after the procedure can affect — and even undo — the results.
The core of this is really living an active, healthy lifestyle, both before and after your procedure. One of the best things I can hear a patient say is that she love the results so much that she’s even more motivated to keep up those healthy habits.
2. You understand that mommy makeover procedures are best performed after you’re done having children. After all, we call it a “mommy makeover” because of the physical changes brought on by pregnancy, childbirth, and nursing. Just as with weight fluctuations, pregnancy can change or even reverse the effects of mommy makeover. Scars will stretch, distributions of fat will change, and breasts will swell (and potentially sag more). Please, wait until your family is complete before undergoing this surgery.
3. You’re emotionally prepared for the temporary change in lifestyle while you heal. There’s no way around it: After surgery, you’ll be unable to care for your family and friends to the extent that you did before. In fact, they should be the ones caring for you, especially in those first few days. And you know what? That’s okay! Let them provide you with the love and attention you offer them, and you’ll heal smoothly and efficiently.
4. You’re prepared to ease back in to your routine after surgery. It should be no surprise that you’re going to go through a healing process. You’ll be tired and sore for the first week after surgery, and you’ll spend most of your time resting. For the next 3 weeks, let your body tell you what you’re up for. You’ll have to take it slow, with extra concern for your body’s needs. During this time, swelling and bruising may cause you some frustration, but I promise that in a few weeks, you’ll be looking and feeling better about yourself than you have in a long time. Check out the transformations other patients have experienced in this short video.
If you’re ready to learn more about this procedure, visit the mommy makeover section of my blog. I’ve written several posts detailing the treatment process, from your consultation to your recovery. And if I haven’t answered some other questions you may have, feel free to leave them in the comments below and I’ll get right back to you!
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