Overview
A mommy makeover is not a single procedure but a combination of surgical procedures, tailored to each patient based on the changes observed after pregnancy or pregnancies:
- Skin and muscle laxity in the abdomen (diastasis, abdominal apron)
- Excess skin around the waist and flanks
- Changes in breast volume and shape (ptosis, loss of glandular tissue)
- Persistence of stubborn localized fat deposits
Depending on the case, a mommy makeover may include:
- A tummy tuck (with or without repair of the abdominal muscles)
- Breast surgery: breast implants, breast lift (mastopexy), or a combination of the two, breast reduction
- Additional liposuction of the waist, hips, or thighs
It is intended for patients who have completed their pregnancy plans (the procedure is not recommended beforehand, due to the risk of another pregnancy that could compromise the outcome), who have finished childbirth and breastfeeding, and whose weight is stable.
In Paris, Dr. Alexandre Vairinho offers a comprehensive morphological analysis to determine which procedures are truly necessary and to assess whether a single-stage procedure is feasible, or whether a two-stage approach is preferable for your safety.
Explanation of the technique
The concept behind a “mommy makeover” is to address, as part of a single treatment plan, the two areas most commonly affected by pregnancy: the abdomen and the breasts.
The abdominal component most often involves a tummy tuck: excess skin below the navel is removed, the navel is repositioned, and the stretched rectus abdominis muscles (diastasis) may be brought together through a plication to restore a flatter, more toned abdominal wall. Liposuction of the flanks is frequently performed in conjunction with this procedure to refine the waistline.
Breast care depends on the condition of the breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding:
- In cases of volume loss without significant ptosis, augmentation with implants may be sufficient
- In cases of ptosis (sagging breasts) with preserved volume, a mastopexy (breast lift) alone is recommended
- In cases of ptosis associated with a loss of volume, a mastopexy with implants can restore both the position and the shape of the breasts
- If there is an increase in breast size, a breast reduction may be considered.
The choice of breast surgery technique is determined during the consultation, based on the clinical examination, the condition of your skin, and your preferences.
Single-stage or multi-stage procedure: When the patient’s overall health permits and the total duration of surgery remains reasonable, these procedures can be performed during a single operation under general anesthesia. In certain situations (complex concomitant procedures, risk factors, or the patient’s preference), a two-stage procedure is recommended to prioritize safety.
Principles of the Mommy Makeover
Depending on the option selected during the consultation, the project may involve:
- Abdominoplasty with or without muscle plication
- Breast augmentation with implants
- Mastopexy (breast lift) with or without implants
- Additional liposuction (waist, hips, saddlebags)
The exact combination of movements depends solely on your anatomy and can only be determined after a clinical examination.
Scars
Scars depend on the procedures performed:
- Tummy tuck: a low, horizontal scar hidden by underwear, and a scar around the navel
- Breast implants: most often placed under the breast (inframammary fold)
- Breast lift: periareolar, vertical, and sometimes horizontal scar, depending on the technique used
Like any surgical scar, they gradually fade but are permanent.
Overview of the procedure
The process for a mommy makeover begins with a thorough specialized consultation to assess the condition of the abdominal wall and the breasts separately, and then to determine the surgical approach best suited to your situation.
A comprehensive clinical examination is performed, assessing the quality and quantity of abdominal skin, the condition of the rectus abdominis muscles, the volume and position of the breasts, and the quality of the breast skin. Weight stability and the absence of plans for future pregnancy are systematically verified, as these factors determine the longevity of the results.
This consultation allows us to discuss realistic goals and, together with you, decide whether to proceed with treatment in a single surgical procedure or in two separate procedures. You will receive detailed medical information, and a personalized estimate will be prepared, in accordance with the legal cooling-off period (Bertranais Law).
Medical photographs may be taken to facilitate preoperative analysis and monitoring of results.
Before the procedure, a preoperative evaluation is ordered, and a consultation with the anesthesiologist is scheduled.
A mommy makeover is performed in a clinic under general anesthesia. The duration of the procedure varies greatly depending on the procedures involved:
- Abdominoplasty alone: approximately 2 to 3 hours
- Tummy tuck + breast surgery (single-stage procedure): typically 3 to 5 hours
- A two-step procedure: duration tailored to each procedure
A hospital stay of 1 to 3 nights is usually required, depending on the procedures performed.
BEFORE / AFTER
Postoperative Care and Expected Results
After the procedure, a period of gradual recovery is necessary. In the first few days, it is common to experience:
- Swelling and bruising on the abdomen and/or chest
- A sensation of abdominal tightness, particularly when the muscles contract
- More pronounced fatigue during the first few days
- Discomfort when taking the first steps and when standing up
An abdominal compression garment and, depending on the breast procedures performed, a compression bra are prescribed for several weeks.
Activities are gradually resuming :
- Gentle walking: started early and encouraged from the very first days
- Sedentary work: generally after 2 to 4 weeks
- Lifting weights and participating in sports: usually after 6 to 8 weeks, especially after a muscle plication
Lifting weights and participating in sports: usually after 6 to 8 weeks, especially after a muscle plication
A mommy makeover provides a comprehensive and harmonious improvement to the body's silhouette after pregnancy. The expected benefits include:
- Elimination of excess abdominal skin and improved abdominal wall tone
- Restoration of breast volume and/or position
- Better balance between the upper body and the abdomen
- Greater ease of movement when dressing and improved comfort in daily life
The results gradually improve over several months, as swelling subsides and the tissues become more supple. Maintaining a stable weight and avoiding another pregnancy are key factors in ensuring the long-term durability of the results.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About the Mommy Makeover
It depends on your situation: some patients may be able to undergo the procedure in a single surgical session, while others may require two separate sessions for safety reasons. This decision is made during your consultation.
Yes. It is recommended that you have completed your pregnancy and that some time has passed since childbirth and breastfeeding, as a new pregnancy would alter the results.
No. This is a body-contouring procedure, not a weight-loss technique. A stable weight is a prerequisite for the procedure.
This issue should be discussed in detail during your consultation, as it depends on the breast surgery technique chosen and your personal situation.
Recovery is gradual and takes several weeks to a few months. A full return to normal activities depends on the individual’s progress, the specific movements involved, and Dr. Vairinho’s postoperative recommendations.
>> This page is intended to provide general information. Only a consultation with Dr. Vairinho will allow for an accurate assessment of your situation and the recommendation of an appropriate treatment plan. A personalized quote is provided only during a consultation.
