Mommy Makeover Recovery Time: What to Expect After Surgery
Posted July 28, 2022 in Mommy Makeover
As you plan for Mommy Makeover surgery, you’re probably wondering just how long the recovery time will be. While the recovery timeline can vary per individual, here is what most people can expect for downtime after Mommy Makeover surgery.
What is the Recovery Timeline After Mommy Makeover Surgery?
A Mommy Makeover is a major undertaking and will require you to take some time off from your normal lifestyle to heal. Patient recovery times will vary based on the number and extent of the procedures performed. Most patients who undergo a traditional Mommy Makeover with breast surgery, abdominoplasty, and liposuction can expect the following for their recovery:
Mommy Makeover Recovery Timeline |
|
2-5 Days After Mommy Makeover Surgery | Bandages are removed |
7-10 Days After Mommy Makeover Surgery | Soreness and bruising begin to subside |
10-14 Days After Mommy Makeover Surgery | Return to work |
3 Weeks After Mommy Makeover Surgery | Gradually reintroduce light cardio exercises |
4-6 Weeks After Mommy Makeover Surgery | Gradually reintroduce heavy lifting |
6 Weeks After Mommy Makeover Surgery | Most significant swelling will subside |
7 Weeks After Mommy Makeover Surgery | Gradually reintroduce weight training exercises |
8-12 Weeks After Mommy Makeover Surgery | Gradually reintroduce abdominal and core strengthening exercises |
You will need a support system to help with childcare and other needs until you are able to resume normal activities and heavy lifting. Take care to listen to your body’s needs and reintroduce activities gradually at a lower intensity so that you do not significantly damage your body while it heals from surgery. Most importantly, follow your doctor’s recommendations for the optimal recovery experience and procedure.
How Long Are You Down After Mommy Makeover Surgery?
This important question will vary per patient. Rest is critical for surgical recovery, and you will need to plan to rest as much as possible. Be sure you have a support system you can rely on to take care of your needs and your family’s needs while you are down. Most patients will not feel physically ready to return to work until 10 to 14 days after surgery; however, this does not mean you will be bedridden until then! Light walking from time to time is encouraged during even the first week of recovery to promote circulation and healing. At your postoperative follow-up appointment, your surgeon will assess your recovery progress and recommend when to reintroduce your typical daily activities.
When Will I Feel Better After Mommy Makeover Surgery?
Most patients will feel better within 1-2 weeks after Mommy Makeover surgery. Pain medications and ice packs can be used to reduce discomfort from soreness and swelling during the first two weeks. Most soreness typically subsides by the middle/end of week 2 after surgery. By that time, most patients are feeling significantly better and well enough to return to work.
When Can I Go Back to Work After a Mommy Makeover?
Most patients are ready to return to work 10 to 14 days after a Mommy Makeover. However, it is important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard. If you feel like you need more time to recover, you should take it. It is better to take an extra day or two off now than to risk injuring yourself by pushing too hard too soon. If you are not sure when you should return to work, your postoperative follow-up appointment is a good time to ask for advice.
When Will Swelling Go Away After Mommy Makeover Surgery?
Most significant swelling goes away within 6 weeks after a Mommy Makeover. However, some minor swelling can persist for months, even up to 1 year after surgery. This is part of the recovery experience after major surgery.
How Soon After a Mommy Makeover Can I Exercise?
You should avoid strenuous physical activity for at least 6 weeks after surgery. This means no running, jogging, weight-lifting, or other activities that require a lot of physical exertion. Walking is fine, but you should avoid carrying anything heavy (over five pounds) for 4 to 6 weeks. Most patients can gradually reintroduce light cardiovascular exercises 3 weeks after surgery, weight training around 7 weeks, and abdominal exercises around 8 to 12 weeks. Read more about when to exercise after Mommy Makeover surgery.
Recovery after major surgery is a necessary step toward achieving the results you desire. By being patient and following your surgeon’s instructions, you can help your Mommy Makeover recovery to go as smoothly as possible.
If you have more questions about Mommy Makeover recovery or would like to learn more about Mommy Makeovers in general, please contact our office to book an appointment with Dr. Taleisnik. Call (657) 294-8375 or contact us online today.