I’m sharing my packing list and answering any questions you have with my decision for a Mommy Makeover!
I had my third and final baby in May 2020 and he was the perfect addition to our family. I’ll eventually get around the writing his birth story (hello Covid baby), but I want to share some other exciting news!
After 20 long months of changing my health and wellness, we as a family have transformed our lifestyle into one that is active and exciting. The days seemed endless with workouts and meal prepping, but I knew in order for me to get the results I want, it was going to be hard work. Time passed, and I was able to lose 60 pounds but I came to the realization that my skin had stretched so much from pregnancy, the only solution at this point is plastic surgery.
I’ve heard about Mommy Makeovers and they are very intense, but I’m not going to let that get in the way of feeling comfortable in my skin again. I’ve done months of hard work physically and mentally, this was just the light at the end of the tunnel. So with that being said, I’m sharing my packing list and most common questions I asked my surgeon to make me feel more comfortable going in to surgery.
*In no way am I professional. These are just FAQ from readers along with sharing my journey with plastic surgery. Please consult a doctor for better understanding of procedures*
What is a Mommy Makeover?
The best way to describe a mommy makeover is a personalized combination of body contouring procedures to improve physical well being in relation to having children and losing a certain amount of weight. As for my Mommy Makeover; I will be doing a Mastopexy (Breast Lift), Extended Tummy Tuck and Liposuction of the inner and outer flanks (thighs).
How Much does a Mommy Makeover Cost?
I spent a lot of time doing research on the cost along with surgeons in the area. I chose my surgeon based on comfort level and his wide range portfolio. The practices local to me range from $16k – $25k for the mommy makeover. I opted with a surgeon that was closer to my mom on the East Side of Detroit, that gives me the opportunity to stay with my mom for a week and be out of the way from my boys. I would say the best estimate for a mommy makeover will range from $14k – $20k.
What is the Recovery Time for a Mommy Makeover?
This one is hard to answer because everyone will recover at their own pace. I’ve had three c-sections and I feel that after each one, I was eager to get up and get moving. I know this won’t necessarily be the case with plastic surgery. My surgeons office recommended no lifting for 3 weeks, that includes low impact weights and my babies. I think this will be the hardest part for recovery, sweet cuddles from Atticus will have to be in bed or on the couch. Typically 6 weeks is when you start to really feel like yourself again.
How Do I Explain my Mommy Makeover to My Kids?
I went back and forth with my husband on how to explain this to the boys. Atticus and Elliott won’t truly understand, it’s really just Oliver (5 year old) that I need to explain. We’ve been prepping by explaining that mommy has a lot of loose skin after her belly stretching from babies. It’s time to have surgery and I will have a big boo boo for a few weeks. I personally believe it’s important to be open and honest with them so they are prepared for when I come home. I know they will be so excited to see me, but they will also have to realize that I will have a huge incision on my belly.
How to Prep for Mommy Makeover
I’ve spent the two weeks prior to surgery prepping our home, my husband and kids along with my hospital bag. I was directed by the staff at my pre-op visit to eliminate salt from my diet, no more alcohol and start taking a multivitamin and vitamin C. I also started meal prepping for my husband so he could have something to throw in the oven for dinner. These recipes were great!
Liquid IV / Neck Pillow / Untamed / Arnica / Zip Front Bra / Lounge Pants
These items were not only recommended by my surgeon, but also what I found through other moms to be the best for recovery. I have most everything set aside, but there are a few things left on my list. I’m waiting for this wedge pillow. My core will be completely useless and I was told this was the most comfortable position to sleep in. I bought a pack of these lanyards for my drains. I also plan on grabbing a few more books to read. Another big investment would be this CryoTherapy Ice Machine. Thankfully, we had this for my husbands ACL surgery a few weeks prior. I had the choice to get a rental, but I knew with three boys, this would be used frequently!
So, now we wait!! Stay tuned on my Instagram stories so you can follow along. I’m hoping to do progress photos for the first few weeks! Wish me luck!
Thanks for sharing your experience! Very helpful.