Pregnancy and childbirth often lead to lasting changes in the body, including shifts in breast shape, abdominal contours, and fat distribution. These natural adjustments can leave some individuals with sagging skin, weakened abdominal muscles, or areas of stubborn fat. A mommy makeover at Tarola Plastic Surgery in Murfreesboro, TN, is a way to reshape and lift areas altered by pregnancy. This procedure can address multiple areas and concerns in a single appointment.
How Pregnancy and Childbirth Affect the Body
During pregnancy, hormones increase to prepare the body for childbirth and nursing, while the abdomen stretches to accommodate the uterus, often weakening the abdominal muscles. Weight fluctuations and milk production can alter the shape and volume of the breasts, which sometimes leaves them feeling smaller, softer, or less lifted after breastfeeding ends.
The skin may develop stretch marks as collagen fibers are stretched beyond their limit, and areas like the hips or thighs can accumulate more fat due to hormonal changes. These natural changes don’t always return to their previous state, even after efforts like healthy eating and exercising.
What Is a Mommy Makeover?
A mommy makeover combines surgical procedures to address the physical changes that pregnancy and childbirth bring. It typically focuses on areas like the breasts and abdomen, where skin may sag or muscles weaken, but it can also include other treatments to refine the body’s contours. We can customize our procedure for you depending on the areas you want to target.
A Closer Look at What a Mommy Makeover Addresses
- Sagging Breasts: The ligaments that support the breasts often stretch with weight fluctuations and breastfeeding, which can make the breasts appear lower on the chest. Skin elasticity also decreases, so even after milk production stops, the breasts may not regain their previous position or firmness.
- Small Breasts: Mommy makeovers can also address breast size. Some women experience lasting volume loss after pregnancy as glandular tissue is replaced with fatty tissue. Clothing may fit differently, and the upper part of the breasts can appear flatter or less rounded than before.
- Loose Abdominal Skin: The abdominal skin stretches to accommodate the growing uterus, and collagen fibers can weaken in the process. Stretch marks and skin that feels less firm are common in this area, but can be removed and tightened through surgical methods.
- Muscle Separation: During pregnancy, the pressure of the expanding uterus can push the abdominal muscles apart along the midline. This separation can make the stomach look rounded or bloated, even when you’re physically fit, and may contribute to lower back discomfort. Surgery can bring these separated muscles back together.
- Sagging Belly Button: When the skin around it loosens, the belly button can look stretched or elongated, which can affect the overall appearance of the abdomen. While correcting abdominal muscles and loose skin, we can also improve the shape and size of the belly button.
- Excess Fat: Sometimes, the only way to get rid of stubborn fat deposits is through surgery. Genetics can influence where these pockets are and how difficult they are to remove, and sometimes they still remain even after weight loss.
Types of Surgeries Included In a Mommy Makeover
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation enhances the size and shape of the breasts using implants. These come in different types, including saline, silicone, and gummy bear implants, each with unique benefits. The implants can be placed above or below the chest muscle, depending on your anatomy and aesthetic goals.
The surgery involves incisions typically made in discreet locations, such as along the inframammary fold (under the breast), around the areola, or in the armpit. This allows the surgeon to insert the implants while minimizing visible scarring. Breast augmentation in a mommy makeover can restore volume loss after pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, tightens the abdominal muscles and removes excess skin from the midsection. This is beneficial for patients experiencing muscle separation (diastasis recti), a common result of pregnancy. During the procedure, the surgeon sutures the separated abdominal muscles back together, creating a firmer and flatter core. Excess skin is then removed to smooth and flatten the abdomen, while the belly button is repositioned for a natural appearance.
Incisions for a tummy tuck are typically placed low on the abdomen, just above the pubic area, allowing scars to be easily concealed under clothing or swimwear. For some patients, a mini tummy tuck, which targets only the lower abdomen, may be the right fit. Others may benefit from a full abdominoplasty, which addresses the entire abdomen.
Breast Lift
A breast lift, or mastopexy, reshapes and elevates sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. This procedure restores the breast’s position after the changes caused by pregnancy or breastfeeding. Unlike breast augmentation, a breast lift does not alter the size of the breasts, but can dramatically improve their shape and height.
Surgeons use different techniques depending on the degree of lift desired, with incisions placed around the areola, vertically from the areola to the breast crease, or horizontally along the breast fold. For patients with mild sagging, a periareolar (doughnut) incision may be sufficient. For more significant changes, a lollipop or anchor incision provides greater reshaping ability. A breast lift can be performed alone or combined with augmentation or reduction.
Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to create smaller, more proportionate breasts. This procedure can alleviate discomfort caused by overly large breasts. It also provides aesthetic benefits, offering a more balanced silhouette. During the procedure, we reshape the breast tissue, remove excess volume, and reposition the nipple and areola. In some cases, liposuction is used to refine the breast shape further.
Liposuction
Liposuction is a surgical technique that removes stubborn fat deposits from areas such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, or arms. During a mommy makeover, liposuction complements other procedures to sculpt and enhance body contours. The surgeon uses a thin tube called a cannula to break up fat and suction it out.
We favor tumescent liposuction, which uses a saline solution to minimize bleeding and discomfort. Incisions are small and strategically placed to minimize scarring, often hidden in natural creases. Liposuction can refine the overall results of a mommy makeover and enhance the body’s proportions by targeting areas resistant to other treatments.
Labiaplasty
Labiaplasty reduces and reshapes the labia minora, the inner folds of skin surrounding the vaginal opening, to improve comfort and symmetry. Childbirth, hormones, and genetics can cause the labia to stretch or become uneven, which may lead to irritation during exercise, discomfort in tight clothing, or self-consciousness in intimate settings. The procedure removes excess tissue, but preserves natural sensitivity.
The two most common surgical techniques are the trim method and the wedge method. The trim method removes tissue along the outer edge of the labia for a smooth, even outline, while the wedge method removes a V-shaped section from the thickest part of the labia and preserves the natural border. Both techniques can be performed under local (with or without sedation) or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of correction. In some cases, labiaplasty may be combined with clitoral hood reduction to improve balance and comfort.
Additional Options to Enhance Your Results
Brazilian Butt Lift
A mommy makeover with BBL combines fat removal and transfer to shape and enhance the buttocks. Fat is collected through liposuction from areas like the abdomen or thighs, purified, and then injected into the buttocks to create a fuller and more symmetrical shape. The technique uses your body’s own fat, offering natural-looking results while simultaneously refining other areas.
Upper Arm Lift
Also known as brachioplasty, this procedure removes sagging skin and excess fat along the upper arms that can develop after pregnancy or weight changes. The remaining skin is tightened to make the upper arm look more toned. Some patients may also benefit from additional liposuction to refine the results.
Thigh Lift
A thigh lift targets loose skin and stubborn fat along the inner or outer thighs that can remain after childbirth or weight fluctuations. Removing excess tissue and tightening the surrounding area helps achieve a firmer, more sculpted leg shape that better complements the rest of the body.
Non-Surgical Skin Tightening
Treatments like RF microneedling and radiofrequency-based devices stimulate collagen and elastin production within the skin. These therapies can firm and smooth areas such as the abdomen or thighs without surgery or downtime. They can be used on their own to treat loose skin and stretch marks, or they can be used alongside a surgical procedure to enhance the results.
Scar Revision
Surgical or non-surgical scar revision can minimize the appearance of scars from previous procedures or injuries. Techniques may include surgical excision or non-surgical treatments to improve texture and blend the scar with the surrounding skin. Results vary depending on scar type, location, and individual healing response.
Why Choose a Mommy Makeover?
A mommy makeover is a good way to address many of the physical changes that come with pregnancy and childbirth. By combining multiple procedures, multiple areas can be treated with only one recovery period. Every procedure is also adjusted to fit your body and your goals, whether it’s lifting and reshaping the breasts, tightening up the abdominal area, or using liposuction to refine your contours. It’s a way to help restore the shape and balance of your body, focusing on what matters most to you.
The Long-Term Benefits of a Mommy Makeover
Improved Posture
A mommy makeover can improve posture by restoring balance to the body’s core and upper frame. Tightening the abdominal muscles and removing excess abdominal weight can reduce the strain placed on the lower back. In some cases, breast reduction or lift surgery lightens the chest load, which helps correct a forward-leaning posture and reduces shoulder and neck discomfort.
Better Core Strength
Repairing diastasis recti, the separation of abdominal muscles caused by pregnancy, strengthens the midsection and stabilizes the spine. Reconnecting these muscles creates a flatter, firmer appearance while improving control and endurance during workouts. A stronger core also enhances balance and reduces the likelihood of injury during physical activity. Patients often find it easier to rebuild tone through targeted exercise once the muscles have been properly rejoined.
Renewed Comfort During Exercise
Physical activity can feel easier and more comfortable after a mommy makeover, especially when issues like sagging breasts, stretched abdominals, or enlarged labia are corrected. Tighter abdominal muscles improve support during core exercises, while breast or labial surgery can eliminate the discomfort caused by movement or friction. Reduced bulk and restored muscle tone allow for better flexibility and range of motion.
Improved Motivation to Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Seeing a balanced, proportionate figure again can be a powerful source of motivation to stay healthy and active. Patients often feel encouraged to maintain their results through consistent exercise and nutritious eating habits. With restored strength and confidence, they may approach fitness with renewed energy and enjoyment.
The Benefits of Combining Procedures
Comprehensive Results
Combining procedures in a mommy makeover allows multiple areas of the body to be addressed at once, which can create a balanced and harmonious transformation. When we treat the breasts, abdomen, and other regions together, we can make sure that the overall shape and proportions complement each other.
Single Anesthesia Event
Performing several surgeries in one session means anesthesia is only administered once, which reduces overall exposure and minimizes separate recovery periods. Patients can focus on healing from all procedures simultaneously instead of going through multiple stages of downtime. This approach also simplifies the preparation and aftercare process for a smoother and more efficient experience.
Cost Efficiency
Bundling procedures into one mommy makeover can be more cost-effective than scheduling them individually. Facility and anesthesia fees are paid once, which can lower total expenses. A single recovery period reduces the amount of time away from work or family responsibilities, saving both time and resources.
What to Expect From Your Mommy Makeover
Mommy Makeover Preparations
Before your mommy makeover, we’ll review your medical history, conduct a physical exam, and customize your surgical plan. You’ll need to stop smoking, avoid medications like blood thinners, and prepare your home for recovery by gathering essentials such as comfortable clothing, post-surgical supplies, and prescribed medications. We’ll also recommend arranging for someone to help at home during the initial healing period and provide detailed instructions to ensure you’re fully prepared for surgery. Before your surgery, make sure to also:
- Maintain a balanced diet: Focus on nutrient-dense foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to support healing. Staying hydrated and limiting processed foods can help the body recover more efficiently after surgery.
- Plan your time off: Most patients need at least two weeks away from work and daily responsibilities. Scheduling this time in advance and preparing childcare can make recovery less stressful.
- Set up a comfortable recovery space: Place extra pillows, blankets, and entertainment options near where you’ll be resting. Keep necessities like water, medications, and snacks within easy reach to minimize movement during early recovery.
- Prepare emotionally and mentally: Understanding what to expect during recovery can ease anxiety and set realistic expectations. Reviewing before-and-after photos and discussing your goals with us can help you be confident and informed.
- Arrange transportation: You’ll need a friend or family member to drive you home after surgery and, ideally, to stay with you for the first 24 hours. You will need assistance with mobility, meals, and basic care needs.
- Avoid alcohol and herbal supplements: These can interfere with anesthesia or increase bleeding risk. Follow our specific medication and supplement guidelines for at least two weeks before your procedure.
The Day of the Procedure
On the day of your mommy makeover, arrive at the surgical center wearing loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to remove and put back on. You will check in, complete any final paperwork, and meet with Dr. Tarola to review the surgical plan one last time. Pre-operative markings may be made to guide the procedure, and your vital signs will be taken to confirm you are ready for surgery. An IV line is placed so medications can be administered as needed.
Your mommy makeover will begin with general anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Local anesthesia may also be used in procedures like liposuction to minimize pain after the surgery. The length of the surgery will differ depending on which procedures are included, but the average mommy makeover takes between four and six hours. Once the surgery is over, you will gradually come out of the anesthesia and will recover for the first several hours in a recovery room. Once we are sure that it is safe to release you, a friend or family member can drive you home.
Recovering From Your Mommy Makeover
During your mommy makeover recovery, you can expect swelling, bruising, and some discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medication. Most patients return to light activities within two weeks, but strenuous tasks and exercise should wait six to eight weeks. Wearing compression garments helps minimize swelling and supports healing, while follow-up appointments allow us to monitor your progress. Detailed aftercare instructions will guide you in caring for incisions and promoting a smooth recovery.
Mommy Makeover Healing Timeline
First Week
The first week of mommy makeover recovery often includes swelling, tightness, and general fatigue as the body begins to heal. Prescription medications help manage discomfort, and it’s important to take them on the recommended schedule to stay ahead of pain. Most movement should be minimal, but short walks will promote circulation.
Weeks 2–4
Swelling and bruising typically begin to reduce, and you may start to feel more comfortable moving around the house. Light daily activities, such as short errands or desk work, can usually be resumed if cleared by your surgeon. Incisions continue to heal, and any tightness in the abdomen or breasts should gradually improve.
Months 2–3
As tissues continue to settle, the body starts revealing early contour improvements. Gentle exercise, including low-impact cardio or stretching, is usually safe to reintroduce, while core strengthening and lifting may still need to be avoided. You should notice higher energy levels, and your skin and muscles should continue adjusting to their new structure.
Months 6–12
The final phase of recovery focuses on refinement and scar maturation. Residual swelling continues to diminish, and the body’s contours take on their lasting appearance. Scars begin to soften and fade, becoming less noticeable as collagen remodeling completes. Most patients feel back to normal by the one-year mark.
Maintaining Your Results
Maintaining mommy makeover results involves a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to preserve your enhanced contours. Hydration and a consistent skincare routine support your skin’s health and elasticity. With stable weight management and good habits, you can enjoy your results for many years.
Out of Town Mommy Makeover Patients
Out-of-town patients are welcome through a dedicated program designed to make mommy makeover travel seamless and comfortable. You will schedule a virtual consultation with Dr. Tarola through video or phone to review goals and surgical options before traveling. Once the plan is made, our out-of-town coordinator helps arrange accommodations near the Murfreesboro office and provides detailed pre- and post-operative guidance. Most patients fly into Nashville International Airport, located about 30 minutes from the practice, and stay in the area for seven to ten days after surgery for follow-up care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mommy Makeovers
Who Is a Good Candidate for Mommy Makeovers?
Candidates for a mommy makeover surgery are individuals in good overall health who have completed their family planning and are looking to address the physical changes caused by pregnancy and childbirth. Ideal candidates have areas of sagging skin, stretched abdominal muscles, or stubborn fat deposits that haven’t improved with diet or exercise. It’s important to have realistic expectations and to be at or near your desired weight before undergoing surgery since liposuction and other procedures do not significantly change overall weight.
What Can I Expect From My Scars?
After a mommy makeover surgery, scars are an expected part of the healing process, but they are carefully placed to be as discreet as possible. Tummy tuck incisions are usually located low on the abdomen, while breast surgery scars may appear around the areola, under the breast fold, or vertically down the breast, depending on the procedure. Over time, scars typically fade with proper care, which may include scar creams, silicone sheets, or other treatments recommended by your surgeon.
How Soon Can I Have a Mommy Makeover After Giving Birth?
It’s generally recommended to wait at least six months to a year after giving birth before undergoing a mommy makeover surgery. This allows your body time to heal and stabilize at a consistent weight and allows you to finish breastfeeding if applicable. Waiting helps surgical results align with your body’s post-pregnancy state and reduces the risk of complications during recovery.
Can I Get Pregnant After a Mommy Makeover?
While it is possible to become pregnant after a mommy makeover surgery, it’s best to wait until you are finished having children before undergoing the procedure. Future pregnancies can stretch the abdominal muscles, alter breast shape, and potentially impact your surgical results. Planning your surgery after completing your family helps preserve the long-term outcomes of your makeover.
How Much Does a Mommy Makeover Cost?
The cost of mommy makeover surgery varies depending on the specific procedures included, such as breast enhancement, tummy tuck, or liposuction. Factors like surgical complexity, anesthesia, and facility fees also influence the final price. A detailed quote is provided after consultation once your personalized treatment plan has been designed to meet your goals.
Why Choose Dr. Tarola for Your Mommy Makeover?
Dr. Nicholas Tarola brings years of expertise and a dedication to achieving natural, individualized results for his patients. At Tarola Plastic Surgery, he prioritizes open communication to ensure every patient’s goals and expectations are clearly understood. Dr. Tarola believes patient education is essential and provides detailed information about treatment options and outcomes to help patients make confident decisions. With extensive training and experience in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery for the face, breast, and body, he offers a comprehensive approach to procedures like mommy makeovers. His commitment to precision and personalized care sets him apart as a trusted choice for transformative results.
Schedule Your Mommy Makeover Surgery Today
A mommy makeover at Tarola Plastic Surgery can address the physical changes that occur after pregnancy, offering a way to restore balance and shape to areas like the breasts and abdomen. With a combination of customizable procedures, it provides comprehensive results that focus on your unique goals. To learn more about how this procedure can benefit you, contact us through our online form or call (615) 713-1695 to schedule a consultation in Murfreesboro, TN.
