What is a mommy makeover?

Pregnancy causes significant changes to the body that can linger long after the baby is born. A mommy makeover is a collection of cosmetic procedures, performed in one surgical session, that restore the shape and appearance of the post-pregnancy body.

Doctors offer different techniques and combinations of procedures, but the most common areas targeted are the breasts, abdomen, waist, genitalia and buttocks. A mommy makeover can address the following:

  • Breasts that are sagging, uneven or decreased in volume
  • Drooping nipples and stretched areolas
  • Excess fat in the midsection, hips and thighs
  • Increased breast size that’s out of proportion to the rest of your body and/or causes back pain
  • Loose skin, stretch marks and lack of definition around the waistline
  • Sagging or loose vaginal tissue

If you’re considering a mommy makeover, for lasting results it’s best to have one after you’re done having children.

How a mommy makeover works

A mommy makeover is usually performed under general anesthesia. Your experience will be unique based on the procedures you choose to have; see the list below for the steps involved in each.

Which areas of the body does a mommy makeover treat?

A mommy makeover can include one or more of the following procedures:

How long does it take to recover from a mommy makeover?

Depending on the procedures you choose to have, recovery could take several weeks — but as with every surgery, recovery is highly individual. During your consultation, your doctor will talk with you about what to expect.

Q. How long will it be before I can lift my kids after a mommy makeover?

A. It depends on the procedures you have, but you’ll likely need help at home for at least a week and possibly longer. Pushing a stroller is fine (and you’re actually advised to take daily walks). Most people go back to work about three weeks after a mommy makeover and can slowly resume normal activities and light exercise in about six weeks.

Q. How soon after giving birth can I have a mommy makeover?


A. The timeframe is different for everyone. Most people are advised to wait at least three months after finishing breastfeeding, and to maintain a stable weight for at least three months before having the procedures.

Q. Do I need to wait until I’m done having children to have a mommy makeover?

A. The skin on your abdomen, breasts and other areas is likely to stretch with pregnancy, which will affect the results of a previous mommy makeover, so it’s recommended that you wait until you’ve finished having children to have these procedures.