Many women choose a Mommy Makeover to regain confidence in their post-baby bodies. This combination of transformative surgical treatments is performed to restore a woman’s body after pregnancy, major weight loss, or age-related changes. It often includes abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and liposuction, along with cosmetic breast enhancements like augmentation, lift, or reduction. Plastic surgeons typically advise women to wait until they are finished having children to undergo a Mommy Makeover, as pregnancy can significantly impact their results. However, life is unpredictable, and some women may become pregnant after a Mommy Makeover. If you are wondering what might happen if you find yourself in this situation and what options you would have, this blog has the answers.
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Can You Get Pregnant After a Mommy Makeover?
A Mommy Makeover does not affect one’s ability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. The procedures included in a Mommy Makeover focus on cosmetic improvements and do not interfere with the reproductive system. However, pregnancy impacts the body significantly, so it’s important to understand how it may change your surgical outcome.
How Does Pregnancy Affect Mommy Makeover Results?
Pregnancy can alter the outcome achieved with a Mommy Makeover in the following ways:
Abdominal Changes
One of the primary components of a Mommy Makeover is a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), which removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal muscles. During pregnancy, these muscles and skin naturally stretch to accommodate the growing baby. In some cases of a post-Mommy Makeover pregnancy, the muscles may separate again (diastasis recti), leading to a return of abdominal bulging or loose skin.
Breast Changes
Breast augmentation, lift, or reduction are common elements of a Mommy Makeover. However, pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause significant fluctuations in breast size, leading to:
- Loss of volume or sagging, even after augmentation.
- Changes in breast shape after a lift or reduction.
- Potential stretching of breast skin and implants shifting position.
Fat Distribution and Weight Gain
Liposuction, often included in a Mommy Makeover, permanently removes fat cells from targeted areas. However, pregnancy and a high-calorie diet can cause remaining cells to grow and new pockets of fat to form in different areas, altering contours. Weight gain during pregnancy is natural, but the way it’s distributed may not be predictable.
Will You Need Revision Surgery After Pregnancy?
Not all women require revision surgery after pregnancy. Some find that their post-pregnancy body remains relatively close to their post-makeover results, while others may experience significant changes that they wish to address.
Here are some factors that help determine if additional procedures are necessary:
- The extent of abdominal muscle separation: If diastasis recti occurs again, a revision tummy tuck may be needed.
- The condition of skin elasticity: If your skin does not bounce back after pregnancy, you may opt for a mini tummy tuck or additional skin tightening procedures.
- Breast volume loss or sagging: A breast lift or implant exchange may help restore the shape and fullness of your breasts.
- Fat accumulation: Additional liposuction can help contour areas affected by post-pregnancy weight changes.
Let Your Body Recover Naturally
After giving birth, your body will go through natural postpartum changes. It’s essential to give yourself time to heal before considering any additional procedures. Most surgeons suggest patients wait at least 6–12 months after childbirth before assessing their bodies and the need for further surgery.
What Are Your Options If You Get Pregnant After a Mommy Makeover?
Non-surgical Treatments
If you experience minor changes, non-surgical skin tightening, body contouring, or fat reduction may help restore your appearance without additional surgery.
Revision Mommy Makeover
If pregnancy significantly impacts your initial results, you may choose to undergo revision surgery, which can include another tummy tuck, breast lift, or additional contouring procedures tailored to your new post-pregnancy body.
Is It Safe to Have a Mommy Makeover If You Plan on Having More Children?
While a Mommy Makeover is safe, it’s generally recommended for women to complete their biological families before undergoing these procedures. However, getting pregnant after a Mommy Makeover is not a dire problem. While pregnancy can alter your cosmetic results, women often maintain a good percentage of their original outcome, so don’t stress. Instead, follow these tips and focus on your health and the well-being of your child.
- Eat and Drink Wisely: Eating nutrient-rich foods and frequently drinking water throughout the day supports skin elasticity, prevents excessive weight gain, and improves overall health during pregnancy.
- Stay Active: Engaging in pregnancy-safe exercises, such as walking and prenatal yoga, can help control weight gain and muscle tone.
- Wear Supportive Garments: A supportive belly band and well-fitted bras can minimize skin stretching and provide additional support for your body.
Learn More About Mommy Makeovers in Pasadena, CA
Your journey to feeling confident in your body is always within reach, no matter what life brings your way! Drs. Martin and Adam O’Toole are both double-board-certified plastic surgeons who perform meticulous cosmetic breast surgery, tummy tucks, liposuction, and Mommy Makeovers in Pasadena, California.
Call Pasadena Cosmetic Surgery at (626) 449-8910 to schedule your consultation or complete our online contact form.