Get Ready for Summer: Your Mommy Makeover Recovery Timeline

Motherhood is a beautiful thing. You’ve brought a new life into the world (or maybe several new lives), and you love your children immensely.

At the same time, giving birth changes your body in multiple ways, and once you’re finished having children, you may want to consider restoring your pre-pregnancy body.

One of the most popular ways to do this is with a Mommy Makeover, which combines several procedures to enhance your figure and give your self‑confidence a meaningful boost.

Mommy Makeovers are highly customizable according to your specific situation and goals. Common procedures often include a breast lift, breast augmentation, breast reduction, tummy tuck, and liposuction.

This time of year is ideal for a Mommy Makeover to help get you ready for summer. Recovery times vary based on the procedures you undergo, but the average is about six weeks. 

From our expert team at Frederick H. Watkins, MD, here’s a look at your Mommy Makeover recovery timeline.

Weeks 1-2

The initial recovery phase after your procedures usually lasts 1-2 weeks. You’ll likely experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which you should be able to manage with the pain medication your doctor prescribes.

Make sure you follow your doctor’s instructions and wear any necessary compression garments. Avoid strenuous activities, but you can start taking short, easy walks to improve your circulation. You should notice swelling beginning to decrease by the end of the second week. 

Weeks 3-4

By the third week, your body should have adapted to the changes, and you can resume light activities such as going to work (if it’s a desk job) and driving. Avoid heavier activities such as laundry and lifting heavy items.

You’ll feel more energetic, but don’t overexert. Stay hydrated and eat a balanced, healthy diet to help your recovery. 

Weeks 5-6

You’ll start to feel significantly better and can begin incorporating low-impact exercise into your routines. You should also reintroduce stretching and strengthening exercises to get your muscles back to normal. If you’re still experiencing significant pain or new pain, consult with Dr. Watkins.

After six weeks, you should be able to completely return to your normal activities even as your body continues to heal over the next few months. To aid in long-term recovery, continue to eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water, avoid tobacco, follow a consistent exercise routine, and get plenty of rest.

Ready to get started? Our team at Frederick H Watkins, MD, is ready to help. To schedule an appointment, call our location nearest you today — Rockville, Maryland, or McLean, Virginia — or use our online scheduling tool anytime.