We often receive questions about mommy makeover scars during consultation appointments for this procedure. It’s a great question and one we welcome.
To help you understand what scars after mommy makeover procedures usually look like, we’ve created the guide below. You’ll learn where mommy makeover scars are typically located, what they usually look like, and how to care for them long-term to minimize their appearance.
Does Mommy Makeover Leave Scars?
Yes. Unfortunately, we have not yet created a method of performing mommy makeover surgery that does not involve making incisions. And where there are incisions, there will be scars.
The good news is that plastic surgeons do their utmost to ensure that their mommy makeover patients have minimal scarring and scarring that is well-hidden. The best surgeons will take extra measures to make each incision placement as discreet as possible so that visible scars are few and far between.
Where Are Mommy Makeover Scars Located?
This depends on what procedures you undergo and the specific techniques used for each procedure.
Tummy Tuck Scars
One tummy tuck incision is usually made within the navel, and another is made low on the abdomen, from hip to hip. Some patients who need tummy tucks may need a third incision from the navel down to the lower abdominal incision.
Breast Lift Scars
For your breast procedure, there are three options. First, some breast lifts only need an incision around the edge of each areola.
Other breast lift patients may need an additional incision from the edge of each areola down to the breast crease (inframammary fold). Finally, some patients will require a third additional incision along each breast crease to get rid of all the excess skin and breast tissue.
Breast Augmentation Scars
For breast implants, there are typically three incision placement options: around the areola (periareolar incision placement), in the breast crease (inframammary incision placement), or in the armpit crease (transaxillary incision placement).
Liposuction Scars
It’s relatively easy to minimize scars from liposuction because they are so small to begin with. Lipo scars are usually only small dots and are located near wherever liposuction is desired.
What Do Mommy Makeover Scars Look Like?
To get a good idea of what your mommy makeover scars might look like, we first recommend reviewing some pictures of mommy makeover before and after scars. You’ll be able to see the healing or healed scars and get a better idea of what you can expect.
Other than looking at photos, we can tell you that most mommy makeover scars follow the same progression of appearance: They are pink or red and slightly lifted right after surgery and become flatter and more faded as time goes on.
After six months to a year or more, you should see your scars settle down to a flat and completely faded pigment. Of course, this does depend on how well you handled the recovery period, what your skin type is, and whether you employed scar treatments.
Keep in mind that some unfortunate patients may develop keloid scars or hypertrophic scars. This occurrence is rare and sometimes cannot be helped, but there are treatments and therapies that can provide solutions. Open communication with a skilled plastic surgeon is key.
Tips for Minimizing Scars After Mommy Makeover Surgery
Here are some tips for minimizing the appearance of your scars after mommy makeover surgery.
- Rest and relax. Wounds heal faster when you prioritize your recovery and get plenty of rest and sleep.
- Follow your surgeon’s recovery instructions. Do not stray from what your surgeon tells you to do during recovery. Following their directions will ensure your incisions heal well.
- Stay hydrated. Keep your skin soft, hydrated, and supple by drinking plenty of water.
- Use silicone. Silicone sheets and gel serums can make scars soften and fade better.
- Stay out of the sun. Sun exposure may lead to hyperpigmentation of your scars.
- Give it time. It may take a year or more to see your complete results after mommy makeover surgery.
FAQ: Recovery and Scars From Mommy Makeover Surgery
What is included in a mommy makeover?
Mommy makeover procedures typically include any or all of the following: tummy tuck surgery, liposuction, breast lift surgery, breast augmentation surgery, or BBL (Brazilian butt lift) surgery. It really depends on what you are looking for in terms of results.
What is the best scar treatment for mommy makeover surgery?
After your mommy makeover recovery period, silicone gel sheets and regular massage can often help to reduce the appearance of scars. Remember, however, that you must consult with your surgeon first for personalized recommendations. There is a time and a place for each of these scar solutions.
How much weight is typically lost with a mommy makeover?
Mommy makeovers are not weight loss procedures. The goal is to help restore a woman’s pre-pregnancy body. While fat loss can be an indirect result of procedures like liposuction or tummy tuck surgery, the overall aims are more about lifting, tightening, and contouring.
What does a tummy tuck look like after 10 years?
Your tummy tuck results should last for many years (10 or more in most cases). But remember that your appearance can change due to factors like aging and lifestyle. Some patients may opt for a touch-up procedure in the future, if desired.
How much does a mommy makeover cost?
The cost of a mommy makeover varies based on the specific procedures involved, your surgeon’s fees, hospital or surgical facility charges, and geographic location. Many considerations must be made to come up with an accurate estimate.
For this reason, always schedule a consultation first if mommy makeover price is a main concern. You’ll get a more accurate quote by meeting directly with your surgeon.
Request a Consultation Appointment with Dr. Smita
Choosing to undergo mommy makeover surgery is a big decision. Because this surgery incorporates multiple procedures at once, it can cost more, it comes with more risks, and the recovery is typically longer.
You need to know that you’re ready to take the next step before moving forward, and the best place to start is with a consultation appointment. Consultation appointments are required for all plastic surgery procedures. It’s a time where you can meet your plastic surgeon, talk about your goals, undergo a short physical exam, and create a plan of action.
Experienced female board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Smita Ramanadham can help you navigate your mommy makeover before and after at her New Jersey practice. Please call to set up your consultation appointment with Dr. Smita and begin your journey toward the new you today.
References
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/five-things-you-need-to-know-about-a-mommy-makeover