Mommy Makeover Recovery Timeline: What to Expect After Surgery

Dr. Sean Hill

A mommy makeover is an exciting journey toward regaining your pre-pregnancy body, but recovery is a crucial part of the process. Understanding the timeline will help you prepare mentally and physically, ensuring a smoother healing experience. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect in the weeks following your mommy makeover.

Day 1-3: The Immediate Post-Surgery Period

What to Expect:

  • You’ll wake up from surgery feeling groggy and sore. Pain, swelling, and bruising are normal.
  • Drain tubes may be placed to remove excess fluid, depending on your procedures.
  • Movement will be difficult, especially if you had a tummy tuck.
  • You’ll need someone to drive you home and assist with basic tasks.

Tips for Recovery:

✅ Take prescribed pain medications as directed.
✅ Sleep in a reclined position to reduce strain on your incisions.
✅ Walk short distances (with assistance) to prevent blood clots.

Week 1: Managing Discomfort & Resting

What to Expect:

  • Pain and swelling will peak during this week.
  • Compression garments are required to minimize swelling and support healing.
  • You may feel fatigued, but rest is essential.
  • Avoid lifting anything heavier than a gallon of milk.

Tips for Recovery:

✅ Stay hydrated and eat protein-rich foods to aid healing.
✅ Follow all post-op care instructions, including drain management (if applicable).
✅ Take short walks to promote circulation but avoid strenuous activity.

Weeks 2-3: Gradual Improvement

What to Expect:

  • Swelling and bruising will begin to subside.
  • You’ll feel more mobile but still need to avoid lifting or strenuous movements.
  • Stitches or drains may be removed at your follow-up appointment.
  • Some numbness or tightness in the treated areas is normal.

Tips for Recovery:

✅ Continue wearing your compression garment as instructed.
✅ Ease back into daily activities but listen to your body.
✅ Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress.

Weeks 4-6: Feeling More Like Yourself

What to Expect:

  • Most swelling will have decreased, though some residual swelling may last for months.
  • You can likely return to work (if it’s not physically demanding).
  • Light exercise, such as walking, can be increased.
  • Scars will still appear red but will start to fade over time.

Tips for Recovery:

✅ Ask your surgeon when you can resume more intense workouts.
✅ Continue using scar treatments (silicone gels or sheets) as recommended.
✅ Be patient—final results are still developing!

Months 3-6: Seeing Results Take Shape

What to Expect:

  • Your body will feel much stronger, and swelling will continue to decrease.
  • Results will become more visible as the skin and tissues settle.
  • Scars will gradually fade but may still be noticeable.

Tips for Recovery:

✅ Maintain a healthy lifestyle to preserve your results.
✅ Stay consistent with scar care and sun protection.
✅ Celebrate your progress—you’ve come a long way!

Month 6 and Beyond: Enjoying Your Transformation

By six months to a year, your final results will be more apparent. Swelling should be minimal, scars will continue fading, and you’ll feel more confident in your new body. This is when all the patience and self-care pay off!

Mommy Makeover
 Before & After Photos

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Recovery from a mommy makeover requires time, patience, and proper care. Following your surgeon’s guidelines and prioritizing self-care will ensure the best possible results. If you’re considering this transformative procedure, make sure to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations.

Would you like a more personalized recovery guide? Call (214) 937-4879 or request a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Sean Hill.

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