Mommy Makeovers are a Growing Trend

After having kids, have you found that your breasts have migrated south and your belly refuses to shrink? You're not alone. Many moms find it extremely difficult if not impossible to regain their pre-pregnancy bodies, despite the barrage of photos of celebrities strutting about in bikinis only 6 weeks postpartum. Pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding can do a real number on the size and shape of breasts in particular, while hormonal fluctuations can lead to fluid retention and fatty deposits that won't budge. Dieting and exercise alone won't get rid of a sagging stomach that's composed mainly of excess skin! As a result, more and more mothers are choosing to see a cosmetic surgeon for a full "mommy makeover," involving multiple surgeries to restore their breasts, stomach, and other problem areas.

Image Source: SergeMelki/Wikimedia Commons

Postpartum Trouble Spots

So why would women consider having a surgical makeover in the first place? The majority of women gain between 25 to 35 pounds during their pregnancy. This excess weight is stored as fatty tissue on areas like the buttocks, thighs, abdomen, hips, and breasts, and can be hard to shift after giving birth. Even as a woman loses weight, it may not be in equal proportions. The result could be small breasts and a thick belly, for example. As the baby grows, the abdomen must stretch to accommodate it, which can lead to abdominal muscles weakening and separating and causing stretch marks. After breastfeeding, breasts can also deflate, sag, and diminish in size.

Types of Procedures Involved

To combat these typical cosmetic problems, surgical procedures involved in a mommy makeover target the breasts and belly to restore a woman's body to her pre-pregnancy self. Procedures include breast augmentation, a breast life, a tummy tuck, liposuction, anda butt lift. The exact combination of these procedures would depend on the individual. Some women would prefer a natural breast lift, while others might want implants as well. These procedures can be performed all at once, or in several stages.

Are you a Good Candidate?

If you've plummeted from a C cup to an A cup and are feeling low about sagging skin and stubborn belly fat, you may be considering this type of procedure yourself. However, before you rush out to strut your stuff on Bondi Beach, cosmetic surgery isn't right for everyone. Before you undergo a mommy makeover, think about whether you plan to have more children or not. It doesn't make sense to tighten your muscles with a tummy tuck only to have them separate again! Similarly, if you're not finished with breastfeeding it's probably better to wait before having a breast augmentation, because increased blood vessel activity during nursing could lead to an infection. Finally, you may want to wait until your weight is under control for maximum results. Lose your baby weight first and you'll see more consistent, achievable results.

With the rise of social media, it seems like moms are feeling the pressure more than ever to retain their youthful looks. Postpartum cosmetic surgery is nothing new, but in recent years the mommy makeover has really made a comeback. With procedures now more technologically advanced and safer than ever, are you tempted?