Medical description
The mommy makeover refers to a combination of procedures designed to correct the changes to the body after one or more pregnancies and breastfeeding. It most often combines a tummy tuck, breast surgery (lift, augmentation or both) and liposuction of resistant areas, but each programme is personalised. Combining these procedures under a single anaesthetic generally allows a single recovery period, but the operation is longer and the recovery more demanding than for a single procedure. For safety reasons, the surgeon may suggest dividing the procedures into two stages. The content of the programme is defined after examination, taking into account your health and your priorities.
What the procedure can correct
- Laxity of the abdominal skin and muscles
- Deflated or sagging breasts after breastfeeding
- Stubborn fat deposits after pregnancies
- Rectus diastasis
- Stretch marks on the lower abdomen
- Figure changed by pregnancies
The ideal candidate
A woman in good health who has completed her family, stopped breastfeeding several months ago and whose weight is stable. Good physical condition is important, as the operation is long and the recovery requires organisation, particularly for childcare. Stopping smoking is imperative, and expectations should remain realistic.
The technique
The surgeon determines the order and combination of procedures according to a personalised surgical plan. The tummy tuck uses a low horizontal incision and an incision around the navel, with muscle repair if necessary; breast surgery uses incisions around the areola, vertical or in an inverted T depending on the degree of sagging, with or without implants; liposuction is performed through small, discreet incisions. Everything is carried out under general anaesthesia. An abdominal binder and a support bra are worn for several weeks, and drains may be left in for a few days.
Your stay, step by step
- 1
Arrival and consultation
Welcome by your coordinator, examination and pre-operative consultation with the practitioner, who confirms the treatment plan.
- 2
Procedure
General · 4–6 h
- 3
Monitoring in the clinic
Hospital stay: 2–3 nights. The care team looks after your comfort and post-operative monitoring.
- 4
Check-up before departure
Follow-up visit, care, instructions and prescription before your flight home. Recommended stay: 12–14 days.
- 5
Remote follow-up
Back home, you send your photos and stay in touch with the practitioner through your patient area, for up to 12 months.
Risks and recovery
The after-effects are those of each procedure combined: pain, abdominal tightness, swelling, bruising and marked fatigue in the first few weeks. A longer operation increases certain risks, in particular venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, for which preventive measures are put in place. Haematoma, seroma, infection, healing problems, complications related to breast implants or asymmetry may also occur. Your surgeon will explain these in detail during the consultation.
The information on this page is provided for guidance only and does not replace a medical consultation. Every procedure carries risks; the indication is made by the practitioner after examination, and results vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
Does everything have to be done in a single operation?
Not necessarily. Depending on the planned duration, your health and the extent of the corrections, the surgeon may prefer to carry out the procedures in two stages, several months apart, to limit the risks.
How long should I wait after giving birth?
It is generally advisable to wait at least six months after giving birth and after stopping breastfeeding, with a stable weight. This period allows the breasts and abdominal wall to return to a stable state before assessment.
Will I be able to look after my children after the operation?
You should avoid lifting anything heavy, including a young child, for several weeks. It is therefore important to arrange help at home during your recovery.
