Your Mommy Makeover: Before Surgery
Motherhood is inevitably going to change a woman’s body. For some women, the effects that pregnancy and breastfeeding have on the body are a source of frustration. Diet and exercise only go so far. Healthy habits cannot do anything for drooping or deflated breasts or separated abdominal muscles. This is why mommy makeover treatment is ideal for many women. If you’ve been considering how a mommy makeover could serve you but are hesitant because you’re unsure how to embark on this journey, tune in to this month’s blogs. Here, we offer a few ways that you can prepare for an ideal mommy makeover process.
The First Step Sets the Tone
A mommy makeover is a big deal. It is a protocol that needs to be customized to each patient. A skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon needs to be involved and invested from start to finish. Experts suggest that patients consult with at least two qualified surgeons before diving into the next steps of planning. The consultation visit should cover details including the desired outcome, expectations, motivations, and the experience of the surgeon. All of your questions should be answered and you must feel comfortable with the doctor before you decide to schedule surgery.
After Choosing your Surgeon
- Make the necessary changes. The first change that a patient may be asked to make is to quit smoking. Any form of nicotine use can diminish healing capacity. This is because nicotine constricts blood flow and the blood carries oxygen and vital nutrients to tissues after surgery. In addition to smoking, patients need to limit alcohol consumption and may need to switch or stop taking certain medications, vitamins, or supplements. Make sure your doctor is aware of all medications you are taking.
- Stock up the medicine cabinet and the refrigerator. The last thing you want is to be without your pain medication on the day of your surgery. Fill your prescription ahead of time and also purchase necessary supplies such as extra bandages, ointments, and compression garments. Your surgeon’s office will likely provide a list of supplies you may need so you can prepare ahead of time. In terms of stocking the kitchen, consider preparing healthy meals that can be heated when you cannot cook for yourself. An alternative may be to order in, providing there are healthy options that include fresh foods like vegetables and lean meat.
- Make preparations for recovery. In our next post, we will discuss what to expect during mommy makeover recovery. For now, we will only say that patients need to assemble the troops. Reliable help is needed to reduce the stress of recovery. Helpers may need to cook, pick kids up from school, babysit, pet sit, help you to the bathroom, bathe you, and give you your medicine. Everyone needs to be on board, including you.
Come back in a few weeks for our follow up blog discussing what to expect after a mommy makeover. If you’re ready to consult with one of the leading plastic surgeons in the San Jose area, call (408) 559-4700 now.