Post pregnancy procedures designed to reclaim your pre-pregnancy body are  dubbed as “mummy makeovers” and are typically a combination of a tummy tuck, breast lift and breast augmentation – and they are becoming more popular.

A survey released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons concluded that if cost were not an issue, 62% of mothers said that they would consider a “mummy makeover”. The most common concerns of some of Dr Eddy Dona’s patients include lack of breast volume, stretch marks, loose skin around the abdomen and excess fat.

YOUR CONSULTATION WITH DR DONA

In your first visit you will be able to discuss your concerns and desires with Dr Eddy Dona. Dr Dona will perform a physical examination to assess and advise you on your options, taking into consideration your desires and expectations. You’ll also get the opportunity to discuss with Dr Dona any questions you have in relation to your procedure.

CHANGES TO YOUR BODY BECAUSE OF PREGNANCY

Abdomen – Changes to the body include the stretching apart and elongating of the vertical muscles of the abdominal wall and the overlying skin. The loosened muscles and often excessive stretch marks results in a “pouch” on the lower stomach that can’t be fixed with diet and exercise alone. Tummy tuck surgery is required to tighten up those muscles and remove that excess skin.

Small Breast Size – A common concern following breast feeding or weight loss is a reduction in the normal size of your breasts, resulting in a “deflated” look. A breast enlargement, also known as a breast augmentation, is often requested to restore breasts to their pre-pregnancy volume.

Sagging Breasts – Pregnancy and breast feeding typically causes significant changes in the size of the breasts. This sudden stretching of the breast skin, with the subsequent and inevitable loss of breast volume, typically causes the skin to stretch and the breasts to sag. No amount of exercise can re-tighten that skin or restore lost volume. A breast lift can help restore the breast shape and create a more youthful look.

Small Breast Size and Needing a Lift – A breast augmentation on its own will not correct breasts that have severely dropped and lost volume post pregnancy. Combining both a breast enlargement with a breast lift during the same operation is the ideal procedure to restore breasts to their former youthfulness.

Breasts – Pregnancy and breast feeding typically causes significant changes in the size of the breasts. This sudden stretching of the breast skin, with the subsequent and inevitable loss of breast volume, typically causes the skin to stretch and the breasts to sag. No amount of exercise can re-tighten that skin or restore lost volume.  A breast lift or mastopexy can be performed to remove the excess skin and “lift” the breasts to reduce the sagging.

Nipples and Areolars – Another common concern caused by pregnancy and breast feeding can be the change in the size and/or shape of the nipples. Some women’s nipples become larger in size, and more protuberant. Nipple reconstructive surgery can be performed to correct this. Additionally, the areolas can become much larger and darker.

Excess Fat – Liposuction can be performed on your legs, thighs, hips and abdomen. “Often, no matter how hard we work at it, fat will stubbornly remain in certain areas of your body”. Liposuction can assist in creating a more flattering version of your already wonderful self.

WHEN SHOULD IT BE DONE?

Post-pregnancy surgery should not be done until you have allowed time for your body to fully recover (3-6 months after breast feeding is ideal). It is important to diet and exercise to get back to your optimal pre-pregnancy weight.

WHO IS SUITABLE?

There are many factors to consider before undergoing surgery, such as your current health, the areas of your body you want to improve. The ideal candidate for a mummy makeover is someone that has lost weight after pregnancy but cannot get rid of stubborn areas of fat and or sagging skin.

PREPARATION FOR SURGERY

You will need to disclose your complete medical history to Dr Eddy Dona, including all health problems.

Do not take any blood thinning medications such as aspirin or any medicine containing aspirin, large amounts of vitamins or anti inflammatory drugs for 2 weeks prior to any surgery.

Do not smoke for at least 2 weeks prior to surgery, as smoking increases surgical and anaesthetic risks and can lead to serious complications.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING YOUR RECOVERY?

The recovery process will be dictated by the type of procedures that you require. This  information can be found in the relevant procedure pages on this website.

WHEN CAN YOU EXPECT THE FINAL RESULTS?

As per any surgery, expect to wait at least 3 months after your surgery before you can truly start to appreciate the new you..
Factors which may affect the longevity of your surgery include things such as future pregnancy, weight loss, weight gain, lifestyle, genetics and the normal process of ageing.

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS?

As with any surgery, there are always possible risks and potential complications. However, they are generally rare and if they occur are detected and managed during your post-operative follow-up. The possible complications will depend on exactly what procedures you have done. These details can be found in each relevant page on our website.