Three of the most popular plastic surgery procedures – breast augmentation, liposuction, and tummy tuck – are combined in a procedure known as a Mommy Makeover, an increasingly popular option for celebrities and regular moms looking to refresh their look.
“It’s understandable why these three procedures are so commonly chosen for a Mommy Makeover,” says Dr. Chang. “The breasts and stomach region change the most during and after pregnancy. The breasts typically increase in size during pregnancy. Then, after giving birth and nursing, women often lose volume and sometimes experience sagging. Breast augmentation and, in some cases, a breast lift, can correct those concerns.”
In addition, many women experience sagging stomach skin, lax abdominal muscles, and a stubborn tummy “pouch” as a result of their pregnancy. Depending on their concerns, women can often restore their pre-baby bodies with a tummy tuck and/or liposuction, according to Dr. Chang. “In the past, plastic surgeons usually recommended treating the breasts and the abdomen separately. As a result, busy moms had to plan for two separate surgeries and two separate recovery periods. Fortunately, for women today, combining breast enhancement with a body-contouring procedure has become a common practice. We now have the skills and experience to achieve beautiful results in a single surgery for a Mommy Makeover.”
Dr. Chang says that breast augmentation typically is chosen for the breast enhancement aspect of a Mommy Makeover. For the body-contouring aspect, either liposuction or a tummy tuck – or sometimes both, is generally selected.
“A tummy tuck is usually appropriate for patients who have excess skin and fat as well as lax muscles on their abdomen,” Dr. Chang explains. “For women who have specific areas of fat on their stomachs, hips, or other areas, however, liposuction is very versatile and can be highly effective.”
Author: Dr. Eric Chang
Few plastic surgeons offer Dr. Eric Chang’s rare blend of impressive credentials and genuine compassion. After becoming a board-certified plastic surgeon, he returned to his home state and established Columbia Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, one of the premier cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery practices between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore.
