Mommy Makeover Recovery Time: What To Expect Week-by-Week (UPDATED 2024)

As a busy woman, you might be tempted to rush your mommy makeover recovery and return to your never-ending to-do list. However, it’s important to listen to your body and take time to heal, especially since a mommy makeover typically includes multiple breast and body contouring procedures. Following your plastic surgeon’s aftercare instructions is the best thing you can do for yourself.

This post will provide you with helpful information about mommy makeover recovery time and what you can expect week-by-week.

Week 1

The first few days after surgery are always the toughest, but preparing yourself helps. Make sure to fill your pain medication prescription before surgery so it’s available as needed. Your plastic surgeon will advise you to move around frequently (but gently!) to avoid blood clots.

You can’t drive for a couple of weeks, so stock enough groceries and other essentials before your procedure. Have a friend or family member help you around the house as you ease into your recovery. If you’ve combined procedures such as breast augmentation, breast lift, tummy tuck, or liposuction, wear your compression garment to minimize swelling and keep your breasts and abdomen stable.

Week 2 & 3

You will feel more like yourself during this time and may be able to transition to over-the-counter pain medications toward the end of week 2. Once you’re off prescription pain meds, you may feel ready to drive, although this will differ based on the individual. If you have a sedentary job, you can even return to work if you feel ready.  

Keep taking it easy during weeks 2 and 3, even though you might feel ready to get back to your normal routine. You won’t be ready for strenuous exercise yet, but focus on taking slow walks and engaging in gentle movement.

Week 4

During week 4 or 5, you might be able to reduce the amount of time you wear your compression garment, although some people appreciate the support it provides and choose to continue wearing it around the clock.

Bruising and swelling should be greatly reduced, and your mommy makeover results are apparent. Continue walking and gradually add more movement to your day, but pay attention to how your body feels and try not to overdo it. You will be glad to know you are on your way to a full recovery soon.

Week 6

After 6 weeks, you’re likely feeling great and ready to resume your usual workouts. You should see more of your results, and your body will keep improving in the coming weeks as residual swelling fades. This is the perfect time to start getting clothes that show off your new contours.

3 To 6 Months

You’re mostly healed from your procedure at this point. Your scars may still be raised and pink, but they will continue to fade and flatten throughout the first year after surgery. Silicone scar tape or gel typically helps scars heal.

Your Mommy Makeover Recovery Experience

Mommy makeover recovery can be challenging, but the more information you have, the better you can prepare yourself. Our experienced team helps you achieve a smooth recovery after a mommy makeover, as you can see in these mommy makeover before and after photos. Keep in mind that everyone’s recovery varies, and your rate of healing typically depends on the specific combination of mommy makeover procedures you choose.

To see how a mommy makeover can help you, request a consultation or call us at (512) 244-1439 to schedule an appointment.   

This blog post was originally published in April 2023 and updated in October 2024.