But these are major surgeries, and the combination makes for an involved recovery. Still, it’s just a single recovery rather than three separate recoveries. There are ways you can make your mommy makeover recovery go as well as possible. Dr. Yates will share some strategies with you during your consultation, but here are a few tips for this springy April blog for those considering coming to see us for a mommy makeover.
Heed Dr. Yates’s instructions
It’s always important to heed your surgeon’s post-surgery instructions, but a mommy makeover demands it. You can’t lift much for a period of time. Doing so can stretch and distort your incisions. You have to limit movement. You’ll need to wear your surgical support bra 24 hours a day. All of our instructions need to be religiously followed because they are meant to help you have the smoothest recovery.
Call in reinforcements
This is no time to be the lone ranger. For at least the first 48 hours (better yet the entire first week) you’ll need to have someone with you at your home. This is because you’re not going to be able to move much without help. It will be difficult to stand upright initially. Getting in and out of bed and getting dressed will be very hard without help. Optimum would be having someone there with you for the first 2-3 weeks, taking care of the kids, handling chores such as vacuuming and laundry, and cooking.
Walk
It may feel like the last thing you want to do, but moving your body is of paramount importance to prevent possible complications such as the formation of blood clots. You cannot do strenuous activity, but walking is important to help with the tummy tuck portion recovery. Dr. Yates will give you goals for how much time to walk each day.
Prepare your recovery area
Get your recovery area ready long before you head off for surgery. Fill your pain medication prescriptions and get your space ready. Lots of pillows and blankets. Lots of entertainment (but avoid anything that will make you laugh a lot). If you sleep upstairs, you’ll want to stay downstairs for at least the first week, as your tummy tuck will make stair climbing a no-no. Have a table within easy reach of your bed. You may want to invest in a toilet seat booster, to lessen the pressure of squatting. And you’ll need to be off work for two weeks, maybe more.
Don’t overdo things
This is a difficult recovery involving two major surgeries combined with liposuction. Don’t be a hero and brag about how you were up and about two days into it. All that will do is place unnecessary stress on your incisions and your repositioned muscles. That will increase your recovery pain and the duration of your recovery. Fully rest and allow yourself to heal properly. That way you will ensure the quickest recovery and the best ongoing results.
Mommy makeovers are very satisfying procedures for our patients from across the Salt Lake valley. If you’re interested, call Dr. Yates at (801) 525-8741 to schedule a consultation.