Myth busted: you don’t have to be a mom to have a Mommy Makeover. Lots of women have more than one area of their body they’d like to improve or rejuvenate. So, while every cosmetic surgery is custom-tailored for each patient, a Mommy Makeover takes that to the next level, allowing you to combine two or more procedures to produce the overall results you want to see.
A Mommy Makeover can address concerns about your breasts, your abdomen, your vaginal area, and the overall shape of your body. You’ll undoubtedly have lots of questions to ask when you meet with your prospective cosmetic surgeon. This is your chance to learn more about the surgical options and results you can realistically expect. It’s also a chance to evaluate the surgeon and their team, because their knowledge, experience and demeanor will affect your Mommy Makeover.
But what should you ask at your Mommy Makeover consultation? Keep in mind that there is no such thing as a “dumb” question!
Are you a board-certified surgeon?
If you didn’t take note of this ahead of time, be sure to ask if the surgeon is board certified during your consultation. You want a cosmetic surgeon who is knowledgeable, highly-skilled, and experienced. Board certification verifies their training through stringent written and oral testing. Board certified surgeons follow the highest ethical standards and the latest trends and techniques in their specialty. Dr. Brady Harris is triple board certified in general surgery, cosmetic surgery, and facial cosmetic surgery.
What is your experience with each of the Mommy Makeover procedures?
Board certification is a very good sign, but you’ll want to focus on skill and experience, too. This is where cosmetic surgeons can differ greatly. Repeated, recent and successful experience in specific procedures builds skill, and an artistic eye enables the surgeon to enhance body sculpting. Request to review before and after images together so that he or she can explain what you’re seeing. Pay attention to the volume of images offered as that will provide a clue as to how much experience the surgeon has.
Also, remember to ask if it is realistic to undergo all of the procedures you want at the same time.
What do the procedures involve?
The surgeon should describe in detail each procedure you are considering. Cosmetic surgeons approach their work somewhat differently and may use different techniques, and this is something you want to consider if you’re comparing practices.
Am I a good candidate?
Your research and the desired changes you want to make will give you a general idea if a Mommy Makeover is right for you. But your surgeon will want to discuss your medical history and goals and examine your body to determine if you’re a good candidate and recommend the best procedures for you.
Where will the surgery take place?
Will you go to a hospital, or an outpatient surgery center? Ask about facility accreditation, because this ensures they are fully equipped in case of an emergency, their staff are highly trained, and they follow the strictest sanitation protocols. If you choose Image Surgical Arts, you won’t have to ask this question because your surgery will be performed in our own onsite state-of-the-art, accredited surgical center. We are proud to offer our patients a high level of privacy, comfort, and safety in our surgery center.
Is a Mommy Makeover safe?
Every surgery involves certain risks and potential side effects. Since Mommy Makeover involves two or more surgeries, there may be additional considerations – but maybe not. Your health and safety are paramount, so expect the surgeon to explain all the risks and possible complications, even if they are very rare. Having all the information you need is vital to make a decision that makes you confident and comfortable.
How long will my recovery take – and what about results?
Research can give you a very good idea how long your recovery might take and what you will or won’t be able to do. But you and your Mommy Makeover will be unique, so ask as many questions as you have about preparing for and recovering from your surgery. How long will you need to be off work or restricted from other activities? What about pain management? Will you be able to exercise? The more you know, the better you can plan ahead to recover faster and more comfortably. Before you go home from your surgery, you will receive detailed written instructions to help ensure a successful recovery.
And, of course, ask about results! This is the whole point. Hopefully, you’ve reviewed numerous before and after photos of women who have had a Mommy Makeover that includes the procedures you’re considering. You’ve probably seen photos of this surgeon’s own patients. Now, you want to see more of their photos because their skill and artistry will determine your results.
Will I have scars?
Incisions always leave scars. How many you have, and where they are located, depends on the surgical procedures you choose. Top cosmetic surgeons always go the extra mile to ensure incisions are as small as possible and that they are located where they are unlikely to be seen, but you may still have visible scars. Ask to see drawings or close-up photos of past patients.
How much does it cost?
Every surgery is unique and several factors affect the total. For a Mommy Makeover, those factors include which specific procedures you choose. At Image Surgical Arts, we always give patients an all-inclusive estimate before you leave your consultation. If you’re considering other cosmetic surgeons, be absolutely certain their estimates are also all-inclusive so you aren’t misled by apparent cost differences. Look for surgeon’s fees, anesthesia charges, and post-surgery compression garments.
We understand that a Mommy Makeover can be expensive, so we can also direct you to financing options.
Before you leave, ask yourself:
- Did I get complete, satisfactory answers to all my questions?
- Do I feel confident with this surgeon’s skill, experience and approach?
- Do the surgeon and other team members treat me as a unique individual, not just the next patient?
- Does the clinic feel welcoming and comfortable when I visit?
A successful consultation will provide you with all the information you need to confidently decide whether to move forward with a Mommy Makeover and which cosmetic surgeon is your best partner in achieving the results you desire.
