Mummy Makeover Recovery & Aftercare Tips

How Long Are Recovery Times for Mummy Makeover?

Recovery times for mummy makeovers vary and there is no one size fits all answer to how long it will take.

The main influencing factor for this is the specific combination of procedures performed in the mommy makeover procedure. Some combinations will require a longer recovery period than others due to variations in the extent of surgery and the number of areas of the body being treated.

The staging of the surgeries also has an impact, with recovery times more gradual if staged but taking place over a longer period of time and recoveries shorter but more intense if the combination takes place during a single surgery. A patient's underlying health is also a significant factor in their individual healing profile.

Some combinations generally have shorter recovery periods to others such as those that combine two relatively straightforward procedures such as a breast augmentation and liposuction. Equally, others are known to have longer recovery times, such as those that combine two slightly larger standalone surgeries, such as tummy tuck and breast reduction.

Recovery times should take no less than 6 weeks and no more than 8 weeks.

Mummy Makeover Recovery Timeline

Although it is not possible to provide a standard definition of a mummy makeover timeline given the variations in this procedure category, a typical mummy makeover timeline could look like this:

Week 1

You are currently in the immediate recovery phase after surgery and a key phase of downtime. You may well be in some discomfort, with visible swelling and bruising. Your main priority is to rest and follow all post operative instructions from your surgeon and take your prescribed pain medication. As the days pass, you should experience a gradual improvement in your discomfort and swelling, but you must continue to restrict your daily activities. Exercise and heavy lifting are off limits in particular.

Week 2

Your early stage recovery continues, and by now, you will have been into the clinic to have your incisions and dressings reviewed by your post-operative nurse. You will still need to wear the compression garments provided, but your swelling and bruising will continue to subside. Light activities may be resumed.

Week 3 to 4

This is a transitional phase in which light activities begin to become the norm and your pain should have subsided. Some patients may return to work, depending on the nature of their job. Most patients with desk jobs will have returned to work by now and your surgeon will be encouraging you to start thinking about resuming normal life.

Week 4 to 8

By now, you will have resumed normal daily activities, and your swelling and bruising will have subsided. You can now think about resuming more strenuous activities and physical exercise. You will come in again to see your surgeon to check in on your progress, with a particular focus on your incision healing and scar formation. At this point, you may start a scar management programme to encourage the very best healing.

Week 8 – 12

Scars begin to mature and results begin to emerge.

3 months and beyond

By now, your final results are becoming fully apparent, and your scars are continuing to mature. You can return to a full exercise routine and begin to enjoy your new shape.

What Can I Do to Improve Recovery for a Mommy Makeover?

Our clinicians advise that the best method for improving recovery is to properly prepare your mind and body before surgery and make sure you are in the best possible place to enjoy a smooth recovery after surgery.

Good overall health contributes to a faster recovery, so we recommend the following preoperatively:

Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated and arrive for your surgery in good shape
Stop smoking if you smoke as this can impair circulation and harm your healing
Stay active, as cardiovascular health is correlated with stronger, faster recovery
Engage a support network of friends and family to help you and provide assistance in the early days when your movement is restricted and physical discomfort will be at its peak
Prepare your home to minimise movement and ensure you will be as comfortable as you possibly can be. Also make sure you are stocked up on key supplies including food and medication
Get fully informed so you know what to expect postoperatively and fully understand what is needed for your recovery

What Are the Best Mummy Makeover Aftercare Top Tips?

The best mummy makeover aftercare involves the adoption of the very best postoperative behaviours.

Some top post mummy makeover care tips include:

Rest and Allow Time for Recovery: rest is the priority in the early days after surgery and you must be patient to allow time for your body to recover and heal.
Physical stress is to be avoided and a restricted regime to be embraced
Watch what you Consume: stay hydrated and eat nutritious foods. Limit alcohol, and do not smoke if you can
Stay Alert and Watch your Body: make sure to listen to your body and monitor for any signs of complications. Open communication channels with your 24 hour support team and surgeon are key, and will provide peace of mind
Follow the Instructions: take your pain medications as scheduled and follow all post op instructions. Look after your incisions and keep them clean. Avoid movement of your wounds where possible
Celebrate the Wins: your results will begin to reveal themselves slowly but surely during the recovery timeline. Make sure to recognise the positive progress, and enjoy your new body shape

Frequently Asked Questions

When Should I Seek Medical Assistance After a Mummy Makeover?

You should expect a smooth recovery, but it is important to stay vigilant, and if you spot any symptoms from excessive bleeding to infection, unusual swelling or bruising, or you are in severe pain or discomfort, you should contact your nursing team or consultant immediately.

Likewise, any breathing difficulties, persistent nausea or changes in temperature or urination should be reported immediately.

We offer a 24/7 support line at the Cadogan Clinic for any question or query, big or small, during recovery.

How Painful is a Mummy Makeover?

As with any surgery, you should expect a degree of physical discomfort in the immediate recovery phase. You should not expect excessive pain at any point during your recovery and your surgeon will closely plan and monitor your pain management during this preliminary phase.

Pain thresholds do vary however as does the diligence of post operative care. Make sure to follow all instructions closely and stay in open communication with your nursing support team and consultant.

What Position Should I Sleep in After a Mummy Makeover?

There is no single advised position given the possible combination variations of the mummy makeover procedure, however the general rule is to avoid putting pressure on incisions and to try and stay elevated however you can. Staying comfortable and supported is also a priority.

How Soon Can I Work Out After a Mummy Makeover?

You should expect to work out no later than 6 – 8 weeks after your surgery, although this can vary depending on your healing progress. You should follow the instructions of your consultant and make sure your mummy makeover healing process is complete before resuming exercise activities.

A Word From Our Founder and Medical Director, Mr Bryan Mayou, World Renown Plastic Surgeon and Mummy Makeover Pioneer

"I love this procedure and the magical effect it can have on mothers and non-mothers alike seeking to transform their body shape. These patients are often among the most satisfied of all our cosmetic surgery patients. That said, the key to a great result is great aftercare and I always emphasise to my patients that this is a substantial procedure and it requires a substantial recovery. The results are undeniably worth it, but the most important thing is to be patient and take things slowly. These are a pivotal 8 weeks so take it week by week- you can enjoy your new body shape for ever thereafter."

Treatments mentioned in this article

Body Surgery

Extended Tummy Tuck

An Extended Tummy Tuck goes beyond the standard Tummy Tuck to remove fat from the abdominal region and the flanks.

Body Surgery

360 Liposuction

360 Liposuction is a surgical body contouring procedure that uses Liposuction to remove excess fat from the circumference of the torso.

Body Surgery

Liposuction

Liposuction is a surgical procedure to remove unwanted pockets of fat on the body and face.

Breast Surgery

Breast Enlargement