Mommy makeover is a major
plastic surgery, usually involving multiple procedures. Therefore, the recovery process can take several days. The initial recovery period for this
cosmetic surgery may range between two and three weeks, depending on a particular patient’s ability to heal and other factors. As an experienced
plastic surgeon,
Dr. Hisham Seify discusses the recovery period with his patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and surrounding communities during the initial consultation.
Overall Recovery Process
The
cosmetic surgeon will advise the patient to remain confined at home for the first 10 to 14 days, depending on how fast the healing occurs. Mild to moderate bruising and swelling should be expected during this period, which will subside to a large extent by the end of the third week. However, the complete resolution of swelling may take several months. Patients should follow the surgeon’s guidelines for a safer and faster recovery. The
plastic surgeon will also discuss the possible scarring with patient. For the first two months, the scars will appear red as the healing process occurs. Over the next several weeks, the redness of the scars will reduce and they will appear progressively thinner. Complete scar maturation may take more than a year.
Taking Care of the Kids
The patient should preferably have someone available to look after little kids at least for the first two to three weeks. The patient should avoid lifting the baby or any other significant weights in this period. If a family member is not available to take care of the children, the patient may consider hiring a temporary nanny or a babysitter.
Household Chores
For the first three to five days after the
cosmetic surgery, the patient should avoid doing any significant home tasks. The patient will tire very quickly during this period, so she should be mentally prepared for this. Elbows should be kept closer to the body, and movements above shoulder level should be avoided as that can irritate the breast muscles. Activities such as laundry and vacuum should be avoided for at least one month because these will involve bending at the waist or twisting the abdomen.
Office Job
The progress for each patient will differ in mommy makeover
plastic surgery. On average, it may take about three months to recover full strength and energy levels. For office jobs that involve sitting, the patient can expect to be back to work within two weeks. However, if the job involves considerably physical movements and strain, it may take about a month to return to work.
Driving
Most patients will be able to begin driving in about a week to 10 days when they feel their reflexes and overall strength are adequate. However, if the patient is taking pain medications that can induce sleep, driving should be avoided.
Exercise and Fitness
The simple rule to follow is that if there is pain, the exercise must be stopped. Most patients can begin walking within a few hours after the surgery. Exercises such as brisk walking and using stationary bike can be started within a week.
See more procedures and treatments by plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify in Newport Beach | Orange County 
