The mommy makeover is one of today's most popular combination plastic surgery techniques, designed specifically to address common issues faced by women who have been through pregnancy and breastfeeding.

The components of a mommy makeover

As the breasts and abdomen are the primary areas of change with motherhood, a mommy makeover will often centre around a breast and abdomen procedure. During pregnancy and breast-feeding, the breasts will also enlarge, increasing as much as a full cup size or more. However, returning back to 'normal' can mean a significant loss in breast volume and noticeable sagging. Throughout a pregnancy, the abdominal muscles, skin and tissues stretch to safely accommodate the growing baby. Unfortunately, after childbirth, these layers may not bounce back to their taut, pre-baby shape.

Your mommy makeover may include:

• Breast Augmentation

• Breast Lift

• Breast Reduction

• Tummy Tuck

• Circumferential Abdominoplasty

• Liposuction

Before undergoing surgery, it is important that you:

-Be as fit as possible to help the recovery process

• Reach your optimal weight

• Check with your surgeon about your medications as some may need to be stopped

• Stop smoking

• You will also be asked to provide a complete medical history for your Specialist Plastic Surgeon including any health problems you have had, any medication you are taking or have taken, and any allergies you may have.

• You may be advised to stop taking certain medicines such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, and medicines that contain aspirin. You may also be asked to stop taking naturopathic substances such as garlic, ginkgo, ginseng and St John’s Wort as they may affect clotting and anaesthesia. Always tell your surgeon EVERYTHING you are taking.

• You may be given medicines to take before the surgery, such as antibiotics.
  If you decide to have breast lift surgery, your surgeon will ask you to sign a consent form. Make sure you read the consent form carefully before signing. If you have any questions, ask your surgeon.

Unless your surgeon advises differently, you will be able to continue taking most medicines that you have been taking.

Your surgeon will advise you if any other tests are required, such as blood tests, X-ray examinations or an Electrocardiograph (ECG) to assess your heart.

Prepare a “recovery area” in your home. This may include pillows, ice packs, a thermometer and a telephone within easy reach. Make sure you arrange for a relative or friend to drive you to and from the hospital or clinic. Someone should also stay with you for at least 24 hours after you return home.

Your surgeon should give detailed preoperative instructions. Follow them carefully.

Cost is always a consideration in elective surgery. Prices for individual procedures can vary widely between Specialist Plastic Surgeons. Some factors that may influence the cost include the surgeon’s experience, the type of procedure used and the geographic location of the office.

Costs associated with the procedure may include:

• Surgeon’s fee

• Hospital or surgical facility costs

• Anaesthesia fees

• Prescriptions for medication

• Post-surgery garments

• Medical tests

• Your surgeon should welcome any questions you may have regarding