PROCEDURES

Tampa Mommy Makeover

Mommy makeover plastic surgery involves the correction of the unwanted changes that occur following child birth. During pregnancy, the abdominal wall undergoes significant and prolonged stretching. This may result in the presence of unattractive stretch marks, a rectus diastasis or separation of the abdominal muscles  and marked laxity of the abdominal skin.

Additionally, unwanted changes occur in the breasts as a result of breast feeding. Here the breasts are not only subjected to the physical demands of breast feeding itself, but also undergo significant volume changes. This can create a ptotic or sagging breast, a deflated breast that has lost its youthful volume, and produce asymmetry or an uneven appearance of the breasts, particularly in cases where a child preferentially nurses on one side.

The classic mommy makeover package therefore includes a combination of a breast and abdominal procedure. An abdominoplasty or tummy tuck is performed to improve the appearance of the abdomen, while a mastopexy or breast lift is performed for the breasts. A breast implant may or may not be needed depending on the amount of native breast tissue still present.

It is important to know that the Mommy Makeover procedure is not a weight loss tool. Checking your BMI or Body Mass Index prior to consultation is important to help determine your candidacy for Mommy Makeover surgery. We have included a link to the National Institutes of Health BMI Calculator so patients may calculate their exact BMI.

If the BMI is between 18 and 25, this is the ideal weight range and these patients will benefit most from a Mommy Makeover. If the BMI is between 25 and 30, this is in the overweight range and what Dr. Fakhre considers to be the gray area. Some of these patients will benefit from Mommy Makeover Surgery while others will need to lose more weight. This is determined on a case by case basis following Dr. Fakhre's examination. Finally in patients whose BMI is over 30, this is considered the obese range and these patients should lose weight prior to surgery. This is helpful to not only minimize the risk of complications but also to allow for the best result possible.

Reasons for Considering a Mommy Makeover in Tampa:

• Sagging and deflated breasts which have lost their youthful appearance
• Presence of unsightly stretch marks as well as loose and flabby skin on the abdomen
• Loose and bulging abdominal wall that persists despite diet and exercise (due to a rectus diastasis)

The Mommy Makeover Procedure

Every mommy makeover patient is unique and as such, the specific procedures selected vary. At New Tampa Plastic Surgery we offer a variety of breast and abdominal procedures that help correct the unwanted changes that occur following childbirth. Dr. Fakhre will help create a personalized treatment plan that best achieves your goals.

The mommy makeover breast lift elevates the nipple and areola to a more youthful position with the use of incisions that surround the nipple and may extend vertically down from the nipple and/or continue along the inframammary fold. The extent of the incisions is determined by the amount of skin laxity present as well as the distance of lift required. Frequently a breast augmentation is also performed to restore volume and further improve the contour of the breasts. 

The abdominal portion of the mommy makeover can range from a mini abdominoplasty or tummy tuck to a full abdominoplasty. In a mini tummy tuck, the incision is placed low on the abdomen and does not involve any incision to or movement of the belly button. A full tummy tuck will require this additional incision around the umbilicus as well as a longer transverse abdominal incision.

The type of abdominal procedure selected depends on the amount of skin excess present. Liposuction is frequently performed in conjunction with the abdominal procedure, to better contour the hips and waists for ideal results. Drains may be left in place following this procedure, depending on the extent of the dissection performed.

Mommy makeover surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and may last anywhere from three to five hours depending on the procedures performed. Patients are typically discharged home later the same day following the procedure. If drains are placed, they are usually removed about a week after surgery.

Recovery following Mommy Makeover Surgery

The recovery after Mommy Makeover is generally more involved than most procedures because both the breasts and abdomen undergo a surgical procedure. Patient's will need to plan on having a friend or loved one available to help them for the first few days after surgery. In most cases a restful week off of work is necessary to allow for an appropriate recovery. Some patients may consider taking additional time off depending on their line of work.

Dr. Fakhre will usually place a specialized bandage around the breasts and a compression binder around your abdomen after surgery. The breast dressing is typically exchanged for a supprotive sports bra shortly after surgery, while the abdominal binder is usually worn for a month. The scars resulting from these procedures are permanent but carefully placed by Dr. Fakhre so as to minimize their visibility.

Patients will have pain following this procedure, however the pain is usually well controlled with oral pain medications. You will be given a thorough postoperative instruction sheet written by Dr. Fakhre. Following these instructions will help reduce the risk of complications after surgery.

To find out if you'd be a good candidate for a mommy makeover in Tampa and Wesley Chapel, Florida, schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Fakhre, your Tampa and Wesley Chapel Plastic Surgeon, at 813-PLASTIC (752-7842).

Click here to see Dr. Fakhre's Wesley Chapel and Tampa Mommy Makeover Before and After Photos.