By Dr. Darrick Antell
After pregnancy, childbirth, and nursing, undergoing a mommy makeover can be a transformative experience, restoring your confidence, energy, and quality of life. However, you may be unsure whether the procedure will be safe and beneficial for you if you are over 40.
Rest assured, a mommy makeover is a highly customizable procedure that can be tailored to your unique wishes and goals. Regardless of your age, it can help you achieve a more attractive, energized appearance and a significant boost in self-confidence. In this blog, Dr. Darrick Antell in New York, NY, explores the details of this gold-standard body sculpting solution, along with special considerations for older patients.
What Exactly Is a Mommy Makeover?
A mommy makeover is a combination procedure to address physical changes in multiple areas of the physique, including the breasts, hips, waist, and belly. Every mommy makeover is highly individualized, however, so you can choose the treatment options that make the most sense for you. The procedure will typically encompass the following aesthetic solutions:
- Breast surgery – The breasts change shape several times during a woman’s lifetime and significantly transform after childbirth and nursing. Whether you are unhappy with a loss of volume and shape in the chest or you are frustrated by overly large, pendulous breasts that cause discomfort and strain, strategic breast surgery can restore a balanced, feminine silhouette. Breast augmentation, mastopexy, and breast reduction are common options with a mommy makeover.
- Liposuction – Liposuction is a staple at cosmetic practices worldwide, thanks to its ability to streamline and sculpt areas hard-hit by stubborn, exercise-resistant fat. Performed on its own or in combination with other body contouring procedures, liposuction can be used to slim the upper arms, waist, buttocks, hips, thighs, stomach, and submental region. Moms who exercise and work out can take their appearance to the next level by incorporating liposuction into their treatment plan.
- Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) – By firming weak, separated stomach muscles and correcting the condition known as diastasis recti, a tummy tuck provides among the most profound improvements in the physique after pregnancy and childbirth. In addition, abdominoplasty trims loose, redundant skin folds and repositions the belly button in a more flattering location.
- Arm lift – While not “standard,” many patients choose to include an arm lift in their treatment plan, as it can expand clothing options and restore a taut, sculpted upper body profile. An arm lift corrects drooping skin and the condition known as “bat wings,” artfully contouring the upper arms to reflect a more youthful, attractive appearance.
- Facial rejuvenation – Non-surgical facial rejuvenation with dermal fillers and neuromodulators is also a popular add-on to a mommy makeover. These injectables can achieve a transformative “liquid” facelift, increasing your satisfaction with your new look after breast surgery, liposuction, and abdominoplasty.
Does Age Matter With a Mommy Makeover?
When it comes to cosmetic surgery in general, overall health and skin quality are often more critical factors than age alone. While it is common for women to choose a mommy makeover in their 20s and 30s, there is no reason why women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s can’t enjoy the same wonderful benefits, provided that they are free from contraindications.
Special Considerations for Older Women
While older women certainly make good candidates for a mommy makeover, there are certain factors that need to be considered as part of an in-depth consultation process. Before undergoing the procedure, the following factors should be assessed:
- Skin quality – As the skin ages, it loses elasticity. This is largely due to the body’s diminishing output of vital compounds like hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin. Your skin quality may impact your final results; however, with today’s advanced technology and numerous skin-tightening options, a skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Antell in NYC can still deliver stunning results.
- Health – Your health is a crucial variable in the candidacy formula. As you age, your surgical risks increase, especially if there are any underlying medical issues present, such as heart problems, diabetes, or hypertension. It will be critical to receive medical clearance for a mommy makeover, and multiple tests may be required to ensure your safety. As long as no contraindications are present and you have a clean bill of health, you will likely qualify for a mommy makeover.
- Recovery – Older patients sometimes need longer healing periods than younger ones. For this reason, it is essential that older women undergoing a mommy makeover have realistic expectations for downtime and don’t push themselves to be up and about too early. It is important to surround yourself with help while you heal, so don’t hesitate to book assistance far in advance for chores, childcare, pet care, etc.
What Are the Benefits of a Mommy Makeover?
Regardless of your age, a mommy makeover brings with it an abundance of life-changing benefits. It can reignite your self-confidence, help you get more out of your workouts, and allow you to start enjoying all your favorite outfits again, from swimwear and lingerie to tops, dresses, shorts, and jeans. Drooping, loose skin and excess stubborn fat will become a thing of the past. Most importantly, you will enjoy a more positive self-image, feeling more empowered and secure every time you look in the mirror.
Ready to Learn More About a Mommy Makeover in New York City? Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Antell Today!
If you are excited by the idea of pursuing a mommy makeover but aren’t sure if you qualify, contact our friendly, knowledgeable team today to set up a private consultation with Dr. Antell, recognized as a “Top Plastic Surgeon in NYC” by Harper’s Bazaar, Town and Country, Vogue, New York Magazine, and Castle Connolly. Dr. Antell specializes in body sculpting and delivers the natural-looking, elegant results you have always envisioned for yourself. Call today to get started!