Mummy Makeover
A mummy makeover refers to a combination of procedures designed to rejuvenate the abdomen and breasts after pregnancy. For most women, this means an abdominoplasty (Tummy tuck) and mastopexy (breast lift) with or without breast implants. The procedure can sometimes be done during one surgery. Other times it is best to break the procedure up over more than one day. The patient’s body type and overall health helps us determine the best approach.
Some possible complications and risks associated with mummy makeover surgery may include:
BREAST COMPONENT
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Altered sensation to the breast or nipple
- Firmness
- Slow healing
- Scarring
ABDOMEN COMPONENT
- Infection of the wound
- Bleeding
- Incision site pain
- Skin/flap/umbilicus loss requiring a skin graft
- Seroma (excessive accumulation of fluid) may occur under the incision site
- Temporary or permanent numbness of the incision site and surrounds
- Hypertrophic and keloid scars.
Who is a good candidate for a mummy makeover?
- Your weight has to be stable for a duration of at least 3 months prior to surgery
- You are no longer breast feeding and this has been stopped for at least 3 months prior to surgery
- You must not smoke or use any nicotine products for at least 6 weeks prior and 6 weeks after surgery.
How quickly will I recover from a mummy makeover?
While recovery time will vary from patient to patient based on the extent of surgery undertaken, you should plan for the following:
- A minimum 2-3 weeks off work
- No driving for 2-3 weeks
- No heavy lifting for 6 weeks
- If you have young children, then you will need support in caring for them for at least the first three weeks after surgery.
How much pain will I be in after surgery?
The operation will be performed under general anaesthetic and you can expect to stay in hospital for one to three days. There is usually minimal to no discomfort from the breast surgery while there is a mild degree of discomfort in the early post-operative period with the abdominal component. This is easily controlled by intravenous medications prescribed by your anaesthetist. You will be quickly changed to oral analgesia.
Important note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
