A mommy makeover is a customized combination of surgeries designed to address the specific concerns you have about your post-baby body. The level of personalization is what makes a mommy makeover so unique. The procedures you choose to include will look different from someone else’s because your body and your goals are different from theirs.

At The Swan Center for Plastic Surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeons have helped thousands of Atlanta-area moms feel confident again. Let’s talk about what a mommy makeover could look like for you.

How Your Mommy Makeover Gets Built

What bothers you most when you look in the mirror? 

That’s where your surgeon will start.

During your consultation, your plastic surgeon will ask you to describe your concerns, your preferences, and your goals. This is how we get to know you and how you get to know us. Every great relationship starts with honesty, after all.

Once your surgeon understands what you’re looking for and what your starting point is, they’ll recommend a combination of procedures designed around your needs. Some women desire extensive work in multiple areas. Others have one primary concern they want addressed. There’s no right or wrong approach because there’s no standard package. Your mommy makeover plan is designed around you.

Choosing Your Mommy Makeover Procedures

When Your Breasts Have Lost Volume or Changed Shape

Breastfeeding can be wonderful for you and your baby, but it’s often brutal on your breasts. Many women describe their post-nursing breasts as “deflated” or “empty”, like the fullness simply vanished. Others notice that their breasts hang lower than before or their nipples point downward.

For volume loss: Breast augmentation can restore fullness using implants or fat transfer. Dr. Joseph Bauer, founder of The Swan Center, has performed more than 50,000 breast surgeries throughout his career and serves on Mentor’s LEAD council, which helps shape the future of breast implant technology. It’s a level of expertise and hands-on experience few practices can match.

For sagging: A breast lift repositions the breast tissue higher on the chest and reshapes it for a more youthful contour. The nipple and areola are moved to a perkier position, and excess skin is removed. Many moms benefit from combining a breast lift with augmentation to address sagging and volume loss simultaneously.

For breasts that stayed too large: Some women’s breasts remain significantly larger after pregnancy than they’d prefer. If you’re dealing with back pain, shoulder grooving from bra straps, or general discomfort, breast reduction might be worth discussing with your surgeon.

When Your Midsection Won’t Cooperate

That stubborn pooch below your belly button? It might be fat, but it might be something deeper.

Pregnancy often causes diastasis recti, a separation of the abdominal muscles down the midline. The muscles have literally pulled apart to accommodate your growing baby, and they need to be surgically sutured back together. 

Add loose, crepey skin and stretch marks to the mix, and you’ve got a trifecta of frustration that diet and exercise simply cannot fix.

For excess skin, stubborn fat and muscle separation: A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) addresses all three issues. Your surgeon removes excess skin (including any stretch marks below your belly button), tightens your abdominal muscles and contours your waist for a flatter, firmer and slimmer profile. The Swan Center has been recognized as “Best Plastic Surgery Center for the Tummy/Midsection” by Best Self Atlanta, a testament to our surgeons’ expertise in this particular area.

For fat reduction and contouring: Liposuction is frequently paired with a tummy tuck to remove fat from the flanks, hips, thighs or bra roll area. The combination creates a more comprehensive transformation than either procedure alone. 

When Intimacy Has Changed

This part of the mommy makeover conversation doesn’t get enough attention. After childbirth, some women experience discomfort during sex. Others struggle with incontinence when they laugh or sneeze. These concerns are incredibly common, and they’re treatable.

For surgical rejuvenation: Labiaplasty can help restore a proportionate, youthful appearance to large or irregularly-shaped labia so you can live with greater comfort and confidence.

For nonsurgical rejuvenation: ThermiVa uses radiofrequency energy to tighten vaginal and labial tissues without surgery. It’s a nonsurgical option that can improve both function and appearance.

One Swan Center mommy makeover patient put it plainly: “My sex life was affected, I could only wear certain clothing, and walking too long caused me to cry, it hurt so bad. I no longer have any of that! I’m a little over a month post-op and I couldn’t be happier.”

Other Procedures to Consider in Your Mommy Makeover

Depending on your goals, your surgeon might recommend additional procedures and treatments:

• Fat transfer to add volume to areas like your buttocks or breasts using your own fat
• Injectable butt lift for subtle enhancement  
• Facial rejuvenation procedures if pregnancy-related exhaustion has left its mark on your face
• Semaglutide injections to help with weight loss 

There are no rules, as long as your surgeon confirms that your plan is safe for you. Your mommy makeover can include any procedure that helps you feel like the best version of yourself.

What Makes The Swan Center Different

The Swan Center has been serving Atlanta for more than 30 years. Our three board-certified plastic surgeons — Dr. Joseph Bauer, Dr. Cristen Catignani, and Dr. Dean Fardo — each bring distinct expertise to mommy makeover surgery.  

Our on-site surgical suite is JCAHO-accredited, meaning it meets the same rigorous standards applied to hospitals. Your surgery happens in a private, convenient setting but doesn’t sacrifice safety. 

Perhaps most importantly, our surgeons are known for natural-looking results. Dr. Bauer’s philosophy explains it perfectly: patients never look like they have had a cosmetic procedure. They simply leave here looking great.

What Our Real Mommy Makeover Patients Say

The decision to have a mommy makeover is personal. Hearing from women who’ve been through it can help you make the right choice for yourself.

Rachel F., who works in the medical field herself, shared: “I had Mom Makeover surgery in November of 2019. I could not be happier with my results. I have referred many people to The Swan Center because of my immense confidence in the patient care, surgical expertise, and the phenomenal results. I feel beautiful and natural, and my confidence in my physical appearance has completely been restored following surgery.”

Oleta J. said: “I’ve been going to The Swan Center for years, starting with a Mommy Makeover (breast augmentation and lipo around belly and flanks) and have continued to go for injectables. The reason I chose Swan Center is because they have an impeccable reputation and I know they will always have only the best providers in the business.”

Amylou I. described her results as “mind-blowing” and added: “It’s such an out of body experience to feel so awesome with my body again. I highly recommend this practice and I will be going back.”

Ready to Feel Like You Again? Let’s Talk About What’s Possible

Every mommy makeover starts with a conversation. To schedule your consultation at The Swan Center, call 770-667-0904 or contact us online. We serve patients from Alpharetta, Dunwoody, Roswell, Sandy Springs, and throughout the greater Atlanta area.

Related Resources:

• Your Mommy Makeover Checklist
• 6 Questions You Have About Mommy Makeovers, Answered by a Mom & Plastic Surgeon
• Women’s Empowerment & Plastic Surgery
• Financing Options

If you’re wondering how to prepare for a mommy makeover, this checklist will guide you every step of the way.

Your Presurgery Checklist: How To Prepare for a Mommy Makeover

Before surgery, taking time to plan can make a world of difference. These essential steps will set you up for a stress-free recovery.

1. Get Your Health in Check

Your body is about to undergo a major transformation, so setting a strong foundation is important. If you smoke, now is the time to quit—nicotine affects circulation and slows healing. Maintaining a stable weight, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet can also improve recovery. If you have any medical conditions, be sure to discuss them with your surgeon.

2. Plan for Recovery Time

Recovery is your chance to rest, recharge, and heal. Most women need at least 2 weeks off work, but recovery times vary depending on the combination of procedures.

Learn which procedures are typically included in a mommy makeover.

3. Arrange for Help

Make arrangements for childcare, pet care, and household tasks ahead of time. The less you have to worry about after surgery, the easier your recovery will be.

4. Stock Up on Essentials

Having everything you need within reach will make the first few days much more manageable. Be sure to have:

• Prescription medications filled before surgery
• Loose, comfortable clothing that’s easy to put on and take off
• Healthy, easy-to-prepare meals
• Entertainment like books, streaming services, or podcasts to keep you occupied

5. Prepare Your Recovery Space

Think of your recovery space as your healing sanctuary. Set up a comfortable area with pillows, blankets, and a bedside table stocked with necessities like water, snacks, and your phone charger.

If you’re having a tummy tuck as part of your mommy makeover, sleeping slightly elevated in a recliner or adjustable bed may be more comfortable than propping your upper body and legs up with pillows in bed.

6. Follow Pre-Op Instructions

Your surgeon will provide a list of presurgical instructions, and it’s essential to follow them closely. Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain supplements that can increase bleeding. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to surgery, and get a good night’s sleep before your procedure. Be sure to arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after surgery.

Postsurgical Care: Mommy Makeover Recovery Tips

The proper care after surgery will help you heal comfortably and achieve the best results.

• Prioritize rest (but move a little): Rest is key, but short, gentle walks improve circulation and aid healing. Listen to your body and avoid overexertion.
• Wear your compression garments: They help reduce swelling and support your new contours. Follow your surgeon’s instructions for the best outcome.
• Stay ahead of pain: Take medication on schedule rather than waiting for discomfort. Staying ahead of pain makes recovery easier.
• Hydration and nutrition matter: Drink plenty of water and eat protein-rich, nutritious foods. Avoid salty, processed foods that can increase swelling.

Healing takes time. Stick to your postop care plan, attend follow-up appointments, and avoid strenuous activity until cleared.

Your Transformation Starts Here

If you’re ready to take the next step, our team is here to help. Call The Swan Center for Plastic Surgery at (770) 667-0904 or request a consultation using our online form.

If you’re wondering, “What does a mommy makeover consist of?” you may be surprised to learn that there is no one right answer. Keep reading to discover why.

What Is Included in a Mommy Makeover?

The combination of plastic surgery procedures included in a mommy makeover is customized to your needs and typically addresses changes brought about by pregnancy and breastfeeding. There are some core procedures that many patients come to associate with a mommy makeover, but even these are optional depending on your goals.

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Breast Enhancement

It can be a bit depressing to see what had been full and shapely breasts suddenly appear saggy and deflated after having children. That’s why many mommy makeover patients often choose to include some type of breast enhancement surgery. The options include:

Breast lift: A lift restores a more youthful shape and reduces the size of overly large breasts, if necessary.

Breast augmentation: If your breasts have lost volume but don’t sag, augmentation without a lift may be the best approach.

Breast lift combined with implants: Combining augmentation with a lift creates beautiful results if your breasts have lost volume and are sagging.

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Body Contouring

Pregnancy stretches the abdominal skin and often results in the “six-pack” muscles being separated—a condition called diastasis recti. This is often the reason for a post-pregnancy belly pooch. It can also be hard to shed stubborn fat, even if you exercise regularly and follow a healthy diet. Body contouring procedures that are typically part of a mommy makeover include:

Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty): A tummy tuck removes excess skin that often results after pregnancy, especially for women who have had multiple pregnancies. Depending on your needs, your plastic surgeon may perform a mini tummy tuck or extended tummy tuck.

Liposuction: Targeting stubborn fat in the abdomen, on the flanks, or lower back is often part of a mommy makeover. This minimally invasive procedure breaks up fat deposits before suctioning them out for improved body contours.

Other Procedures

Every patient is different, and so are their needs. Some patients elect to include some type of vaginal rejuvenation procedure as part of the mommy makeover. This may include:

Labiaplasty: A vaginal birth can affect the appearance of your labia. Labiaplasty reshapes or reduces the labia minora or labia majora, alleviating the discomfort caused by oversized labia and restoring a more normal appearance to the area.

ThermiVa®: This nonsurgical treatment tightens loose or stretched vaginal tissues and can be combined with labiaplasty.

O Shot®: You can address sexual dysfunction and enhance your sexual experience with this injectable treatment.

How Much Does a Mommy Makeover Cost?

A mommy makeover is a significant investment for yourself. Combining multiple procedures can address various concerns in a single surgical experience, often resulting in a more cost-effective and efficient approach to body rejuvenation than booking each procedure individually. The cost of your mommy makeover depends on the procedures included and the time needed to complete the operation, among other factors.

A mommy makeover is not about erasing the journey of motherhood but celebrating it by feeling confident in your own skin. You can discuss your concerns and goals with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons (including our mommy makeover expert, Dr. Cat!) by using the online form to request a consultation or by calling us at (770) 667-0904 to schedule an appointment.

Still have questions? Dr. Cat answers top mommy makeover questions in this blog post.