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.

Shaping the Evolution of Breast Augmentation

Dr. Bauer’s training, experience, and innovative techniques are second to none among breast augmentation specialists. During his career, he has performed more than 50,000 breast surgeries for patients who travel to The Swan Center for Plastic Surgery from throughout the world.

Dr. Bauer has also participated in multiple clinical trials involving breast surgery, where he had a direct role in improving breast augmentation techniques.

Dr. Bauer on Breast Augmentation

During a recent interview, Dr. Bauer discussed his approach to breast augmentation, what occurs during a consultation, and how the shaping and stabilization technique he developed improves breast augmentation results.

Q. When you first meet with a patient considering breast augmentation, what information do you want to learn?

A. I really like to get to know the person. I consider it like a cocktail party, where I ask questions about their lives and establish a trusting relationship. By the time of the consultation, they’ve already spoken with our patient coordinator, and many of the details have been documented.

Q. Do patients arrive with a specific size of breast implant in mind?

A. Some do, but it’s important that they understand that getting the natural-looking results that virtually all patients want depends on their unique body. Just because a certain size implant looks good on their friend doesn’t mean it’s right for them.

Q. The population of Atlanta is diverse. Are there physical differences that you need to account for during surgery?

A. Yes. For example, certain ethnic groups have denser breast tissue than others. Breast augmentation is never a one-size-fits-all procedure, and I take into account all factors when planning the surgery.

Q. Tell us about the breast shaping and stabilization technique you developed.

A. I developed the shaping and sculpting technique to achieve a better, longer-lasting result than traditional implant placement. A beautiful breast augmentation result involves creating an attractive, natural-looking breast shape.

My technique uses composite breast sculpting for more predictable, long-term results. During the procedure, I anchor the inframammary fold and use tissue for an internal bra that supports the implants.

Q. You served on the council for LEAD (Leadership, Experience, and Development in Breast Augmentation), which is composed of top breast augmentation specialists. What was that experience like?

A. The council included thought leaders with practices similar to ours. The meetings involved exchanging the best ideas and areas of research about breast augmentation. It was pretty awesome. The aesthetics field is a small world, and there are some really smart people out there.

Q. What are some of the most significant changes in breast augmentation preferences you’ve seen over the years?

A. A decrease in volume. Patients are getting smaller implants and don’t want to be quite as curvy as what you may have seen 10 or 20 years ago. The type of implants patients choose has completely reversed since silicone gel implants were reapproved for use (in 2006). For many years, more patients chose saline-filled implants. Now, 97% of breast augmentation patients at our practice choose cohesive silicone gel implants.

Q. What’s the best part of specializing in breast augmentation?

A. I’ve been very lucky. I work with amazing people, and we’ve made a lot of people smile over the years. I’m just blessed to see so many happy faces.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re considering breast augmentation and want to discuss your options personally with Dr. Bauer or another board-certified plastic surgeon at The Swan Center for Plastic Surgery, request a consultation using the online form or call us at (770) 667-0904. You can also view breast augmentation results in our gallery of before-and-after photos.

If you’ve undergone breast augmentation or are considering it, you might be wondering “how long do breast implants last.” It’s a valid concern, as breast implants are not designed to be lifelong devices.  

This blog post covers what you need to know about breast implant longevity, including when to replace them, the durability of different implant types, and the importance of breast implant warranties. We’ll also provide tips for preserving your breast augmentation results. 

How Long Do Saline Breast Implants Last? 

Saline breast implants are filled with a harmless sterile saltwater solution. For most women, saline implants can last between 10 and 20 years, though their actual lifespan will depend on factors such as your age, lifestyle, and changes in your body over time.

In the unlikely event of a rupture or leak, a saline implant will deflate, creating a noticeable change in the breast’s appearance. This creates a visible indicator of when you should replace your saline implant.

Still, it’s important to monitor your implants regularly through visual checks and routine scans and to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon if you notice any changes or have concerns. 

How Long Do Silicone Breast Implants Last? 

Silicone breast implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. They have a comparable lifespan to saline implants and can last 10 to 20 years or more. Again, the actual duration depends on individual factors. 

These implants tend to maintain their shape and feel, making them a reliable option for those seeking long-lasting breast augmentation results. However, implant aging will eventually affect the integrity of your implants—the risk of rupture often increases as the implants become older. This makes regular MRI or high-resolution ultrasound screenings and occasional checkups with your plastic surgeon vital.  

Silicone implants can rupture “silently,” so proactive, ongoing monitoring can ensure your implants are functioning correctly and haven’t developed any issues. 

What Does a Breast Implant Warranty Cover? 

Breast implant warranties provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected complications. While the specific terms and conditions vary between manufacturers, here are some common aspects of what breast implant warranties typically cover: 

• Rupture Coverage: Most warranties cover the cost of replacing the implant if it ruptures within a specified time frame. Some warranties may also include financial assistance for surgical fees. 

• Capsular Contracture: In cases where capsular contracture occurs (a condition where scar tissue tightens around the implant), warranties may cover implant replacement and related expenses. 

• Implant Malfunction: Warranties may also cover implant malfunction due to manufacturing defects. 

• Limited Lifetime Coverage: Some manufacturers offer limited lifetime coverage for certain implant types, providing reassurance over an extended period. 

At The Swan Center, we are proud to use MENTOR® implants, which come with a lifetime warranty for rupture or deflation.

Tips for Preserving Your Breast Augmentation Results 

Now that we’ve discussed the lifespan of breast implants and warranty coverage, let’s explore some tips for preserving your breast augmentation results: 

• Regular Checkups: Follow your plastic surgeon’s recommended follow-up appointment schedule to ensure your implants are in good condition and functioning correctly. 

• Keep Your Weight Stable: Significant weight fluctuations can impact the appearance of your breast implants.  

• Protect Your Chest: When engaging in physical activities or contact sports, use proper protective gear to minimize the risk of trauma to your chest area. 

• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise can help maintain your overall well-being, which can, in turn, contribute to the longevity of your breast augmentation results. 

• Stay Informed: Keep current on the latest developments in breast implant safety and technology. If there are updates or recalls related to your implants, proactively address any potential concerns. 

When you decide it’s time to get your implants replaced with a newer model or a shape or style that’s more aligned with your aesthetic preferences, you’ll schedule breast implant revision surgery. See for yourself how our patients can achieve beautiful, proportional, and natural-looking results—that are just as good if not better than the original procedure—in our before-and-after photo gallery. 

Ready To Enhance Your Confidence With Breast Augmentation? 

We understand the importance of feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin. If you’re considering breast augmentation or have questions about your existing breast implants (including whether you should get them removed), please request a consultation or call us at (770) 667-0904 today. 

If you’re considering breast implant removal, you likely have numerous questions! The answer to the question of whether or not an explantation procedure is right for you is certainly a personal one—but it’s best to make the decision with counseling from a board-certified plastic surgeon. 

Our Swan Center plastic surgeons have decades of combined knowledge on the subject and are here to explain some of the most critical things to consider when making this important decision about your body. Below, we’re covering the reasons certain patients may choose to reverse their “boob job,” plus what happens during the surgery and after, to help you decide if it’s time to speak with a plastic surgeon.

What are some reasons to have breast implants removed?

Patients may seek out breast explantation (another term for implant removal) because of personal preference, a change in their breasts’ appearance, to treat a complication, or for other health-related reasons. 

Following are some of the specific scenarios that may lead you to want to have your breast implants taken out:

• Personal preference or lifestyle
• Rupture and/or deflation
• Capsular contracture
• Health concerns
• Cosmetic changes
• Aesthetic irregularities
• Time since your implants were placed

Personal preference or lifestyle

Many breast implant removals boil down to personal choice. It’s completely normal to have your breasts implants out because they aren’t a good fit for your lifestyle, or you prefer to have your natural breast size and/or shape again! Some patients feel their breasts are too heavy, or their tastes have changed and they want a more natural aesthetic.

Rupture and/or deflation

A ruptured breast implant is an implant that has torn or developed a hole in the outer silicone shell. With saline-filled implants, you will typically notice that your implant has deflated: the saline (salt water) leaks out and is safely absorbed by the body. This is a common reason patients decide to have a breast explant since deflated implants change the appearance of your breast(s).

With the modern cohesive silicone gel-filled implants, however, a rupture can be asymptomatic—it usually doesn’t change your breasts’ appearance, and therefore can only be detected with an MRI or ultrasound scan, which (as of 2022) are recommended by the FDA after 5-6 years, with check-ups every 2-3 years thereafter. If a rupture is detected, then the compromised silicone implant should be removed or replaced because the silicone inside the implant is not meant to be exposed inside the body, and may interact with lymph nodes or surrounding tissues.

Capsular contracture

Capsular contracture develops when the capsule of scar tissue that naturally forms around an implant irregularly tightens and hardens, distorting the shape of your breast(s). There are several Baker grades of capsular contracture severity, and some scientists believe it may be caused by a bacterial biofilm that forms on the implant. To treat capsular contracture, some patients may choose explantation with capsulectomy (scar tissue removal), while many patients opt to replace their implants in order to restore their breasts to their previous augmented look (this option comes with a risk of recurrence, but surgeons have various techniques to help minimize the risk).

Health concerns

Breast implants have been the subject of ongoing studies exploring their connection with certain health conditions. Breast implant illness, or BII, refers to the experience of systemic symptoms like hair loss, memory loss, rash, brain fog, or fatigue that are thought to be caused by breast implants. BII is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning that patients work with their providers to eliminate other possible causes of their symptoms before arriving at a diagnosis of BII. Research is currently underway to better understand BII, but currently BII is not a diagnosable condition. To alleviate symptoms, explantation surgery may be chosen as a treatment option. 

Nothing is more important than our commitment to the safety of our patients. We proudly offer  MENTOR® implants for our breast augmentation patients, which have an extensive warranty program and a high standard of quality and safety. MENTOR® has conducted decades worth of clinical studies to closely monitor long-term breast implant complications, which is why we trust using these implants for our patients.

Cosmetic changes

With aging, childbearing, and weight changes, the breasts’ appearance is likely to change. You may decide you want a change in the shape or size of your breasts with a revision cosmetic surgery, or simply to have your implants taken out—we understand! Whether you want to add a breast lift to your breast implant removal for a perkier appearance or you opt for a simple removal surgery, cosmetic change is a normal reason to seek an explant.

Aesthetic irregularities

Aesthetic complications include visible implant rippling, implant malposition, or asymmetry of your results, and any of these may lead you to decide to remove your implants. An experienced cosmetic breast surgeon can also help you to restore a natural-looking breast shape and size with a customized combination of procedures like breast lift to address breast ptosis and fat transfer to the breasts to add a small amount of volume and upper pole fullness, as needed. 

Time since your implants were placed

Time passed since getting your implants is another reason: according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and other experts, breast implants are not lifetime medical devices and may need replacement or removal after 10-15 years. That said, if you are happy with your look and aren’t experiencing a complication, there is no need to have your implants out within a specific time frame.

Alternatives to breast implant removal

As an alternative to explantation, breast implant revision with implant replacement is an option if you still want the look of implants: many patients switch to newer-generation silicone gel breast implants which are very durable, safe, and natural-feeling. You can also choose implant revision surgery instead of removal if you have a complication, such as capsular contracture, that needs to be treated.

It’s completely normal to have your breasts implants out because they aren’t a good fit for your lifestyle, or you prefer to have your natural breast size and/or shape again!

Most explants involve more than just removing implants 

Breast implant removal is performed under general anesthesia, and uses the same incision or incisions (if possible) used during your initial breast augmentation. However, implant removal typically involves more than just taking out the implants: depending on the state of your implants and any complications you may have, the capsule of scar tissue may need to be removed partially or completely in a procedure known as “capsulectomy.” Here are the capsulectomy options to discuss with your board-certified plastic surgeon during your consultation:

En bloc capsulectomy

In an en bloc capsulectomy, your surgeon removes the implant and the surrounding capsule of scar tissue in one unit. This technique may be necessary if the implant poses a health risk if exposed to the surrounding tissues. Still, it should only be used when critical to the patient’s health as en bloc capsulectomy can notably increase the risk of damage to surrounding tissues.

Total capsulectomy

A total capsulectomy involves first opening the implant capsule and removing the implant, then removing all of the capsule tissue second to that (sometimes in separate pieces). This is a somewhat less risky procedure than en bloc capsulectomy, yet still requires the surgeon to be vigilant working around surrounding tissues.

Partial capsulectomy

A partial capsulectomy involves removing any problematic portions of the scar capsule tissue  that could inhibit a good outcome. The surgeon will leave any part of the capsule that is deemed risky to remove.

Ultimately, which type of capsulectomy is best suited to treating your anatomy and concerns can only be determined in an in-person consultation. Your plastic surgeon will explain which options will be effective and safe based on your reasons for seeking an explant surgery.

You may also want a breast lift or fat transfer—here’s why

A breast lift is a plastic surgery that tightens stretched tissues, removes any excess skin that is contributing to sagging or drooping, and creates a firmer, lifted breast shape. It can also move the nipples higher on the breast mound, if needed, to help your breasts look more youthful. 

Since having large breast implants, pregnancy, weight changes, and aging can all contribute to stretched breast tissues, it’s fairly common to need a breast lift to restore an aesthetically pleasing breast shape after breast implant removal. We can perform a breast lift in the same surgery, under the same anesthesia as your explantation procedure, in most cases. Including a breast lift adds 1-2 hours to the total procedure time.

Additionally, a fat transfer to the breasts is a procedure that can add a modest amount of volume and shape, as well as help to provide volume where needed in a customized fashion. Fat transfer may even be able to help you to restore some degree of cleavage or upper-pole fullness.

That said, patients with minimal stretching of breast tissue can take a “wait and see” approach, having their breast implants removed first, then deciding later if they are happy with their breast shape. Our surgeons will be sure to educate you on any options that may provide a pleasing outcome and will support your ultimate decision, developing a tailored procedure plan.

Your breasts’ appearance after explantation

Your breast will lose volume and fullness after your implants are taken out, but they will likely still have a familiar shape to you. It’s common for patients to be worried about their breasts’ appearance after an explant, but for most, there is some amount of “bounce back” that you can expect to see over time as your breast skin adjusts to not having implants. Talk with your surgeon about these concerns, and based on your own anatomy, they can help you decide if an additional procedure like breast lift may truly be necessary (or not!) to help you see a result you love after surgery.

About The Swan Center for Plastic Surgery in Atlanta

The board-certified plastic surgeons at The Swan Center for Plastic Surgery are here to help you achieve peace of mind as well as your aesthetic goals. We understand that the decision to remove breast implants is a highly personal one, and we make it our goal to be here for you each step of the way. To learn more and meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon at our luxurious accredited private surgery center and medical spa, schedule your consultation today by calling 770-667-0904 or filling out our online form.

1. Prepare like a pro

The first secret to gorgeous results is having a productive, in-depth personal consultation with your plastic surgeon. And you’ll get the most out of that meeting if you prepare ahead: read about others’ breast augmentation experiences, look at before and after photos of patients who look like you in the ‘before’ images, and get a basic understanding of breast implant and surgical options.

Take notes, save examples, and write down the questions you want to ask. This will empower you to ask more detailed questions and help you receive personally relevant information. Patients who have prepared for their consultation are better able to clearly communicate their goals, helping them to get on the same page with their surgeon more easily.

As you research breast implants, take notes, save photos, and write down the questions you want to ask your plastic surgeon.

2. Pay attention to the details

Your surgical plan has a big impact on your results. Whether you want a subtle boost or notably bigger breasts, my goal is to create a volumetric look that perfectly suits your frame. Here are 3 key elements of the plan that I am thinking about when I meet with you:

• Breast implant options: There are a range of breast implant options, with variations in size/volume, profile, and material. During the consultation, you will have the chance to try on sizers and feel implant options for yourself. We’ll recommend a range of sizes and profiles of implants that we know will look good on you, and help you narrow down your options from there.
• Breast lifts: If your breasts sag, you may need a breast lift in combination with your breast augmentation. This is not always the case, as a little visible “lift” can be achieved with implants. But if your breast sagging is more than just mild, we may have to incorporate a lift in order to achieve your vision.
• Add-on procedures: You may desire add-on procedures (such as liposuction) to get ideal, comprehensive results.

Excellent surgeons customize the procedure for your anatomy, and discuss the details of the surgery with you. The best surgical outcomes happen when the surgeon and patient are collaborating—you bring your expertise about your body and goals, and I bring my expertise about breast surgery.

3. Optimize your health for a smooth recovery

The secret to an optimal recovery? It starts well ahead of surgery! Go ahead and start investing in your health to support your body’s ability to heal during recovery:

• Strictly abstain from smoking and vaping.
• Fuel a healthy recovery by eating a nutrient-rich diet full of protein, fruits and vegetables, healthy fats like nuts and seeds, and whole-grain carbohydrates.
• After breast augmentation, you will need to sleep on your back. So that you’ll be comfortable getting quality rest in this position after surgery, practice ahead of time! You may want to place pillows along your sides to support this position at first.

After recovery, follow these tips that are a key part of the secret to gorgeous results:

• Continue to refrain from smoking—and, ideally, don’t pick it back up! Smoking ages your skin prematurely, and therefore contributes to breast sagging.
• Continue to eat a nutrient-rich diet.
• Don’t do too much, too soon after surgery. Embrace this chance to rest and allow your body to do the work of healing!
• Wear soft, supportive surgical bras—no underwires until your surgeon gives you the OK.
• Sleep on your back.
• Take care of your incisions per the scar care instructions that we provide.
• Avoid the sun, which will darken your healing scars and contribute to early skin aging.

4. Do it for the right reasons

Breast augmentation is one of most genuinely confidence-boosting procedures available. Yet choosing breast implants is a personal decision, and the happiest patients we see post-op decide to have this procedure to feel like a stronger, more confident version of themselves—not to please someone else. Check in with yourself before booking your consultation to make sure that you are seeking breast augmentation as a gift of confidence to yourself rather than to make others happy.

Breast augmentation should be a gift of confidence you give yourself—not something you do to make others happy.

5. Choose a qualified plastic surgeon who gets you

Good rapport with your plastic surgeon may be the most important secret to your results. Look for someone who listens to you and works with you during the consultation to make sure they 100% understand what you want out of surgery. Find a surgeon who is board certified, has years of experience, has glowing reviews, and shows you stellar before-and-after results that resemble the look you’re going for. Trust your intuition, and if you don’t feel that your plastic surgeon gets you, get a second opinion!

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Cat at Swan Center in Atlanta

Female board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Cristen Catignani wants her Atlanta breast augmentation patients to feel empowered, safe, and listened to every step of the way. If you are ready to schedule your consultation and learn what breast augmentation with Dr. Cat can do for you, call 770-667-0904 or contact our practice online.

Mentor is a global leader in implant manufacturing. LEAD stands for Leadership, Experience, and Development in Breast Augmentation. The LEAD Council is composed of board certified plastic surgeons who meet on an annual basis to share their wealth of experience and knowledge with Mentor Worldwide LLC. The objective of this meeting is to better understand the needs of you, the consumer, so that Mentor may further enhance its product and educational programs.

The 2013 LEAD Council invited 44 board-certified plastic surgeons who are selected out of thousands of plastic surgeons across the nation.  They are the most experienced in breast augmentation surgeries with the highest volume practices.

Dr. Bauer says, “It is an honor to participate in the LEAD Council for another year.  Every year the meeting allows us to share knowledge and experiences and to share techniques and advancements with select colleagues.  This in turn helps the manufacturer understand the evolving needs of the consumer, i.e. the patients.”

Dr. Bauer has been selected as a trusted participant for 7 years in a row!  Congratulations, Dr. Bauer!

(If you have a Google account, follow Dr Joseph G Bauer on Google Plus!)

The answer is Yes! Not only is it safe, but also convenient.

A mommy makeover is a combined set of cosmetic procedures designed for women who want to improve certain areas of the body following pregnancy. Mommy makeovers can be a combination of many procedures, but usually include a variety of these:

• breast augmentation
• breast lift with or without implants
• a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
• labiaplasty
• and liposuction

Depending on your personal circumstances and surgical requirements, these procedures can typically be performed in a single surgery.  As a general rule, surgery should not last longer than 6 hours. This is for the safety of both patient and physician.

The first step in planning for a mommy makeover is scheduling a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who is experienced in mommy makeover procedures. You’ll get a chance to discuss your medical history, desires for your new appearance, and whether single or multiple surgeries may be right for you.

The benefits of an all-inclusive mommy makeover are that you’ll only have to go through one recovery period, you may be able to reduce some costs by undergoing all the procedures at once, and to top it all off, you’ll get to see and enjoy the end results much sooner!