What Does Liposuction Do?

Liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits that don’t respond to diet and exercise. It’s designed to contour specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, arms, and back to create a more balanced and proportionate appearance.

How Does Liposuction Work?

Liposuction uses suction technology to remove fat from targeted areas. A thin tube called a cannula loosens the fat (with or without the help of a secondary energy source such as vibration or ultrasonic waves) and then vacuums it out of the body. Depending on the specific technique being employed, you may get an injection of a tumescent solution, which firms the fat for easier removal and acts as a local anesthetic.

How Is Liposuction Done?

Liposuction is typically performed under general or local anesthesia, depending on the areas being treated and the amount of fat removed. The procedure usually takes 1 to 3 hours, and patients can return home the same day. Recovery involves wearing a compression garment to minimize swelling and promote healing.

How Long Does Liposuction Last?

The results of liposuction are long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight. While the fat cells removed during the procedure do not grow back, the remaining fat cells can expand if you gain weight. Staying active and eating a balanced diet are key to preserving your results.

How Much Fat Can Be Removed With Liposuction?

The amount of fat removed depends on your individual needs and health considerations. Your plastic surgeon will discuss realistic goals during your consultation and whether a staged, multi-session approach may be needed to reach your cosmetic goals.

How Much Weight Can You Lose With Liposuction?

Liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure—it’s a contouring treatment. While you may notice a slight drop on the scale (and you may even drop a size or two), the focus is on reshaping the body, not shedding pounds. For significant weight loss, other methods may be more appropriate.

What Is the Difference Between a Tummy Tuck and Liposuction?

A tummy tuck addresses loose skin and weakened abdominal muscles, often after pregnancy or significant weight loss, while liposuction removes fat. In many cases, the two procedures are combined to achieve optimal results.

Ready To Sculpt Your Dream Body?

If you are interested in learning more about how liposuction can give you shapely contours and a slimmer figure, please request a consultation online or call The Swan Center for Plastic Surgery at (770) 667-0904 today.

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.

What Affects the Price of a Tummy Tuck?

1. Geographic Location: National cost averages for tummy tuck surgery reveal how prices vary between states and even within metropolitan areas. Areas with a higher cost of living and higher demand for cosmetic surgery usually have higher prices.
2. Facility Fees: In addition to the physical location of the surgical facility, the type of facility also affects price. An accredited surgical facility with state-of-the-art equipment may charge more for its superior safety, hygiene, and patient care.
3. Anesthesia Fees: You will need anesthesia to keep you calm and comfortable during your operation. The type of anesthetic used and the qualifications of the person administering it also impact the price.
4. Procedure Complexity: The extent of your surgery and the degree of desired correction influence the cost. For example, a mini tummy tuck will cost less than a full tummy tuck because a mini tummy tuck is less extensive. If you have diastasis recti or an umbilical hernia, however, these additional corrections may add to the price of your abdominoplasty.
5. Your Surgeon’s Experience: Highly experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons who specialize in body contouring procedures command higher prices for their expertise and excellent track record.

Combining Procedures

For patients seeking to combine a procedure like liposuction and a tummy tuck, the higher price tag actually offers some benefits. For example, a tummy tuck and breast lift may cost more upfront than booking them separately, but you’ll save money and time in the long run.

Why is this? You’ll only have to pay one set of anesthesia and facility fees, one set of fees for medication and compression garments, and one set of pre-surgical clearance tests (if needed). In addition, you only need time off for one recovery period.

Why Short-Term Savings Can Create Long-Term Headaches

There’s no denying that a tummy tuck is a big expense, especially as insurance won’t cover it. But just like a car or furniture, it often is a case of “you get what you pay for.” While it’s normal to compare plastic surgeons to find the right fit for you, shopping around for the “best” deal often leads to subpar outcomes and additional expenses.

If there is a complication, or if you are unhappy with your incisions or results, the tummy tuck revision cost will be considerably higher than your original procedure due to its increased complexity. Not to mention, you’ll need to pay again for anesthesia and the facility.

Selecting an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon may cost you more initially. Still you cannot overstate the peace of mind and renewed confidence that come with achieving the look you want.

Patient Financing: A Popular Option for Plastic Surgery Payments

Many practices offer patient financing options through reputable, third-party vendors to make paying for procedures more accessible. Financing plans allow you to spread the cost over time, making it easier to manage the expense without putting your aesthetic dreams on hold.

Right now, patients at The Swan Center can take advantage of special pricing for their tummy tucks. Financing starts at just $203/month!

Explore Your Tummy Tuck Options

With 3 award-winning plastic surgeons on staff, The Swan Center has no shortage of expertise, compassion, and skill. If you’d like to come in for a personal evaluation to receive a price estimate, please request a consultation or call us at (770) 667-0904 today.

The First 24 Hours: Post-Op Care

While rest is your main priority, short and gentle walks are essential for circulation and healing. So go ahead and take that nap, but get up every so often to stretch your legs, too. Follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions carefully.

You’ll need to wear a compression garment 24/7 for about 4 weeks to support your abdomen and reduce swelling. Some patients may be eligible for a drain-free tummy tuck, but most will need to have drains in place for at least a week to prevent fluid build-up. Learn more about drain-free tummy tucks in our related blog post.

Week 1: Initial Healing

Your surgeon will prescribe medications to manage pain during the first few days. You’ll gradually feel less discomfort and find that over-the-counter pain relievers do the trick.

Some days will be better than others. Listen to your body and give yourself the care and time you need to heal.

Weeks 2 to 4: Regaining Normalcy

Week 2 is when you gently step back into everyday life. As you reintroduce yourself to your routine, continue to wear your compression garment full-time, except when bathing or showering, to give your abdomen the support it needs to heal into its new shape.

The line between rest and activity can begin to blur during this time. You may be back at your desk or catching up with friends, but you’re not ready to lift heavy grocery bags or hit the gym yet. The goal is to find the sweet spot where you’re active without overdoing it.

Months 1 to 6: Seeing the Full Results

You’ll notice gradual changes as swelling diminishes and your new shape emerges. At the 6-month mark, you’ll see and feel the final results.

If you’re like most tummy tuck patients, the transformation goes beyond the physical. You’ll experience a boost in confidence that carries over into every area of your life.  

Tummy Tuck Recovery Must-Haves and Tips

For the smoothest recovery possible, focus on creating the best conditions for your body to heal. Here are some crucial must-haves and tips:

• Comfortable Clothing: Loose clothing that’s easy to put on and take off will minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of irritating the healing tissues.
• Hydration and Nutrition: Keep water and healthy snacks nearby and eat nutritious meals to promote healing.
• Accessible Essentials: To avoid the unnecessary strain of bending or stretching, organize your space so everything you need is within easy reach.
• Supportive Pillows or a Recliner: You’ll need to sleep on your back with your torso elevated to maintain a slightly flexed position after your tummy tuck. Have extra pillows on hand, or consider sleeping in a recliner. We recommend getting acclimated to your choice before surgery for more restful and restorative sleep during recovery.

Here’s to a Smooth & Speedy Recovery

At The Swan Center for Plastic Surgery, we understand that each patient’s recovery experience is different, and we’re here to provide the personalized support you deserve. If you have questions, call our office at (770) 667-0904 or request a consultation.

The world of non-invasive procedures has opened up the possibilities for women who hope to reclaim their “pre-baby” bodies. Surgery is no longer the only option, allowing us to help moms who otherwise may not have had the opportunity for improvement.

Your options for the New Mommy Makeover

Slim troublesome bulges

ThermiVa non-invasive vaginal rejuvenation uses radiofrequency to tighten the vaginal area both internally and externally. This in turn affords our female patients better urinary efficiency, heightened sexual sensitivity and function, increases moisture production, and restores confidence;  all without surgery or incisions of any kind.

The O-Shot is an injection treatment to help correct sexual dysfunction and enhance your sexual experience. It can help treat discomfort during intimacy, vaginal dryness, and mild urinary incontinence, as well as help women experience more frequent or intense orgasms, increased sexual desire and arousal, enhanced natural lubrication, and improved the external appearance of the vagina.

Improve “pregnancy skin”

Injectables and laser treatments can often prolong the need for more invasive facial procedures. If you’re worried about fine lines, age spots, skin laxity, or you just feel your complexion is dull, we have a non-invasive treatment for you! Technological advancements are being made in the world of aesthetics all of the time, and The Swan Center is proud to offer our patients the best this technology has to offer: the most dynamic result with the least invasive interventions.

What you once thought may require anesthesia or downtime may no longer be the case! Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn all about our menu of non-invasive treatments!

• the mother’s age,
• number of pregnancies,
• and the size of her children at delivery.

It is often easier for moms to get their pre pregnancy body back after the first child, but usually much harder for woman that have had multiple pregnancies.

Sometimes healthy eating and working out during pregnancy may not prevent the loose skin, stretch marks and/or separation of abdominal muscles, which is when women may decide to have tummy tuck surgery.

The tummy tuck procedure is performed to remove excess abdominal skin and correct separated abdominal muscles, thus giving the stomach a tighter, more toned appearance. Although most plastic surgeons recommend that women wait to undergo an Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) procedure until they are finished having children; it is perfectly safe to get pregnant after the surgery.

Women who have children after undergoing a tummy tuck can typically carry and deliver without any difficulty, understanding results may be affected by pregnancy and a revision surgery may be desired.

It is important for you to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to assess your unique situation so they can advise you on the best surgery to help you achieve your desired results.

In addition to removing excess skin and fat, your surgeon may decide that you would also benefit from tightening the abdominal muscles. This is called rectus plication, and it is so routine that many patients don’t even give it a second thought. If you’re considering a tummy tuck and you question the necessity of rectus plication, you may be surprised to learn that there are times it is crucial and other times it may not be necessary.

For most women with children, widening or separation of the abdominal muscles can occur during pregnancy.  The muscle separation can develop from the long-term pressure on the abdomen during pregnancy, and theses muscles may not completely return to their pre-pregnancy state.  Correction of these muscles during a tummy tuck is recommended if the abdomen has the appearance of an abdominal “pouch.”

It is important for you to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to assess your unique situation so they can advise you on the best surgery to help you achieve your desired results.

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!