More women opt for “mommy makeovers” after childbirth

Posted: 04/06/2014

A growing number of women are undergoing “mommy makeovers” to restore and enhance their post-pregnancy bodies after giving birth. A “mommy makeover” is a unique combination of plastic surgery procedures designed to counteract the physical effects of childbearing.

Most women gain between 25 and 35 pounds during pregnancy, with the weight being stored as fatty tissue in the breasts, abdomen, love handles, hips, buttocks and thighs. While most women will eventually lose their excess weight, the weight loss is not always successful around the “problem” areas. The mommy makeover may include any or all of the following body procedures depending on the individual woman’s wishes: breast augmentation or lift, a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), buttock lift or liposuction.

Amy Milner, an associate in the clinical negligence team at Penningtons Manches LLP, who specialises in cosmetic surgery claims, says: “Given the growing popularity of cosmetic surgery, it is not surprising that the number of women undergoing mommy makeovers to restore their post-pregnancy bodies is also increasing. Regardless of their personal motivations to have surgery, women need to think about the cost, their recovery time from surgery - particularly if they are having several procedures as some of the procedures have a lengthy recovery period – and the impact on their families. Cosmetic surgery is not something that should be taken lightly as all surgery comes with risks – not just of complications but also that the end result may not be what was anticipated. It is therefore important that women remember that surgery is not the only option and should be considered a last resort.

“We would urge women to ensure they speak to their doctors before embarking on surgery, particularly if they want several procedures. Plenty of time should be spent researching a surgeon to ensure they have the requisite experience to carry out the surgery they want. We would strongly advise women to meet with their surgeons  more than once before consenting to surgery.”

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