Is A Mommy Makeover Safe? Researchers Say Yes!

September 11, 2024

Medically reviewed by Dr. Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon (ABPS) | 20+ Years Experience | Last Updated: March 2026

Returning to your pre-pregnancy body is a dream many mothers share. With a mommy makeover, this dream can become a reality. But is a mommy makeover truly safe for your body? At Allure Plastic Surgery, renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Haramis assures, “At Allure Plastic Surgery, our procedures are safe due to the extreme measures we take for comfort, sedation, and continuous monitoring by board-certified anesthesiologists. Recovery is carefully coordinated with the surgeon and nursing staff, who are available 24 hours a day for any post-operative care questions.” Let’s delve into the research data and statistics to explore just how safe this procedure is.

What Exactly Is a Mommy Makeover?

A mommy makeover isn’t a single procedure focused on a specific part of the body, like liposuction or breast implants. Instead, it’s a combination of surgeries designed to restore a woman’s body after childbirth. Here’s a brief overview of the procedures involved in a mommy makeover and their respective areas:

Is a Mommy Makeover Safe? Experts Weigh In

According to most researchers, the procedures involved in a mommy makeover are generally safe, although some complications can occur in certain cases. Below are key research findings on the safety and risks associated with the main procedures in mommy makeovers:

Managing Complications in Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck), Matarasso et al.

Approximately 10%-20% of patients undergoing abdominoplasty face local complications, while systemic complications affect fewer than 1% of patients. The most common issues include:

• Seroma: 15%-30% risk of fluid accumulation under the skin flap.
• Infection: 1%-8% risk of bacterial growth at the surgical site.
• Skin necrosis: 3%-4.4% risk of skin tissue death.
• Hematoma: 2% risk of blood collection under the skin.

Sub-glandular and Submuscular Breast Augmentation Review, Tebbetts JB.

The risks associated with breast implants vary depending on the type and technique of implantation. Key findings include:

• Infection rates: Similar for sub-glandular (1.1%) and submuscular (1.2%) approaches.
• Capsular contracture: Lower rates with submuscular placement (10.3% vs 16.5% for sub-glandular).
• Implant palpability and visibility: More common with sub-glandular placement.
• Bottoming out and double bubble deformities: More common with sub-glandular implants.

Complications of Brachioplasty (Arm Lift), Sisti et al.

Based on 93 research articles, the total complication rate for brachioplasty is around 28.9%, with most being minor. Common complications include:

• Hypertrophic Scarring: 10.79%
• Seroma and Lymphocele: 6.94%
• Delayed Healing: 5.72%
• Infection: 3.19%
• Nerve Damage: 1.5%
• Hematoma: 0.75%

Skin Surgery Risks Dr Harriet Cheng

Skin tissue removal, a key component of mommy makeovers, carries certain risks. Common complications include:

• Infection: 1%-3%
• Hematoma: 1%-2%
• Delayed Healing
• Scarring
• Nerve Damage
• Seroma
• Uneven Appearance

A Brief Summary of the Risks and Complications Associated with Mommy Makeovers

After reviewing research data and expert opinions, here are the key complications associated with mommy makeovers:

• Seroma and Hematoma: The most common risks. Seroma involves tissue fluid accumulating under the skin, often requiring drainage. Hematoma, a more serious complication, involves blood pooling in the operated area, which sometimes necessitates further surgical intervention.
• Infection: Poor postoperative care can lead to bacterial infections, which are usually treatable with medication. Proper care is essential to prevent this.
• Scars and Other Skin Deformities: Scarring is a common outcome of surgery, though skilled surgeons aim to minimize visible marks. Poor healing can lead to irregularities and swelling.
• Nerve Damage: In some cases, surgery can result in minor nerve damage, leading to numbness, tingling, or altered sensations. Choosing an experienced surgeon can reduce these risks.
• Serious Complications: Though rare, serious issues like respiratory problems, stroke, heart failure, deep vein thrombosis, and coma can occur.

Safety Tips for a Risk-Free Mommy Makeover

• Choose a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
• Ensure 24-hour postoperative care by experienced professionals.
• Maintain a healthy weight close to your ideal BMI (under 30).
• Have a full-body check-up to confirm your eligibility for surgery.
• Inform your doctor of any previous health issues.
• Discuss surgical options and risks thoroughly with your surgeon.
• Quit smoking and drinking at least one month before surgery.
• Keep surgical areas clean and dry, following all postoperative instructions.
• Act promptly if you experience pain, discomfort, or other concerning symptoms.

Final Words

I hope this article has provided helpful insights. If you’re seriously considering a mommy makeover, book a free consultation with us. Let’s talk about how we can help you make the best decision for your body and well-being.  

Brand Promotion

At New York Plastic Surgery Allure, we specialize in transforming lives with our comprehensive range of plastic surgery and aesthetic services. Our clinic offers personalized care tailored to enhance your natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in a facelift, breast augmentation, or non-surgical treatments like Botox or fillers, our state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated team ensure a safe, comfortable experience. We strive to help you achieve your aesthetic goals with the highest standards of care and professionalism.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your physician for any medical concerns or before starting any treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice based on information read here. The authors are not responsible for any outcomes from the use of this information.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon for personalized recommendations.

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