Women we consult with who are considering a Mommy Makeover at our Denver practice ask similar questions about the procedure. They’re often the same questions we answer on the RealSelf website, which relies on the expertise and advice of our board-certified surgeons and other specialists who volunteer their guidance to people from around the world considering plastic surgery.
With this in mind, we’re answering some of the most common Mommy Makeover surgery questions that we typically hear from patients. As you continue reading, keep in mind that the plastic surgeons at The Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Denver are recognized as RealSelf Top Doctors.
What does a Mommy Makeover consist of?
A Mommy Makeover is a personalized suite of plastic surgery procedures that lift and contour the body, which typically include:
- Breast augmentation: Uses breast implants to add volume lost after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss.
- Breast lift: Removes saggy tissue to restore a more youthful, perky breast shape.
- Tummy tuck: Tones and firms the midsection by excising loose skin and repairing weakened abdominal muscles.
- Liposuction: Suctions out unwanted fat and contours areas such as the hips, flanks, back, and thighs.
How much does a Mommy Makeover cost?
Here in Denver, the price of a mommy makeover ranges from $25,000 to $45,000 on average depending on several factors. The final cost includes fees for the surgeon, operating room, anesthesia, and any medical devices such as implants. Each of these details will vary based on which procedures you have chosen, so a consultation is required to determine the cost.
During your personalized consultation, we’ll explore your unique needs and share a customized treatment plan with a detailed price estimate. We also offer financing options to help you pay for your Mommy Makeover procedure with as little stress and burden as possible.
Should I lose weight before having a Mommy Makeover?
Many women wonder if the have to lose weight before their surgery. Most plastic surgeons want patients to have a body mass index (BMI) below 38 to minimize the risk of complications during surgery and recovery. If your BMI is less than 38 and you’re in good overall health with a stable weight, undergoing a Mommy Makeover is safe. However, if you intend to lose more than 10 pounds, it is best to have your procedure after losing weight to get the best possible results.
How many pounds do you lose with a Mommy Makeover?
Mommy Makeover surgery won’t help you lose weight or dramatically change the number on the scale. After you’ve maximized your efforts and stabilized your weight, a Mommy Makeover can sculpt and tone lingering trouble spots.
How painful is recovery from a Mommy Makeover?
At our practice, we use a long-acting pain medication called Exparel to alleviate any significant pain. This localized numbing agent lasts for a full 3 days and helps ease the recovery process. Expect to feel sore and fatigued for about a week after the procedure.
Why do I need to wear a compression garment for so long?
Compression garments worn by tummy tuck patients (including those who get them as part of a Mommy Makeover) provide a number of benefits. The garments—sometimes called binders—support healing tissues and can reduce post-op soreness. They also help minimize swelling, improve your comfort, and enhance your results. If you experience severe discomfort while wearing a compression garment, may not be wearing the garment correctly, or it may be the wrong size. Our team is available to assist and guide you throughout your recovery—don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time!
How long after a Mommy Makeover can I go to the gym?
A Mommy Makeover is a significant investment, physical, emotional, and financial. Rushing a return to the gym can jeopardize your results—and your health.
- Return to work: Take at least 2 weeks off work (3 weeks is even better). Most patients with a “desk job” can return to work after a week.
- Resume gentle exercise: In 2 to 3 weeks, patients are usually ready to increase the intensity of their walks. Resume exercise gradually, paying attention to how your body feels.
- Go to the gym: In about 6 weeks, patients are typically free of restrictions.
Follow your plastic surgeon’s post-op instructions carefully and hold off on getting back to your routine until you are cleared.
Explore the Possibilities!
A Mommy Makeover is a truly transformative procedure that can help you enhance your appearance and regain confidence after having children. You can view our gallery of before-and-after photos to get a clear idea of the life-changing results you can expect from a Mommy Makeover procedure. If you’re looking for a plastic surgery practice in Denver and want to discuss your options with one of our surgeons, please request a consultation using the online form or call us at (303) 278-2600 to schedule an appointment.


I have a mommy makeover scheduled for October. I am 66. With the last two surgeries I’ve had the nurses had difficulty waking me from the anesthesia. I have a lot of anxiety about going under for 4 1/2 hours.
Hi Rosanne,
It is understandable that you would have some anxiety around this. It is important that you discuss this with your surgeon and the clinician who performs your pre-op visit. It would be extremely useful if you could obtain your medical records of the past 2 procedures showing what anesthesia was used. You might also request to speak to the anesthesiologist several days before your procedure (versus night or day-of).
Best of luck!
I am only interested in lifting jowels ?? Been reading about the quick lift
Hi SJ,
The “quick lift” is just a marketing way to say mini-facelift. There is really no way to address JUST the jowls as the skin on entire lower face needs to be “re-draped” to pull that jowl skin up. We have a really great illustration on our website: https://www.thecenterforcosmeticsurgery.net/face/mini-facelift/facelift-guide-step-1/