You know you want to do something about unsightly excess skin and weakened abdominal muscles, but you’re not sure if a tummy tuck or mommy makeover is the right solution to your problem. Ask yourself these three questions to help you figure out the answer to your tummy tuck vs. mommy makeover debate once and for all.
Where Are Your Trouble Spots?
The main difference between a tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, and a mommy makeover is the area(s) that they treat. As its name suggests, abdominoplasty addresses your abdominal area and can remove and tighten loose skin and muscle tissue in this area.
A mommy makeover is a combination of multiple procedures, that includes a breast procedure and a body procedure. A tummy tuck is often included in a mommy makeover, along with either a breast enhancement, breast lift or breast reduction and, often times, liposuction.
If you have stretch marks that happen to be located in the area of skin that is removed during a tummy tuck, getting rid of them is a bonus.
What’s Your Timeline Like?
If you’re already thinking about getting a tummy tuck and another procedure like breast implants, scheduling them together in a mommy makeover could be your best bet. A mommy makeover typically only requires one surgery and one recovery period.
On the other hand, you might be able to get back to work a little sooner if you just get a tummy tuck or even a mini tummy tuck. Your mommy makeover recovery period might take a little longer, depending on which procedures you included.
What Does Your Plastic Surgeon Recommend?
The best way to decide which body contouring procedure is right for you is to sit down with an experienced plastic surgeon and discuss your goals. He or she should be able to help you pick the right procedure and help you start planning.
