Mummy makeover in London
Mummy makeover surgery is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to rejuvenate the abdomen and breasts in order to reverse the changes commonly caused by pregnancy and childbirth and also in women who have lost significant amounts of weight. Typically a mummy makeover involves a combination of tummy tuck surgery which is often combined with liposuction with a breast procedure. Breast augmentation and / or breast lift are the most commonly performed procedures in a mummy makeover, but breast reduction can also be carried out. In some cases it is possible to carry out a combined procedure which may involve an abdominoplasty with a breast enlargement procedure. The effects of a mummy makeover can be dramatic with a restoration of a woman’s natural contours prior to pregnancy and childbirth.
The purpose of breast augmentation and/or a breast lift is to reshape the breasts leading to a firmer and more uplifted appearance to reverse the sagging most commonly caused by breastfeeding. A breast lift procedure can be combined with breast augmentation in a single combined procedure or can be performed separately with either procedure being performed first as per preference. For women more concerned about the shape of the breasts, a breast lift may be more appropriate. Women who are more concerned about the size may be better served with breast implant surgery
The aim of tummy tuck surgery is to surgically remove any redundant excessive skin and underlying fat. When the skin is pulled down after skin removal the abdomen takes on a much tighter and firmer appearance. Pregnancy can also lead to significant weakening of the abdominal musculature and this cannot be improved even with regular exercise. The only solution is to surgically repair these muscles and this is commonly carried out as part of a tummy tuck procedure. Our specialist plastic surgeons are experts in positioning the tummy tuck scar as low as possible on the abdomen for optimum concealment. At Centre for Surgery, our surgeons commonly combine a tummy tuck with liposuction, also known as a Brazilian abdominoplasty. The most common areas for liposuction to be carried out include the thighs, hips and waist.
View our Mummy Makeover patient education video
A mummy makeover procedure may also involve gynaecological surgery in the form of vaginal tightening and or a labiaplasty procedure. Many women develop vaginal laxity after childbirth. Our gynaecologist is expert in both non-surgical and surgical vaginal rejuvenation treatments. Although mummy makeover encompasses a number of different procedures, it may be possible in some cases to have the procedure as a single-stage operation. When determining the best treatment plan there are a number of factors which should be taken into account:
A mummy makeover can be performed as a single stage procedure or multistage procedure depending on the extent of work required. There are many techniques used to perform a mummy makeover, and many factors should be taken into consideration when choosing which techniques are best:
- The areas that require treatment?
- What level of correction is required?
- The location of the incisions?
- For breast enlargement do you prefer implants or fat transfer?
Centre for Surgery are leaders in expertly performed mummy makeover procedures. Our outpatient surgicentre both at 106 Crawford Street and in Watford are used by our surgeons to perform a range of breast and body procedures.
All our surgeons are on the GMC specialist register.
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Why choose Centre for Surgery for Mummy Makeover?
- Significant experience in all types of mummy makeover – Breast uplift or breast augmentation, liposuction or abdominoplasty
- We own and manage our own surgical facilities. Properly performed mummy makeover takes time as it can be a significant undertaking and should not be rushed. Our surgeons perform a maximum of one mummy makeover in a day. We do not cram 3-4 procedures into one day like other providers. You want your surgeon to be well-rested and mentally and physically sharp to perform mummy makeover which is a very physically demanding procedure to get the very best results.
Centre for Surgery is one of a handful of providers in the UK who are specialise in Brazilian tummy tuck using a combination of liposuction and abdominoplasty. The Brazilian method of performing tummy tuck permits a better shape and contour especially to the flanks with a simultaneous reduction in risk profile and a shortened recovery period.
What is involved in a Brazilian tummy tuck?
Brazilian tummy tuck is a much safer and refined surgical technique compared to a standard abdominoplasty. The procedure first involves the use of liposuction (SAFElipo) to the flanks and upper abdomen followed by skin removal and repair of the rectus muscles. The enhanced technique our surgeons provide results in less pain and discomfort and with a more contoured shape. Traditional tummy tucks without liposuction are still most commonly performed in the UK and lead to a typical ‘square’ appearance.
Our surgeons are specially trained in the Brazilian technique of tummy tuck and have performed many hundreds of these highly specialist procedures. Due to the less invasive nature of the procedure, a Brazilian tummy tuck can be performed as a day case procedure. Using the most advanced form of liposuction known as SAFElipo in combination, our surgeons are known as some of the very best practitioners in the UK
“A Mummy Makeover procedure has undergone tremendous refinement over the years into what is now a highly sophisticated body contouring procedure. Even with following a sensible programme of diet and exercise, women struggle to achieve their pre-pregnancy shape. The Centre for Surgery Mummy Makeover is a comprehensive treatment individually tailored to each and every patient to effectively sculpt and contour the female body.”
– Mr Ertan Erel, Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Centre for Surgery
All our Mummy Makeover surgeons assess each and every patient in a holistic manner before a planned procedure. Factors taken in account include type of body shape, treatment goals and patient expectations to ensure that an enhanced body contour is achieved. Your surgeon will closely work with you to design a treatment plan that is meticulous, comprehensive and bespoke. In some cases, your surgeon may perform your procedure in combination with another surgeon to optimise risk profile even further.
Centre for Surgery are one of the few day case providers of cosmetic surgery in the UK and have now extended our years of expertise to perform the Mummy Makeover as a day case procedure with the minimum of side effects. Performing Mummy Makeover as a day case is possible due to advanced TIVA anaesthesia and the highly refined surgical techniques used by our surgeons. A day case mummy makeover at Centre for Surgery results in a quicker recovery, lower risk f wound infection and a faster return to everyday normal activities. You also benefit from highly specialised nursing care from our postoperative support team at any time after your procedure.
The Centre for Surgery approach to Mummy Makeover
A mummy makeover can be a combination of procedures and has traditionally been performed as a combined procedure which gives the convenience of having all procedures under the same anaesthetic. Mummy makeover performed as a combination procedure carries significant risks as well as carrying the risk of inferior aesthetic results. Performing liposuction, abdominoplasty and breast lift surgery in a single procedure carries extensive risks.
At Centre for Surgery, our surgeons optimise your safety by performing mummy makeover procedures in a staged manner where both breast and abdominal surgery is required.
Benefits of staged mummy makeover
- Better aesthetic results as surgeons are able to focus on the abdomen or breasts separately.
- Improved scar cosmesis
- Reduced anaesthetic and surgical time – less risk of venous thromboembolism and other complications. Long procedures increase the risk of complications occurring
- The procedure can be performed as a day case meaning you can go home the same day and recover in the comfort of your own home. Day case mummy makeover may have a lower risk of complications compared with a traditional inpatient mummy makeover.
Our clinic at 106 Crawford Street was recently inspected and rated as good across all 5 domains.
The benefits of outpatient cosmetic surgery
- Our surgeons live and work in London. We don’t work with ‘fly-in, fly-out’ surgeons from Italy. This is very important because whilst your surgeon takes all precautions to minimise complications, complications can and do occur and our surgeons are readily available to manage any issues if and when they arise. Mummy Makeover is major surgery and our expert nursing team will monitor you very closely under the supervision of your surgeon.
Risks of going abroad for cosmetic surgery
Our surgeons are full members of:
Mummy makeover before and after
Case 1:
Brazilian tummy tuck + full breast lift
Case 2:
Liposuction + abdominoplasty
Case 3:
Brazilian abdominoplasty
Case 4:
Lipoabdominoplasty + mastopexy (breast uplift)
Case 5:
Brazilian tummy tuck (SAFElipo technique)
Case 6:
Full abdominoplasty
Case 7:
Lipo + tummy tuck
Case 8:
Breast lift + breast implants (single stage procedure)
Case 9:
360 liposuction + Brazilian tummy tuck
Case 10:
Types of mummy makeover
A mummy makeover consists of a number of procedures which aims to rejuvenate the body after childbirth. There are a number of procedures which can take place as part of the mummy makeover. These include:
These procedures will help to improve the aesthetic appearance of the breasts, abdomen. These are the common areas which will change in appearance as a result of pregnancy and childbirth. Breasts will often lose significant volume, leaving them appearing deflated and sagging. Breasts will also tend to sit lower than previously. Augmentation and a lift can help to increase the size of the breasts while also improving the position and firmness of the breasts.
One of the most noticeable changes after pregnancy will be to do the abdomen. During pregnancy, the skin will stretch. Some women will find the skin will return to how it was before childbirth. For some women, especially those who have had multiple pregnancies, the skin will become loose and will sag. Women may also experience changes to the abdominal wall muscles, which may become stretched or separated. A tummy tuck will be able to remove any excess skin and can tighten the abdominal wall muscles.
Prior to pregnancy, some women are uncomfortable with the appearance of the labia, as it may look too big, or may cause physical discomfort. The labia can further change in appearance after childbirth, leaving women with a stretched, large labia which is aesthetically unappealing. A labiaplasty may be able to reduce the appearance of the labia without impacting any functionality.
There are many benefits to undergoing a mummy makeover, including:
- Restoration of a youthful body contour
- Can help to improve any physical pain caused by changes to the body eg. back pain
- The combination of procedures can be changed for each individual always in a staged manner
Prior to having a mummy makeover, you will have a consultation with one of our surgeons. They will be able to assess your body and see if you are a suitable candidate for this procedure. The surgeon will then be able to help you plan which procedures you would like to have.
Ideal candidates for mummy makeover
You may be considered a suitable candidate for a mummy makeover if you are unhappy with the appearance of your breasts or abdomen following childbirth. Those who are unhappy will often have breasts which are sagging or have lost volume, and excess skin or fat on the abdomen.
- Women who have lost a large amount of weight and are now at their ideal stable weight
- Loss of abdominal shape with changes in breast volume and shape
- Women who have completed their family with no intention to have further children
- Loose hanging lower abdominal shape
- Good physical and mental health
- Has realistic expectations of what the mummy makeover procedure can achieve.
- Is a non-smoker
How to prepare for cosmetic surgery
You will need to ensure you have given enough time since childbirth for your body to fully recover.
The effects of smoking on healing after surgery
Prior to having any surgery, you will have a consultation with one of our surgeons, who will be able to assess whether you are a suitable candidate and which combination of procedures is correct for you. Your surgeon may also make you aware of the risks of this procedure and risks which may occur if you choose to go overseas for surgery.
At your consultation at Centre for Surgery, it is a good ideal to keep a list of questions to ask your surgeon to make sure you are fully informed before proceeding with mummy makeover surgery. The consultation is the foundation of the patient journey and serves as a vital part of the education process.
Questions you could ask your surgeon before mummy makeover:
- Am I suitable for the mummy makeover procedure?
- Are my expectations realistic for what the surgery can achieve for me?
- Why is mummy makeover safer as a staged procedure compared with a combination procedure?
- Do you have before and after photos of patients who have undergone previous surgery?
- How long is the recovery process after a mummy makeover?
- What level of clinical support will I receive after the procedure?
- What side effects are commonly experienced after a mummy makeover?
- What options are available to me if the results do not meet my expectations?
Patient testimonials
Procedure for mummy makeover
The procedure will take place under a type of general anaesthetic used at Centre for Surgery known as TIVA general anaesthesia. This varies from traditional general anaesthesia as the recovery from TIVA anaesthesia is much faster without the dizziness or grogginess feeling associated with traditional general anaesthesia.
Your procedure will vary depending on which combination of surgeries you have. Mummy makeover procedures include:
This involves inserting silicone implants into the breast. This will help to increase the volume and size of the breasts. You will be able to choose the exact size and shape of the implants, as well as the placement. All of these variables will affect the end result and will alter how natural the breasts look. During your consultation, you will be able to try different sample sizes of implants to get an idea of how large your breasts will be. Your surgeon may advise you if you choose a size that is too large – doing this will risk the edges of the implants being visible after surgery. The surgeon will also need to assess whether you have enough skin and tissue available for your chosen implant size.
What to expect after a breast augmentation
If you want to improve your breasts which appear droopy or saggy but don’t necessarily wish to increase the size of your breasts, you may wish to have a breast lift. This will remove any excess skin and tissue, and lift the breasts into a higher position. This will make them appear fuller and more youthful and feel firmer. A full breast uplift involves an anchor scar type of incision.
You may wish to have both a combined breast augmentation and breast lift, to increase the size of the breasts as well as raise the position to correct shape.
Mini breast lift vs Full breast lift
After childbirth, many women will find that they have excess skin on the abdomen. This can negatively impact a woman’s self-esteem and restrict what you want to wear. An abdominoplasty involves an incision which runs horizontally from hip to hip. The excess skin is then excised. If needed, liposuction will also take place to remove any excess fat. The abdominal muscles are then tightened. The remaining skin is then pulled over the incision and closed. Women who do not have a large amount of excess skin may decide to have a mini abdominoplasty, which will involve an incision running from thigh to thigh, resulting in a smaller scar.
Labiaplasty
Some women may want to have an additional procedure when they have a mummy makeover. The most popular addition to the mummy makeover is the labiaplasty. This is suitable for those who dislike the appearance of their labia minora and wish for it to be shortened. The surgery involves using dissection techniques to remove any excess or unwanted tissue. There are numerous surgical methods which can be used for a labiaplasty; the one used in your procedure will be decided on in your consultation.
Recovery after mummy makeover
The recovery period will vary depending on which procedures you elected to have.
You will be able to leave the clinic on the same day as the procedure. However, you will not be able to drive home and will need to have someone drive you home or arrange a chaperone.
How to speed up recovery after cosmetic surgery
You will experience some mild discomfort, bruising and swelling where the incisions were made. You will be given pain medication which you can take to help alleviate any symptoms.
You will have to wear a compression garment on the areas which have been operated on. This will help to alleviate any swelling, as well as keep the area in shape. Your surgeon will be able to give you a specific timeframe for how long you will need to wear the garment.
If you had a labiaplasty, you will need to wear a sanitary pad for one week, or until any bleeding stops. You will be able to resume your usual sexual activities after six weeks.
As this is major surgery, you will need to ensure you get lots of rest. You will have to avoid sleeping on your front in order to avoid damage to the incisions. You will need to avoid any strenuous exercise, including heavy lifting or lifting children, for at least six to eight weeks. After this time, you will be able to resume your usual gym and exercise routine.
Risks and potential complications of mummy makeover
Our surgeons have many years of experience in mummy makeover surgery of all types. Advanced techniques are used to provide patients with the ideal result for them. When you choose a reputable provider such as Centre for Surgery for your mummy makeover, the procedure is performed to the very highest standards. Your surgeon will be able to explain all the potential risks associated with mummy makeover surgery at your face-to-face consultation. The potential risks of mummy makeover surgery can be well controlled by strict adherence to all preoperative and post-operative instructions given to you by your surgeon and the clinical support team.
Potential risks of mummy makeover:
- Anaesthetic risks
- Venous thromboembolism
- Hypertrophic scars
- Delayed wound healing
- Excessive bleeding
- Seroma or haematoma
- Nerve injury or changes in skin sensation
- Asymmetric results
- Surgical site infection
- Requirement for revision procedure
A mummy makeover is a significant procedure which surgeons at Centre for Surgery perform regularly. It is important to choose a reputable provider who is there to look after you should any complications occur – whether minor or major in nature.
Mummy makeover cost
There are a number of factors which will determine the overall cost of your mummy makeover procedure and the final quotation will be given after a face to face consultation with your specialist plastic surgeon.
- Type of mummy makeover – abdominoplasty +/- liposuction or breast lift +/- breast augmentation
- Full 360 liposuction of abdomen, flanks and back or liposuction to the abdomen and flanks alone
- Body mass index or BMI
- Number of areas of liposuction in combination with tummy tuck
- Primary or revision mummy makeover
Why not call 0207 993 4849 and speak to one of our expert patient coordinators who may be able to give you a rough costing prior to a consultation for mummy makeover.
Always remember that price should never be the determining factor when it comes to choosing a plastic surgeon for your mummy makeover procedure. A mummy makeover should be seen as an investment in yourself given the dramatic results of a comprehensive full breast and body makeover.
We feel that safety and quality of service should be your number one priority and instilling in you the confidence that our team will look after you before, during and after your procedure to the best of their ability.
Spread the cost of your treatment
Centre for Surgery are fully approved to offer finance via our specialist finance partner, Chrysalis Finance. You no longer need to use your savings to pay for your treatment – you can apply to spread the cost of your procedure with Chrysalis Finance using their simple 1,2,3 application to pay for your procedure. Don’t wait until you have enough money for your treatment, apply today and (subject to status) pay for your procedure easily in monthly instalments, using one of their payment options. Chrysalis Finance is the only ethical provider who focus solely in the provision of specialist financing for medical procedures.
FAQs
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What does a mummy makeover include?A mummy makeover is a term used to describe a number of cosmetic surgery procedures which help to rejuvenate the body once a woman has been through and recovered from childbirth.
Mummy makeover procedures include:
Breast augmentation
Breast lift
Liposuction
Abdominoplasty -
Why have a mummy makeover?After having children, some women will struggle to restore their pre-baby body. Changes to the body can most often be seen in the 2 main areas of the breasts and abdomen. These areas can often become immune to weight loss through usual methods such as diet and exercise. This can be frustrating and can negatively impact your self-esteem. In many cases, cosmetic surgery of the female breasts and abdomen and can be combined into a single procedure and this is often referred to as a mummy makeover. The exact nature of the procedure will vary from patient to patient since every woman will have different body shapes that change in varied ways. Most importantly, women will have specific goals from a mummy makeover procedure.
The great advantage of a mummy makeover procedure is that it addresses the negative spiral of decline that can be a powerful demotivator for achieving healthy eating and exercise habits. Many patients who attend for consultation will often tell the surgeon that were in amazing physical shape prior to pregnancy and childbirth. After the first pregnancy, it was not so much of an issue in losing weight, but the problems came with additional pregnancies with an increasing difficulty to lose weight successfully.
A mummy makeover can add volume and lift to the breasts with breast augmentation and breast lift, remove excess fat with liposuction and tighten skin and muscle on the abdomen with a tummy tuck. -
What can I ask my surgeon about at the mummy makeover consultation?The consultation for a mummy makeover is the foundation for assessing your suitability for the surgery and also an ideal opportunity for you to ask key questions to help you become better informed about all aspects of the procedure. This is to enable you to make a decision on whether the mummy makeover procedure is right for you.
The following are examples of questions you could ask the surgeon to gain a better understanding off the procedure:
Am I a suitable patient for a mummy makeover?
Are my expectations realistic for what the treatment can achieve taking my body shape into account?
Should mummy makeover be performed as a staged procedure or as a combined procedure?
Can I see some patient images of similar mummy makeover before and afters to gain an idea of what I can expect to look like?
What is the recovery period like and what can I expect to feel?
If I’m unsure of anything can I get in contact with the clinical support team after my procedure?
What side-effects can I expect to experience such as swelling bruising or numbness?
What happens if I am not happy with the results of the mummy makeover procedure? -
Are the results from a mummy makeover permanent?Patients who have had a mummy makeover can experience results that can last for many years but results from mummy makeover are not permanent as a number of factors can affect the results. The ageing process affects body shape and skin elasticity which result in a change in appearance.
For women who are looking to get pregnant, it is recommended to hold off surgery until after childbirth as the results can be affected. Patients who are looking to lose significant amounts of weight should do this before surgery and not after the procedure. Significant weight loss will have an adverse impact upon skin elasticity and the results will be diminished by ongoing weight loss. -
Can I have a mummy makeover?To be an appropriate candidate for a mummy makeover, you will generally be a woman who is unhappy with the appearance of her breasts, abdomen and labia following childbirth.
To be suitable for surgery, you will need to have fully recovered from childbirth.
You will need to be at least 18 years old, be physically and mentally healthy and have a BMI that is under 30. Patients with a BMI over 30 will be advised to lose weight before having the procedure. Excessive body weight is a risk factor for both anaesthetic and surgical complications including delayed wound healing, infection and seroma formation. -
What is the benefit of staged mummy makeover?Mummy makeover surgery is a significant undertaking and is often a combination of a number of procedures. Typical combinations include a tummy tuck combined with breast augmentation surgery. Certain combinations of procedures may significantly increase anaesthetic time. An example includes a lipoabdominoplasty combined with a full mastopexy. At Centre for Surgery, mummy makeover procedures are designed in such a way as to minimise procedure time. A long procedure time is associated with a number of potential risks including pressure sores, DVT and respiratory complications.
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Do I need someone to take me home after mommy makeover surgery?Yes. Mummy Makeover is carried out under sedation or anaesthesia and you will therefore be quite drowsy following the procedure. As per the national guidelines you will not be allowed to drive home yourself following the surgery. You will need to have a responsible adult escort who will need to pick you up and to look after you for the first 24 hours following your procedure.
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What can I expect in the recovery period after a mummy makeover?After the mummy makeover procedure in the recovery period, you will be attend for a postoperative check with our nursing team at 3-4 days for removal of any wound drains. You will then be seen between 1 and 2 weeks after the surgery for a wound check and dressing change. In addition any sutures will be removed at this stage. Your surgeon will see you at 6 weeks after the procedure to assess your healing and recovery to ensure your healing has progressed uneventfully. At all stages of the recovery period, our expert clinical support team will closely monitor you with regular postoperative phone calls with face to face assessment if any concern is identified. Our aftercare was recently described as 'outstanding' by the CQC.
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When will I see the final results from Mummy Makeover surgery?The final results are usually seen after the 6 week mark following the procedure. The swelling will continue to subside with further improvements in body shape over the course of 12 months following surgery. At your follow-up consultations, your surgeon will be able to assess your healing and provide recommendations including on scar care based on your recovery.
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How long will I have to take off work after having a mummy makeover?This will be different for each person and depend on which surgeries took place and what type of job you have.
You will have to take between two to four weeks off work; however, some women may feel the need to take less time off and some may need more time to recover. Jobs which primarily involve sitting at a desk may involve a quicker return to work compared with jobs that are more physical in nature. -
When can I start exercising again?You will have to avoid any vigorous physical exercise for at least six to eight weeks. This includes lifting any children, as you may risk damaging the abdomen. You will have to consider if you need any assistance with childcare prior to undergoing the surgery.
In many cases you can start low intensity activity like walking and cycling after 2 to 3 weeks before the introduction of heavy lifting at six weeks at the very earliest. When you see your surgeon at the six week mark he will be able to advise you based on a physical examination what activities you may now safely restart. -
Why should I avoid smoking, alcohol and drugs before the mummy makeover procedure?There are a number of lifestyle habits which may increase the risk of complications both during and after the procedure. Smoking cigarettes and drinking large quantities of alcohol on a regular basis can increase the risk of wound complications. Patients who are overweight or obese may also have a higher risk of both anaesthetic and surgical complications. Taking recreational drugs can potentially interfere with the anaesthetic and should be stopped well in advance of the procedure. Smoking impacts upon surgery by reducing the blood flow to the vital healing healing tissues. The risk of delayed wound healing and wound infection is increased in those who regularly smoke. It is highly recommended to stop smoking at least 6 weeks before the procedure. Patients should also reduce their alcohol intake to reduce the risk of wound healing complications. At consultation, your doctor will measure your height and weight and these are used to calculate your BMI. It is recommended to have a BMI of under 30 to reduce the risk of complications arising from being obese.
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Will I need to wear a compression garment after mommy makeover?You will need to wear a compression garment after any breast surgery and an abdominoplasty. This will not only help to support the breasts and abdomen but will help to avoid fluid build-up and reduce swelling.
Your surgeon will be able to help you to purchase the correct garment and will be able to advise you on exactly how long you will need to wear them for.
What To Expect
The consultation for mummy makeover
We would advise to have a face to consultation with one of our experienced surgeons prior to considering mummy makeover surgery. At your consultation, the surgeon will explain the potential combinations of mummy makeover procedures available to you, and which is most suitable and preferential for you given your needs and preferences. A number of measurements are taken of the body areas where fat is to be removed and an assessment will be made of the soft tissue quality. Those who have good skin elasticity then you may be a good candidate for liposuction alone. if however you have significant skin laxity with associated muscle weakness then a tummy tuck may be a better option. Your surgeon has is skilled in all types of mummy makeover surgery including the Brazilian tummy tuck and the most appropriate choice will be made based on your physical examination (full/mini/extended). The surgeon will also give information on the location of the incisions for the abdominoplasty or breast surgery procedure which usually runs from hip to hip and around the belly button if a full tummy tuck is planned. If you are having a consultation for revision surgery after surgery performed elsewhere, you surgeon may want to see you again for a second consultation. He will want to see the medical records from your previous mummy makeover to plan the revision procedure more effectively.
High-resolution photos will be taken and your surgeon may also use computer digital imaging to map your areas of concern in closer detail. Your surgeon will take time to discuss the important risks and potential complications of mummy makeover surgery and what you can expect in the postoperative period.
The surgeon will also take a full medical history which includes previous operations, current list of medicines taken and any potential allergies. This information will be used to decide on your fitness for the tummy tuck procedure. If you are deemed to be a suitable candidate for surgery then we would recommend to spend a period of time to reflect on all the information given. We always recommend a minimum of a '2 week cool off period' for to weigh up your options.
All our prospective patients are more than welcome to have as many follow-up consultations after their initial consultation to make sure you are fully empowered with all the information to make an informed decision for proceeding with tummy tuck surgery at Centre for Surgery.
Before your procedure
Once you have decided that a mummy makeover procedure is right for you, our preoperative assessment team will be in contact to prepare you for the procedure.
The following are recommended actions to take:
- For 6 weeks beforehand, it is highly recommended to stop smoking as active smoking is associated with a number of risks including delayed wound healing which could result in wound infection. There is also a risk of impaired blood supply to the abdominal skin flap and this could result in wound breakdown.
- You should stop oestrogen containing oral contraceptives 4 weeks before your procedure.
- You should also avoid aspirin and all medicines containing aspirin for at least one week prior to the procedure.
- For 6 hours before the mummy makeover procedure, you should refrain from eating any food or any type of drink apart from sips of clear fluid (water and tea/coffee without added milk) which is allowed for up to 2 hours before the procedure.
On the day of your procedure
Please aim to arrive for your mummy makeover procedure at the confirmed time. One of our nursing team will admit you for the procedure and will carry out a number of tasks including checking your blood pressure and other vital signs including pulse and temperature and then getting you changed into single-use clinic wear. The consultant anaesthetist will then come in to assess you to make sure you are fit for the TIVA anaesthetic and will also prescribe a number of pre-medications which are given by your nurse to help your recovery after the mummy makeover procedure. You will then be seen by your surgeon who will confirm the procedure to undertaken and you will sign the informed consent form. Skin marking and photos may be taken at this point.
Mummy makeover is a very commonly performed procedure at Centre for Surgery and is carried out under TIVA general anaesthesia as a day case. The mummy makeover procedure takes between 2-4 hours to perform depending on the extent of the procedure and if other procedures such as breast augmentation are combined as well. The surgeon begins by making an incision across the lower abdomen as low as possible to ensure optimum concealment of the resulting scar and an incision is made around the belly button. The abdominal skin flap is carefully undermined using radiofrequency cautery all the way to the lower ribcage. This resulting skin flap is then pulled down and the excess redundant skin is trimmed off to match the new contours. Liposuction is also performed to the upper abdomen, flanks and edges of the incision to create a smaller waist. The incision is closed with minimal tension to maximise good wound healing. A new opening for the belly button is created and the existing belly button is sutured into its new position. You may have one or two drains inserted to collect any excess fluid used during the liposuction and these are usually removed about 2-3 days later in the clinic. The breast augmentation part of the procedure involves the insertion of silicone breasts either on top of or beneath the chest muscle through an inframammary incision.
Once you have woken up from the TIVA anaesthetic, our nurses will closely monitor you for 1-3 hours afterwards to make sure you make a full recovery. You will be given a fruit juice drink or a hot drink as you prefer to build up your energy levels. Once you are assessed as fit for discharge, you will require a responsible adult escort to take you home in a car or taxi and to look after you for at least the first 24 hours after surgery. You may have a mild sore throat for a few hours after surgery. This is due to the presence of the supraglottic breathing tube used for your anaesthetic - it is temporary in nature.
After your procedure
After your mummy makeover procedure, our dedicated postoperative support team are available round the clock to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Our team will call you regularly for the first 2 weeks after your procedure to make sure your pain levels are well controlled and your healing is progressing as normal. You will need to come in for drain removal by one of our nurses at 2-3 days after your procedure.
The recovery after a mummy makeover is usually straightforward with minimal discomfort that can be effectively controlled with tablet painkillers and the majority of our patients are very comfortable by the end of week 1. The key is to keep well hydrated and keep mobilising gently to help the healing process as there is a risk of DVT/PE after tummy tuck surgery. Your doctor may recommend a period of approximately one week off work. You should minimise any excessive physical activity for the first 2 weeks after surgery to help with the healing of the incisions and reduce swelling.
You will be required to wear a supportive compression garment for a full 6 weeks to make sure healing is optimal, and also so that scars heal with best results.
You will attend for a postoperative check up with one of our nursing team at 7-10 days to review your surgical wound sites and ensure proper healing is taking place. Recommendations on treatments for scar healing may be given for optimal cosmesis. At 6 weeks you should begin to see your final results and you will see your surgeon for a comprehensive review and make sure your results are in line with your expectations.
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