August 29, 2024
Mommy makeovers have become an increasingly popular choice for women looking to regain their pre-pregnancy bodies. This transformative procedure combines multiple surgeries to address the physical changes brought on by childbirth and breastfeeding. If you’re considering a mommy makeover, choosing the right plastic surgeon is crucial to achieving the best results.
Here are the top questions you should ask your mommy makeover plastic surgeon to determine whether they have the expertise and experience necessary for this complex procedure.
- Are You ABPS Board-Certified?
Why Ask This: Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is a testament to a surgeon’s rigorous training and adherence to high standards of practice.
Expected Answer: Your surgeon should be board-certified by the ABPS. They should explain what their certification entails and why it is significant for your safety and results.
The American Board of Plastic Surgery certification process includes comprehensive training in plastic and reconstructive surgery, stringent examinations and adherence to high ethical standards. This certification is crucial because, in many regions, any physician with a medical degree can legally perform plastic surgery, even if they haven’t completed any formal training on the procedure(s). Therefore, choosing a plastic surgeon who is ABPS-certified confirms that they have undergone the specialized training required to perform plastic surgeries safely and effectively.
- What Is Your Experience With Mommy Makeovers?
Why Ask This: Selecting a surgeon with extensive experience in mommy makeovers is crucial.
Expected Answer: An experienced surgeon should be able to provide detailed information on the number of mommy makeovers they’ve performed, their success rates and patient satisfaction levels. They should also be able to present before-and-after photos of previous patients, showcasing their work and the transformations they’ve achieved.
- Do You Have Patient Testimonials or References?
Why Ask This: Hearing from past patients can provide insights into the surgeon’s skills and patient care.
Expected Answer: An experienced surgeon should have a collection of patient testimonials and be willing to provide references. They might also direct you to online reviews and ratings on trusted platforms.
- Am I an Ideal Candidate for a Mommy Makeover?
Why Ask This: Understanding whether you are an ideal candidate for a mommy makeover is crucial to achieving the best results and avoiding complications.
Expected Answer: Your plastic surgeon should review your medical history and goals to determine whether you’re a suitable candidate. This includes evaluating your overall health, weight stability and specific aesthetic goals.
The ideal candidate for a mommy makeover is close to their goal body weight and has maintained that weight for at least six months. It’s important that you are not actively losing or gaining weight, as weight fluctuations can affect the long-term results of your surgery. Candidates should also be overall healthy and have realistic expectations about the outcomes. Additionally, candidates should have stopped breastfeeding for several months to allow the breasts to stabilize in size and shape. An experienced surgeon will consider these factors during your consultation to create a customized plan that addresses your unique needs and delivers the best possible outcome.
- What Procedures Will Be Included in My Mommy Makeover?
Why Ask This: A mommy makeover is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. It’s tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
Expected Answer: A qualified surgeon should provide a comprehensive explanation of the procedures they recommend for you and why each is necessary to achieve your desired results. They will take into account your body type, goals and any specific concerns you may have.
Common procedures included in a mommy makeover are a tummy tuck, breast augmentation, breast lift (mastopexy) and liposuction. However, the specific combination of procedures can vary greatly depending on your individual needs. A mommy makeover can also encompass additional treatments such as facial rejuvenation surgeries like a facelift or eyelid lift as well as non-surgical skin treatments and other procedures tailored to meet your aesthetic goals.
- How Do You Personalize a Mommy Makeover to Fit My Needs?
Why Ask This: Each mommy makeover should be unique to the patient’s body and goals, with various techniques employed for each procedure to achieve them.
Expected Answer: Your surgeon should take a personalized approach, considering your specific concerns, body type and aesthetic goals. They should explain the techniques they can use to customize each procedure to meet your needs, such as implant type and placement for breast augmentation and partial or mini abdominoplasty techniques if they are appropriate for your tummy tuck surgery.
- Can You Explain the Risks and Complications?
Why Ask This: Understanding the potential risks and complications is a critical part of making an informed decision about your mommy makeover.
Expected Answer: An experienced surgeon should candidly discuss the risks associated with each procedure within the mommy makeover, how often complications occur and the steps they take to minimize these risks. They should also explain their protocol for managing complications if they arise.
- What Will My Mommy Makeover Recovery Process Be Like?
Why Ask This: Recovery is a significant part of the mommy makeover journey. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare mentally and physically.
Expected Answer: Your surgeon should outline the recovery timeline, including how long you’ll need to take off work, when you can resume normal activities and what kind of support you’ll need at home. They should also provide tips for a smooth recovery and signs of complications to watch for.
- What Results Can I Realistically Expect?
Why Ask This: Setting realistic expectations is crucial for your satisfaction with the results.
Expected Answer: A seasoned plastic surgeon will give you a realistic overview of what you can expect, considering your body type, skin condition and other factors. They should show you before-and-after photos of patients with similar body types to give you a clear idea of potential outcomes.
- How Do You Handle Post-Operative Care and Follow-Up?
Why Ask This: Post-operative care is essential for optimal results and a quick recovery.
Expected Answer: Your surgeon should describe their follow-up process, including how often you’ll need to come in for check-ups and how they monitor your progress. They should also be available to answer any post-operative questions or concerns you may have.
- What Are the Costs Involved, and Do You Offer Financing Options?
Why Ask This: Understanding the financial commitment and available options can help you plan accordingly.
Expected Answer: The surgeon should provide a detailed breakdown of the costs, including surgeon fees, anesthesia, facility fees and any additional expenses. They should also discuss payment plans or financing options if available.
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For more information about this combination of procedures, read our blog on everything you need to know about mommy makeover surgery.
Dr. Jason Hess: A Qualified Expert for Your Mommy Makeover
Dr. Jason Hess of Evolve Aesthetic Surgery in San Diego is a board-certified plastic surgeon with a wealth of experience performing mommy makeovers. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, confirming that he has met the highest standards of education, examination and ethics in plastic surgery. Dr. Hess emphasizes patient safety and makes sure you are fully informed about the potential risks and how they are mitigated. He is proud of the positive feedback he has received from his patients and can direct you to online reviews and ratings on trusted platforms.
Dr. Hess provides a transparent and realistic overview of what you can expect, giving you a clear understanding of what can be achieved with your mommy makeover. He is dedicated to offering comprehensive post-operative care and supporting you throughout your recovery journey. At Evolve Aesthetic Surgery, Dr. Hess and his team are transparent about costs and provide various financing options to make your mommy makeover more accessible.
Say Goodbye to Baby Bump Blues With Dr. Hess’ Mommy Makeover in San Diego
Choosing the right plastic surgeon for your mommy makeover is a crucial step in your journey to reclaim your pre-pregnancy body. By asking these essential questions, you can evaluate whether your surgeon has the expertise and experience necessary to perform this complex procedure safely and effectively.
Dr. Jason Hess of Evolve Aesthetic Surgery in San Diego has extensive experience and a proven track record of delivering outstanding results. If you’re ready to take the next step, contact Evolve Aesthetic Surgery at (619) 299-7467 or schedule your personalized consultation online.