There were over 3.5 million births in the United States in 2023 alone, according to information provided by the CDC.
Proud mothers should also feel confident in their skin. A mommy makeover helps restore a woman’s body after pregnancy and childbirth. It often includes procedures like a tummy tuck and breast augmentation.
While these procedures can significantly improve appearance and confidence, they do come with the concern of scarring.
With proper care and guidance, many women find the healing process manageable. Read on to learn more about mommy makeover scars.
What Exactly Causes Mommy Makeover Scars?
Scars form when the skin is injured and the body begins repairing the area by producing collagen. A natural healing process like this occurs anytime the skin is cut during surgery. The resulting scar tissue may look and feel different from the surrounding skin.
During a mommy makeover, scarring can occur in multiple locations depending on the procedures chosen. Common areas where scars may appear include the following:
- Lower abdomen
- Around or under the breasts
- Near the bikini line
Incisions like these are placed where they’re not as visible under clothing or swimwear.
The Vital Healing Process for Moms
The healing process after a mommy makeover varies for each individual, but most patients go through several common stages. During the first one to two weeks, the body enters the inflammatory phase. At this stage, the incisions may appear red and swollen as the body works to close the wounds.
Next comes the proliferative stage, which can last several weeks. During this period, new tissue and collagen begin to form. The incisions may appear darker or raised, but this is a normal part of the process.
After that, the scars gradually mature over several months. The remodeling stage can take up to a year or more, during which scars flatten and fade in color.
Understanding this timeline helps set realistic expectations during mommy makeover recovery. It’s important to be patient and follow all post-surgical instructions to support the healing process for moms undergoing cosmetic surgery.
How to Care for Scars After Surgery
Effective scar management begins right after surgery. Your plastic surgeon will provide detailed care instructions, and following them is crucial. At Sacramento Aesthetic Surgery, Dr. Donald Hause offers post-operative plans designed to minimize scarring and promote a smooth recovery.
One of the first steps in scar care after surgery is keeping the incision sites clean. Gentle washing with approved products helps prevent infection and promotes healthy healing.
Applying a silicone-based scar gel or using silicone sheets may also help reduce the appearance of scars. It does this by keeping the skin hydrated and supporting tissue repair.
Massaging the scar area can also be helpful once the incisions have closed and your surgeon gives approval. Gentle massage improves circulation and breaks up dense scar tissue. Doing this may make the scar flatter and softer over time.
The Types of Scars You May Experience
Different people heal in different ways, and scar formation depends on certain factors. Examples include the following:
- Skin type
- Genetics
- The body’s healing response
Some women develop fine-line scars that are thin and pale. Others may experience more noticeable marks.
Hypertrophic scars are raised but remain within the boundary of the original incision. They’re more common but often respond well to treatment.
Keloid scars, which extend beyond the incision site, are less common and often occur in people with a genetic predisposition. Pigmented scars, which appear darker, are more likely in individuals with deeper skin tones. They may need extra care to fade.
Long-Term Scar Management Options
While initial care is important, long-term scar management can further improve your results. Over time, there are several professional treatments that may be used to improve the appearance of mommy makeover scars.
Laser therapy can reduce scar pigmentation and smooth uneven textures. Microneedling stimulates collagen production and is sometimes used to soften older or more stubborn scars. For those with hypertrophic or keloid scars, steroid injections may reduce inflammation and flatten raised areas.
There are also medical-grade skin care products available through Sacramento Aesthetic Surgery that may support long-term healing. Options tend to include ingredients like:
- Vitamin E
- Onion extract
- Gentle retinoids to improve skin tone and texture
Such options are considered once the scars have had several months to heal. If you’re concerned about the appearance of your scars, it’s best to consult with your plastic surgeon to determine the most appropriate solution.
The Major Role of Surgical Technique in Scar Appearance
Proper incision placement, tension control, and suturing methods all contribute to the final result.
At Sacramento Aesthetic Surgery, Dr. Hause uses precise techniques designed to reduce scarring and place incisions in discreet areas. His experience and attention to detail help minimize trauma to the surrounding tissues. It results in smoother and less visible scars.
Patients who choose Sacramento Aesthetic Surgery benefit not only from high-quality surgical care but also from comprehensive support during the entire recovery process. It includes the following:
- Personalized advice on scar care
- Access to professional-grade treatments
- Long-term follow-up to ensure optimal results
Making the Most of the Recovery Journey
It’s normal to feel some apprehension about scars when considering a mommy makeover. Nevertheless, with proper care and realistic expectations, most women are pleased with their results after plastic surgery recovery. Scars often become less noticeable over time, and many can be hidden by clothing or swimwear.
For numerous women, a mommy makeover is part of reclaiming their bodies and confidence after the changes of motherhood. The physical improvements combined with the emotional benefits make the temporary presence of cosmetic surgery scars a worthwhile trade-off.
By Getting Reputable Services, You Can Reduce the Appearance of Mommy Makeover Scars
While mommy makeover scars are a factor, the benefits of your makeover will make the investment worth it.
Sacramento Aesthetic Surgery has over a quarter of a century of experience in the field. Sacramento residents come to us for facelifts, skin care, mommy makeovers, and much more. You can put your full trust in our experience, which includes over 5,000 procedures.
Are you ready to look your absolute best? If so, don’t wait to schedule a consultation with the Sacramento Aesthetic Surgery team today.
