4-6 hours (combination dependent)
~$23,000 full combination
(tummy tuck + breast lift with implants)
Smaller combinations cost less
2-4 weeks Basic
6-8 weeks Full
Our Approach to the Mommy Makeover
Medically reviewed by Christopher J. Ewart, MD and Michael S. Tarakji, MD, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons — Updated August 2026
The mommy makeover is really a planning exercise: which procedures, in what combination, produce the result you want with one recovery. Both of our surgeons perform the full range — tummy tuck with muscle repair, breast augmentation (including the Preservé technique with Motiva implants), breast lift, or lift with implants, plus liposuction of the waist and flanks. You will preview breast options in 3D at your consultation — Dr. Ewart uses Crisalix, which lets you upload your own photos from home, and Dr. Tarakji uses Vectra.
And a difference that matters for the hardest part — recovery: a mommy makeover with Dr. Ewart can include his drainless tummy tuck. No surgical drains to empty and track while you are also healing from breast surgery and managing a household. Dr. Ewart is one of the few surgeons in the Southeast offering the drainless technique.
Risks and How We Minimize Them
Combining procedures means one anesthesia event and one recovery instead of two — but it also means longer surgery, so honest risk planning matters more, not less. The risks are those of the component procedures (seroma, wound-healing issues, implant-related risks, blood clots), managed the same ways: progressive tension sutures (and the drainless option with Dr. Ewart), strict DVT prevention with early walking protocols, and keeping total surgical time in the safe range — we will recommend staging into two sessions if your plan is too extensive for one. Nicotine rules are absolute for combined surgery: quit as early as possible (ideally 4-6 weeks) with a minimum of 2 weeks nicotine-free. Every procedure is performed in our QUAD A accredited surgical facility. And we will tell you plainly if you should wait: future pregnancy plans, active weight loss, or thin support at home during recovery are all reasons to hold off.
Common Concerns
- My body never bounced back after kids
- My muscles are separated and no workout fixes it
- My breasts deflated after nursing
- I want one recovery, not two surgeries
- I do not know which combination I need
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a good candidate for a mommy makeover?
A mommy makeover combines multiple procedures — typically a tummy tuck and breast surgery — to restore your pre-pregnancy body.
Ideal Candidate Profile
- Done having children: The most important criterion — pregnancy afterward will undo most results
- Finished breastfeeding at least 3-6 months ago
- Stable weight at or near goal for 6+ months
- Non-smoker: Absolutely critical with multiple surgical sites. We recommend quitting as early as possible (ideally 4-6 weeks before and after) and require a minimum of 2 weeks nicotine-free before surgery
- BMI under 30 (procedures can sometimes be staged for higher BMI)
- Strong support system for 1-2 weeks post-op, especially with young children
Common Components
Tummy tuck with muscle repair, breast augmentation, breast lift, or augmentation + lift, plus liposuction of flanks or thighs.
Timing After Pregnancy
Wait at least 6 months after your last pregnancy and 3-6 months after weaning — many surgeons prefer 12 months for optimal results.
Who Should Wait
Postpone if you’re considering more children, still breastfeeding, actively losing weight, smoking, or unable to arrange help during recovery.
The best way to know is a personal consultation with Dr. Ewart or Dr. Tarakji. Schedule a consultation or call (706) 724-5611.
What is mommy makeover recovery like?
Mommy makeover recovery is the most demanding of any cosmetic procedure because you’re healing from multiple surgeries simultaneously. Planning and support are essential.
Days 1-3: Immediate Post-Op
This is the toughest phase — you’re recovering from both abdominal and breast surgery at once. Movement is very limited.
- Walk hunched to protect the abdominal repair; arm movement limited from breast surgery
- You need a full-time caregiver — you cannot lift children, bend, or reach
- Sleep in a recliner at 30-45 degrees with knees bent
- Arrange childcare — you cannot care for young children alone for 1-2 weeks
Weeks 1-2: Early Recovery
Pain transitions to OTC management by days 5-7. Drains typically removed at days 5-14. Begin standing more upright by end of week 2.
Weeks 3-4: Turning the Corner
Substantial improvement in comfort and mobility. May return to desk work at week 2-3. Still no lifting over 10 pounds.
Weeks 5-8: Progressive Return
Light exercise resumes at week 5-6. Breast implants dropping into natural position. Abdominal swelling steadily decreasing.
Months 3-12: Final Results
Full exercise including core work at month 3. The combined result — flatter, tighter abdomen with restored breast shape — finalizes over months 6-12. Prepare your home in advance, accept help generously, and remember: combined surgery means a harder recovery, but you only go through it once.
Every patient heals differently — your surgeon will give you personalized guidance at your consultation. Schedule a consultation or call (706) 724-5611.