Posted October 22, 2025 in Mommy Makeover
Planning a mommy makeover is an exciting step toward restoring your confidence and feeling like yourself again. A well-organized mommy makeover checklist helps you prepare physically, emotionally, and practically—ensuring a smoother recovery and optimal results.
At The Plastic Surgery Center of Atlanta, Dr. David B. Brothers and our experienced team guide patients through every stage of the process, from pre-surgery planning to long-term care. Use our mommy makeover checklist and guide to help you feel informed and ready for your transformation.
Key Takeaways:
- Prepare your body by reaching your goal weight, prioritizing your health, and quitting smoking before surgery.
- Your mommy makeover checklist includes organizing home support and creating a comfortable recovery area before your procedure.
- Rest and recover gradually; most patients resume light activity after 2 weeks.
- Stock essential recovery supplies such as medications, compression garments, and loose clothing.
- Maintain long-term results through healthy habits, scar care, and consistent follow-up visits.
Preparing Your Body for Surgery
The foundation of any mommy makeover checklist starts with your health. The better your body is prepared, the smoother your surgery and recovery will be.
1. Reach and Maintain a Stable Weight
A mommy makeover is designed to contour and enhance, not to replace weight loss. Aim to maintain your goal weight for several months before surgery, as future fluctuations can affect your results.
2. Complete Family Planning
Wait until you’ve finished having children and are no longer breastfeeding. Pregnancy after a mommy makeover can reverse improvements, especially in the breasts and abdomen.
3. Prioritize Overall Health
Schedule a full medical exam with your primary care doctor. Address any health issues, confirm that vaccinations are up to date, and discuss your medications with both your doctor and Dr. Brothers.
4. Stop Smoking and Avoid Certain Medications
Quit smoking at least 6 weeks before and after surgery—it improves circulation and reduces complications. Avoid blood-thinning medications, anti-inflammatory medications, and herbal supplements for at least 2 weeks prior to your procedure.
Pre-Op Home and Support Planning
Your home setup plays a huge role in recovery success. This portion of your mommy makeover checklist ensures you have the right help and environment for a comfortable healing experience.
1. Arrange Reliable Support
Line up a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first few days. Most Atlanta patients arrange for childcare and household assistance for at least 2 weeks since you won’t be able to lift or perform strenuous tasks.
2. Prepare Your Home Early
Get household chores done before surgery to minimize post-op stress. Key tasks include:
- Deep cleaning, laundry, and fresh linens
- Grocery shopping and meal prep
- Setting bills to autopay
- Finishing work obligations
- Filling prescriptions ahead of time
3. Create a Recovery Space
Choose a relaxing, accessible, dreamlike recliner or couch for resting. Stock it with:
- Pillows for elevation
- Blankets, entertainment, and chargers
- Water, light snacks, and medications within reach
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
4. Plan for Your Children
If you have young kids, explain that you’ll need extra rest and can’t pick them up for a few weeks. Arrange fun activities or extra help from family, friends, or sitters to keep routines smooth.
Post-Surgery Recovery Setup
The next part of your mommy makeover checklist focuses on supplies that make recovery easier and safer. Having these items ready in advance helps you focus entirely on healing.
Essential Recovery Supplies:
- Prescribed pain medication and antibiotics
- Stool softeners and compression garments
- Button-front shirts, soft pajamas, and slip-on shoes
- Antibacterial soap, gauze, and medical tape
- Protein-rich snacks and hydration drinks
- Extra pillows, ice packs, and dry shampoo
Pick up medications a few days before surgery and organize them by dosage schedule. Arrange reliable transportation for surgery day and your follow-up appointments—you’ll need to avoid driving until cleared by Dr. Brothers.
What To Expect After the Procedure
Every recovery experience is unique, but here’s a general timeline most Atlanta patients can expect.
Days 1-3: You’ll feel tired and sore, with mild swelling and bruising. Pain medication helps manage discomfort. Gentle walking is encouraged to promote circulation.
Week 1: Rest remains your top priority. Continue wearing compression garments, caring for incisions, and following all post-op instructions. Sleep propped up with pillows or in a recliner for comfort.
Weeks 2-4: Swelling gradually decreases, and most patients return to desk work or light activities. Avoid lifting, bending, or exercising until cleared.
Months 1-3: Energy levels improve as your body heals. You may slowly resume exercise once cleared by your doctor. You’ll start to see visible improvements in contour.
Months 3-12: Final results appear as swelling fully resolves and scars fade. Continue attending follow-ups to ensure long-term success.
Planning for Long-Term Results and Maintenance
Your mommy makeover checklist doesn’t end once you’ve healed; it also includes steps for maintaining your results for years to come.
1. Maintain a Stable Weight
Consistent weight management is key. Balanced nutrition and regular exercise protect your surgical outcome and overall health.
2. Practice Proper Scar Care
Follow Dr. Brothers’ guidance on silicone scar treatments, gentle massage, and sun protection. These steps help scars fade beautifully over time.
3. Keep up With Follow-up Appointments
Regular visits to The Plastic Surgery Center of Atlanta allow Dr. Brothers to monitor healing and address any concerns promptly.
4. Adopt Healthy Habits
Stay hydrated, eat nutrient-rich foods, protect your skin from the sun, and avoid smoking. These habits preserve your results and keep you feeling your best.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I prepare my home for recovery after a mommy makeover?
Set up a main-floor recovery area with easy access to the bathroom, stocked with pillows, entertainment, and essentials within reach. Prepare meals ahead of time and arrange childcare help for at least 2 weeks.
What should I do before surgery to get ready?
Reach your goal weight, stop smoking, avoid blood-thinning medications, and fill prescriptions early. Complete any pre-op appointments with Dr. Brothers and prepare your recovery space.
What can I expect in the first week after surgery?
Expect rest, swelling, and limited mobility. You’ll wear compression garments, take medications as directed, and rely on help with daily activities.
How long will it take to return to normal activities?
Most patients resume desk work within 2 weeks and full exercise within 6 weeks. Complete recovery can take several months, with continued improvements up to 1 year.
What supplies should I have for recovery?
Essential items include pain medication, compression garments, loose clothing, stool softeners, antibacterial soap, snacks, water, and extra pillows. Your customized mommy makeover checklist from our team will detail everything you need.
Let The Plastic Surgery Center of Atlanta Guide You Through Your Mommy Makeover Checklist
At The Plastic Surgery Center of Atlanta, we provide a supportive, patient-centered experience every step of the way. Led by Dr. David B. Brothers, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over two decades of expertise, our team helps women throughout Atlanta, Sandy Springs, and surrounding Georgia communities regain confidence after pregnancy.
We’ll provide you with a customized mommy makeover checklist, detailed recovery instructions, and compassionate care to help you look and feel your best. Schedule your consultation today to start your transformation with confidence and support from one of Atlanta’s most trusted plastic surgery teams.
