Mommy Makeover recovery — week by week

What healing actually looks like — week by week — for mommy makeover.

Recovery timeline

1. Week 1
   Most painful — combined recovery from multiple procedures. Childcare help essential. No lifting children.
2. Weeks 2–3
   Desk work realistic. Still no lifting over 10 lbs (matters for toddlers).
3. Weeks 4–6
   Light cardio. Driving restored. Garments still required.
4. Months 3–6
   Final shape emerges. Implants drop and fluff. Tummy-tuck scar still red.
5. Months 6–12
   Scars mature. Final breast and abdominal contour visible.

Quick reference

Back to work

2–3 weeks for desk; 4+ weeks if work requires lifting.

What's normal vs. what to call about

Some swelling, bruising, asymmetry, numbness, and tightness are expected in the first weeks. Sudden severe pain, fever above 101°F, drainage, spreading redness, or one-sided swelling that worsens after improving warrant a same-day call to your surgeon.

See mommy makeover results across the recovery curve on the main Mommy Makeover page.