Mommy Makeover in Grand Rapids, Michigan

There's no cookie cutter formula. Your Mommy Makeover is built around the concerns and goals you have for your body.

Most patients combine a tummy tuck with some form of breast surgery (augmentation, lift, or reduction), plus liposuction to refine stubborn areas. Some women also include vaginal rejuvenation to improve the way their intimate area looks, feels, or functions.

Ultimately, there are no rules, as long as the combination you’re considering is safe for you.

Our surgeons recommend waiting at least six months after giving birth and three to six months after you've finished breastfeeding. Your body needs time to recover from the rigors of childbearing, and your weight should settle into a healthy place you’re able to maintain. Rushing doesn't serve you well.

Yes, you can. A Mommy Makeover won't affect your ability to conceive or carry a pregnancy.

However, pregnancy is likely to undo some, or even most, of what your Mommy Makeover accomplished. We typically recommend waiting until you're fairly certain your family is complete before having surgery.

We also understand that life happens and plans change. If you do become pregnant afterward, revision surgery is an option down the road.

Don’t be fooled by the name — anyone can have a Mommy Makeover. The name caught on because the procedure combination addresses changes commonly caused by pregnancy, but those same changes can result from weight fluctuations, aging or genetics. If you're bothered by those concerns, a "Mommy Makeover" might be exactly what you need, whether you’re a mother or not.

We generally recommend being within 10-15 pounds of a weight you can realistically maintain. A Mommy Makeover isn't a weight loss procedure, so do not expect the number on the scale to change significantly. If you need assistance attaining a healthy weight before surgery, our medical weight loss and wellness program can help you reach your goals.

It’s also important to stabilize your weight to safeguard your results. If you lose a lot of weight after surgery, you may end up with new loose skin. If you gain significantly, your results can reverse. Perfection isn't required, but reasonable stability is the goal.

Yes, and many of our patients have. Dr. Alfonso, who specializes in body contouring and tummy tuck surgery, has extensive experience working with patients who've had cesarean deliveries. Scar tissue from previous surgeries does require thoughtful surgical technique, but it's not a barrier.

Recovery time depends on which procedures you combine. In general, the first week is the hardest. You'll be the most sore, swollen and tired. By week two, most patients are moving around more comfortably.

Expect two to three weeks before you start feeling like your normal self, and six weeks before you're cleared for exercise and heavy lifting.

The general guideline after a Mommy Makeover is nothing over 10 pounds for the first two weeks, and nothing over 20 pounds for six weeks. If you have young children who need or want to be carried, you'll need a plan. Most patients arrange for help from a partner, family member or hired caregiver during early recovery.

Lifting too soon can compromise your results or cause complications. We know it's hard. It's also worth it.

It depends on your job. Desk workers often return after two weeks, sometimes sooner if they can work from home and take breaks. Jobs that require standing, walking or physical labor typically need four to six weeks.

Our team will give you a return-to-work timeline based on what your job actually demands. We're happy to provide documentation if your employer needs it.

We encourage light walking on day one to reduce blood clot risk. Anything more strenuous waits. Most patients can return to light cardio (elliptical, stationary bike) around four weeks, with full clearance for core work, running and weight training at six weeks.

Everyone's pain tolerance differs, but typically, the first few days are the most uncomfortable. Medication helps, and our surgeons use techniques specifically designed to minimize discomfort, including TAP Blocks for abdominoplasty. By five to seven days, most patients are off prescription medication and managing fine with over-the-counter options.

Yes, and we strongly recommend arranging it before surgery. For the first week especially, you'll need someone to help with childcare, pet care, meal prep and household tasks. Bending, lifting and reaching will be limited.

Most patients are more independent by week two, but having backup through week three is wise, particularly if you have young children.

Pricing varies based on which procedures you combine. Because every Mommy Makeover is customized, we provide detailed quotes after your consultation rather than publishing one-size-fits-all pricing.

Our fees include surgeon costs, anesthesia with a board-certified anesthesiologist, facility fees at our AAASF-accredited surgical center, and follow-up care. We offer financing through PatientFi to make payment manageable.

When performed by board-certified plastic surgeons in an accredited facility, yes. Combining procedures actually means one anesthesia session and one recovery period rather than multiple, which many patients find preferable. Dr. Bengtson, Dr. Alfonso and Dr. Horriat are meticulous about case planning to ensure your procedure combination is safe for you.

Any surgery involving incisions leaves scars. Tummy tuck scars run low across the abdomen. Breast scars are primarily in the fold under the breast or around the areola (depending on what type of breast surgery you choose). Scars fade significantly over 12-18 months, and they are in locations that are easy to conceal with most underwear and swimwear.

Ideal candidates are in good overall health, non-smokers, at a stable weight close to their goal, and finished having children. Beyond the physical, you should have realistic expectations of what outcomes are achievable. During your consultation, Dr. Bengtson, Dr. Alfonso or Dr. Horriat will use VECTRA 3D imaging to help you visualize your possible results. You’ll decide together what procedures you’d like to include in your Mommy Makeover.