Question 1

How long is the recovery?

Accepted Answer

You walk from the first day. Return to work is usually between the second and fourth week, and intense exercise from the sixth. Swelling can last up to three months and the final result is seen at around six months.

Question 2

What does the scar look like?

Accepted Answer

It is a low scar from hip to hip, plus a small one around the belly button. It is permanent. It looks red for the first months and fades over the first year.

Question 3

How is it different from liposuction?

Accepted Answer

Liposuction only removes fat and does not treat excess skin or muscles. A tummy tuck removes excess skin and repairs the abdominal wall. Neither is a treatment for obesity.

Question 4

Does it repair separated muscles?

Accepted Answer

Yes. During surgery the separated abdominal muscles are repaired, which is common after pregnancy.

Question 5

Can I get pregnant afterwards?

Accepted Answer

We recommend waiting until you have no more pregnancies planned, because a pregnancy stretches the skin and muscles again.

Question 6

Compression garment and drains?

Accepted Answer

A compression garment is used and, often, drains for the first days. The exact time depends on each case.

Question 7

What are the risks?

Accepted Answer

Seroma (fluid build-up), hematoma, infection, healing problems and thrombosis. Smokers heal worse, so we recommend not smoking for at least 6 weeks before and 6 weeks after surgery.

Question 8

Who is a good candidate?

Accepted Answer

People with a stable weight close to their goal, without uncontrolled diseases, who do not smoke and no longer plan pregnancies. It is not urgent surgery: it is worth taking time to decide.

Question 9

Do implants last a lifetime?

Accepted Answer

They are not for life, but they do not have a fixed replacement date either. About 1 in 10 patients is estimated to need another surgery within 10 years. With silicone implants, an ultrasound or MRI is recommended 5 to 6 years after surgery and then every 2 to 3 years, even without symptoms.

Question 10

How is the size chosen?

Accepted Answer

It is chosen with chest measurements, skin quality and the amount of your own tissue, plus what the patient wants to achieve. An exact cup size cannot be promised, because the result depends on each body.

Question 11

Are augmentation and lift the same?

Accepted Answer

No. An implant adds volume but does not correct significant sagging. A breast lift raises the breast and the areola. They can be combined. If you plan more pregnancies, we recommend waiting for the lift.

Question 12

What scars remain?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the technique: in the fold under the breast for augmentation, and around the areola, vertical or anchor-shaped for lifts and reductions. They are permanent and mature over at least one year.

Question 13

Can I breastfeed? Does sensation change?

Accepted Answer

With implants, most women keep the ability to breastfeed. A reduction can make it harder. Nipple sensation can change and, in some patients, the change is permanent.

Question 14

When is it not a good time for surgery?

Accepted Answer

During pregnancy or breastfeeding, if there is a breast lump that has not been studied, or if you smoke and cannot stop. We recommend not smoking for at least 6 weeks before and 6 weeks after surgery. In Colombia the law prohibits cosmetic surgery for anyone under 18, even with parental permission.

Question 15

How do I verify my surgeon?

Accepted Answer

In Colombia, the surgeon must be listed in ReTHUS as a plastic surgery specialist, and the practice must be licensed in REPS. Both searches are public and free. For Dr. Jonathan Masson: in ReTHUS, search with first name Yonathan and first surname Masson; he appears with the Plastic Surgery specialty. In REPS, search for registration DHSS0590938.

Question 16

Should I decide quickly?

Accepted Answer

No. We recommend taking your time after the consultation, being wary of deadline promotions and, if you need it, getting a second opinion before deciding.

Question 17

What should I ask in the consultation?

Accepted Answer

Who will operate on you, what training they have, what the risks of your surgery are, how complications are handled and what follow-up will look like.

Question 18

I am coming from another city or country: how long should I stay?

Accepted Answer

We recommend arriving at least 3 days before if surgery lasts less than 3 hours, and at least 5 days before if it lasts longer. Afterwards, stay 15 days or more for liposculpture and breast surgery, and more than 3 weeks for combined surgery. There should be at least one check-up with the surgeon before you fly.

Question 19

When can I fly?

Accepted Answer

Usually 5 to 7 days after breast surgery or liposuction, and 7 to 10 days after a tummy tuck or eyelid surgery. During the flight, compression stockings, staying hydrated and moving around are recommended.

Question 20

Is there a minimum age?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In Colombia, Law 1799 of 2016 prohibits cosmetic procedures for anyone under 18, even with parental authorization.

Question 21

Is mommy makeover right for me?

Accepted Answer

That can only be determined after reviewing your medical information, anatomy and goals during a consultation.

Question 22

Is a price published on this page?

Accepted Answer

No. The final value is defined after the consultation because it depends on the indicated procedure, complexity, surgical time and each person’s needs.

Question 23

What should I bring to the consultation?

Accepted Answer

Bring your questions and relevant medical information. Dr. Jonathan will explain what additional information is needed for your case.

Mommy Makeover in Medellín, Colombia

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