Patient Q+A – What is it like to undergo a Mummy Makeover?

Meet Claudia, one of our gorgeous Re.Girls who had a Mummy Makeover in Dec 2019, comprising of a Tummy Tuck & Breast Reduction. We sat down to learn a little bit more about her journey & what life has been like after surgery!

What was life like before surgery?

As a busy mum, my life had been all about the kids. I’d kind of lost my identity and even though I was unhappy in my body I always put those thoughts to the back of my mind.

When did you decide that plastic surgery may be right for you?

I had been wanting to lose weight for ages but was worried about the inevitable loose skin I would have if I got to my ideal weight. I talked to my husband about it and he said he would support me if it was something I really wanted. This gave me the motivation to lose the weight and book my initial consultation. The girls were a bit more independent and the time seemed right. I went from a size 16 to a 12 and maintained that weight for six months before my surgery.

I did a lot of research and spoke to my husband a lot. We decided it would be best if I had my surgery during the school holidays so he could look after the kids and take them out to give me time to recover. I was ready so I was excited to make my appointment and get the ball rolling.

How did you feel after you met with Dr Bloom?

I knew immediately I wanted Dr Bloom to be my surgeon. I had booked another two consultations with other surgeons but cancelled after I met Dr Bloom. I just felt so at ease and I knew he would get me the results I wanted.

How did you feel leading up to your surgery?

I was so excited! Being part of the Re.Girls Facebook page was so helpful. I was able to ask questions and everyone was so helpful and supportive. Bianca in particular, we kind of clicked and are now great friends.

What was it like waking up post-op?

I remember being in the recovery room and the lovely nurses looking after me. It was all a bit of a blur but they just kept chatting to me. I felt stiff but the pain was well controlled.

How was your recovery?

My recovery has been excellent. Through the Re.Girls Facebook page I got all the tips I needed to be prepared at home. I slept in my recliner for two weeks and then I was able to sleep in my bed with my pillow fort. I pretty much saw results immediately. Of course I had discomfort from swelling, but that’s completely normal and to be expected. I felt better and better with each passing day.

How has surgery changed your life – both physically & mentally?

The question is how has it “not” changed my life! Physically it has been amazing. I used to suffer horrible neck, shoulder and back pain. That all disappeared after surgery. I can now buy clothes I actually like and I feel so much more confident. Mentally has been an ever bigger transformation for me. I used to feel like I was a prisoner in my body but now I feel free. It’s hard to explain but having this surgery has been an act of self-love. My happiness matters and I feel like a better mum and wife now. My whole family has benefited from me feeling better.

I think as a mum it’s really easy to put our needs and happiness on hold. I’m so glad I finally did this for myself. It has been life changing and I will forever be grateful I had my surgery with Dr Bloom. He and the whole team have been amazing.