What Scars Come with a Mommy Makeover?
Mommy makeovers usually involve multiple procedures — and yes, that means multiple incision sites. Common scars include:
- Tummy tuck: hip-to-hip (below bikini line)
- Breast lift or augmentation: around the areola, vertical, or in the breast crease
- Liposuction: small dot-like scars where the cannula enters
In Houston, where warm weather means more skin exposure, scar minimization is a top patient concern.
Mommy Makeover Cost in Houston
Right now, the average Mommy Makeover cost Houston patients pay is $14,750, with most patients paying between $12,000 and $21,500, depending on surgeon, facility, and surgical complexity.
Price-Range Breakdown (Low $12K → High $21.5K+)
| Cost Driver | Typical Range | What to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Surgeon’s Fee | $8,000 - $15,000 | Varies based on procedures included (e.g., tummy tuck + breast work + lipo) |
| Anesthesia | $1,000 - $1,800 | General anesthesia for 3-6 hours of OR time |
| Facility | $1,200 -$2,500 | AAAASF-accredited suites cost less than full hospital operating rooms |
| Surgical garments & meds | $200 - $600 | Includes abdominal binder, compression bra, and post-op prescriptions |
Source: 2025 Realself Mommy Makeover Cost Survey, ASPS 2024 Stats (Houston dataset)
Where Will the Scars Be?
- Lower abdomen — typically sits beneath panties or swimsuit lines
- Areola — blends into the color transition if placed precisely
- Inner thighs/flanks/back — tiny, often hidden
Scar Minimization Techniques by Houston Surgeons
Top surgeons in Houston use techniques like:
- Layered dissolvable sutures for minimal tension
- Surgical glue or Steri-Strips for thinner incisions
- Strategic incision placement (bikini-friendly)
- Scar taping protocols starting 2–3 weeks post-op
Healing Timeline
- 1–2 weeks: Red, raised, sometimes itchy
- 3–6 weeks: Flattening and darkening begins
- 3–6 months: Starting to fade; pigmentation may change
- 9–12 months: Final result for most patients
Top Scar Care Tips
Houston plastic surgeons recommend:
- Silicone gels or sheets: Like ScarAway or Biocorneum
- Massage: 2x daily after week 4 (if cleared)
- SPF 50+: Absolutely essential in Houston’s sunny climate
- Hydration + Vitamin C intake: Supports healing from inside
Scars on Melanin-Rich Skin
Patients with medium to deep skin tones may be more prone to:
- Hyperpigmentation (dark scars)
- Keloid formation (raised scars)
- Hypopigmentation (lightened spots)
Surgeons may adjust techniques or pre-treat skin with hydroquinone or steroids. Always disclose your skin history.
Finding a Scar-Sensitive Surgeon in Houston
Look for surgeons who:
✅ Share scar-care protocols openly
✅ Show long-term scar results in before/afters
✅ Have experience working with your skin tone
FAQ
How long do scars take to heal after mommy makeover?
Visible healing begins at 6 weeks, but scars can take up to 12–18 months to fully mature.
What product fades mommy makeover scars the best?
Most surgeons recommend silicone gels/sheets, plus SPF and massage.
Will my scars show in a swimsuit?
Not usually. Houston surgeons often place incisions where bikinis or bras naturally cover them.
Sources
American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) Recovery Guidelines
RealSelf Houston Mommy Makeover Reviews
RealSelf Internal Survey (Houston Dataset)
