Being a mom is a full-time job. Between making sure your kids are up in time for school, making breakfast, getting them off to school, picking them up, taking them to any after-school activities, and making sure homework gets done before bedtime, that’s one very busy day.

By the end of the week, you are just worn out and may feel that you have no time to take care of yourself. Or perhaps you have been diligently working to get back into shape, but just can’t quite get all the way there. Either of these scenarios can be particularly frustrating if you are used to being active and have not yet had the time to get back into the shape you were in before you had your first child and began breastfeeding.

In situations such as this, Dr. Paul Pin recommends what he calls a mommy makeover cosmetic surgical package. This includes a tummy tuck to tighten up loose skin and underlying muscle structure following one or more pregnancies, as well as a breast lift and augmentation, depending upon your goals from the procedure.

Because Dr. Pin knows that a mom’s schedule can be hectic, he feels it is particularly important for you to take the time you need for a full recovery. This may require some extra help along the way. Below, he outlines an optimal recovery timeline for you.

Don’t Go It Alone

Dr. Pin requires that you have somebody available to drive you to your surgery and pick you up afterward, as well as stay with you for the first 48 hours following surgery, in case you have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia. Of course, you will need full time help for longer, as somebody will need to take on childcare duties for at least the first one to two weeks after your surgery, reducing to part time as your recovery progresses. Remember that even picking up your baby or toddler during those crucial first two weeks can place undue stress on your abdominal sutures.

Getting Back to Your Regular Exercise Routine

You will want to get back to your regular mom routine as soon as possible. Dr. Pin recommends slowly ramping your way back up to full strength. Getting back to your regular exercise routine by involving your kids can be a great motivator for the whole family. Start with light exercise, such as walking one week after surgery. This is a great time to take the kids out for a walk with you. By three weeks, you can work up to a light jog, so getting a jogging stroller for your younger kids might be a great investment. Finally, you should be back to your regular exercise routine by about four to six weeks after surgery. It might be a great time to bust out bicycles for a family ride.

You love your kids as much as you love being a mother. However, you are ready to get back to the shape you were in before you had kids. By following the right recovery timeline after your mommy makeover, you will be well on your way to achieving your goals.