You may be familiar with the popular term “mommy makeover,” but have you heard of a Menopause Makeover? A Menopause Makeover addresses changes in a woman’s body that occur as we age. This combination of procedures is becoming increasingly popular among women in their 40s and 50s seeking a refreshed appearance. In this blog, we will explore different options for navigating the physical changes associated with menopause and how you can embrace the next phase of life with confidence.

What is Menopause?

Menopause is the natural decrease in reproductive hormones typically occurring when a woman reaches her 40s and 50s. The reproductive hormone estrogen regulates the menstrual cycle and plays a vital role throughout the body. Decreases in estrogen production result in the loss of menstruation and also affect the urinary tract, cardiovascular system, muscular-skeletal system, skin, and brain. Symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, mood changes, difficulty sleeping, and a slowed metabolism. Such changes can cause many women to feel overwhelmed and dissatisfied with their bodies. A menopause make-over is one option for restoring confidence and improving satisfaction.

Procedures for Combating the Effects of Menopause

Women undergoing menopause often find it more difficult to maintain their previous weight. This is because a slowed metabolism alters how the body uses and stores energy, requiring fewer calories to sustain the same weight. Menopause can also affect fat distribution, shifting weight gain to the abdomen and hips compared to the buttocks and thighs.

Liposuction provides a solution for enhancing body contours by removing fat from problem areas. Treatment locations include the stomach, hips, flanks, thighs, arms, and neck. While not a weight loss treatment, it can offer a slimmer and more proportional appearance for individuals already at an ideal weight. Liposuction alone may not be the best option for all individuals. After fat removal, the skin must shrink back in for optimal results. Skin that has lost elasticity from weight loss or natural aging may require additional surgery to obtain a smooth result.

A tummy tuck is often paired with liposuction. It is a procedure designed to tighten the abdominal wall and remove excess tissue. Additionally, it corrects weakened or separated abdominal muscles that can occur during pregnancy. The goal of the procedure is to create a smooth and firm abdomen.

The breasts also experience physical changes associated with menopause. In the absence of estrogen, mammary glands shrink, and the fat tissue in the breast increases. This can result in breasts becoming less firm and sagging over time. Procedures such as a breast lift can restore the breast to a youthful shape and position. Furthermore, silicone or saline breast implants allow women the option to increase breast fullness to achieve their desired results.

The most prominent effects of estrogen decline are observed in the face and neck. Estrogen plays an important role in maintaining connective tissues and supporting skin elasticity. Facial aging, including sagging jowls, loss of volume, and wrinkles, is emphasized with decreased skin elasticity. Treatment options for facial aging include dermal filler injections and surgical procedures. Filler injections can bring fullness back into the face and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Surgical procedures, such as a facelift or neck lift, address skin laxity by tightening the underlying facial tissue and removing excess skin. Surgery will provide a greater degree of change and is more permanent. However, it requires a more extensive recovery period and may not be the best option for all individuals.

Partnering with Dr. Stephanie Teotia

Dr. Stephanie Teotia is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Flower Mound, TX. She and her all-female team work closely with each patient to address their unique needs and provide a comfortable experience. She specializes in facelifts, neck lifts, blepharoplasties, body contouring, breast surgery, and more. Women deserve to look and feel their best through all stages of life, so we are here to help you make the first step. Contact us online to schedule your consultation with Dr. Teotia today.