Revitalize and renew: Embracing the daddy do-over to reclaim your confidence and physique

Let's be honest – the 'dad bod' is a reality for many men. After having children, there's not a lot of time left for self-care, whether it's preparing healthy meals, finding time to exercise or just getting a full night of sleep. And just like so many women who feel pressured to get back to their pre-baby body, so do men!

It's not vain or selfish to want to look and feel your best as a parent – it's self-care. And while plastic surgery might not be for everyone, it can be a way to help dads bounce back to their pre-fatherhood bodies.

While many well-known plastic surgery procedures cater to women, such as the mommy makeover, there are plenty out there that are perfect for men, too. One such example is the newly popular 'daddy do-over.' This newer procedure caters to men, both dads and non-dads alike, that are in search of a 'reset button' to help get them their confidence back.

But what is a daddy do-over? To help us further dive into this lesser-known procedure, we've reached out to Karen Horton, MD, MSc, FACS, FRCSC, and David Sieber, MD, to give us their insight on what this procedure entails and how to maximize your recovery post-procedure.

The ins and outs of a daddy do-over

Just like a mommy makeover, a daddy do-over is a combination of plastic surgery procedures performed on the body of a man who is typically (but not always!) a father. Sieber said that the daddy do-over "mainly addresses areas of excess fat, most typically in the chest, abdomen and flanks, of the male patient."

This process predominantly involves liposuction, which, according to Horton, can include "liposuction of the chest – to get rid of 'man boobs' or 'moobs,' a stubborn accumulation of fat in the chest and armpit region – and liposuction of the abdomen and flanks."

A daddy do-over can also involve neuromodulator injections (such as Botox) or dermal fillers to bring shape back to the face. There are also options for other contouring procedures to the face and neck to encourage shape and definition.

How to maximize your recovery

As with any procedure, the main key to maximizing your recovery is to schedule a good amount of recovery time. Horton advises that "this includes 2-3 weeks off exercise, a full week or more off work," as well as to "limit salt intake and alcohol – both of which can prolong swelling and promote fluid retention – and limit other stressors to the body like work stress."

Take your time to relax and recover and allow your body to heal. If you jump back into your day-to-day exercise routine or work, you run the risk of setting back your recovery even further.

If you're feeling pressured at work, you can always tell your coworkers and your employer that you are taking time off for surgery – no need to be specific! And if they press for details, Horton advises that "it's easy to call it a 'hernia repair,' which is socially acceptable."

"Recovery is always optimized when patients follow their surgeon's directions as it pertains to diet, compression and massages postoperatively," said Sieber.

You chose your daddy do-over surgeon for a reason – their expertise and knowledge. Now, let them guide you on how to best recover after surgery!

Insider tips and tricks

Do your homework

When it comes to planning your daddy do-over procedure, Horton advises that you should always do your homework: "Seek a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in the procedure(s) you are seeking."

You can ask for before-and-after images of patients who resemble you and even request to speak to previous patients as references for what the procedure and post-procedure experiences are like.

Plan ahead

In thinking about when to have your daddy do-over procedure, it's important to think about when.

"Wait to schedule surgery until you feel ready for the downtime – 2-3 weeks at least," said Horton. Keep an eye on your calendar and make sure to request enough time off work.

Protein is your friend

One easy way to combat swelling and promote healing after your procedure is through your diet.

According to Sieber, "A high protein diet is always recommended to help with healing and to reduce swelling." So go ahead and indulge in that extra-large steak during your recovery! It'll help your body bounce back faster.

Don't be afraid to ask for help

While it may feel weird to not be able to pick up and carry your kids around the house or follow through with your daily chores, it's important to get some rest and relaxation. Ask your partner, friends or family for help for at least the first 1-2 weeks to maximize your recovery experience.

A little swelling is okay

It can sometimes happen after surgery that postoperative swelling is pushed downward into the scrotal region, especially when liposuction is done in the abdominal area and pubic region.

"It's important for male patients to expect this so that they are not alarmed after surgery," said Horton. "With time, this swelling will resorb, and their pubic and scrotal areas will go back to normal."

Closing thoughts

If you're a dad who has gained weight or aren't completely happy with your appearance after having children (or even a non-dad who just wants a refresh), a daddy do-over might just be the procedure for you. This emerging procedure involves a combination of different surgeries and aesthetic procedures such as liposuction, body contouring and dermal fillers to help you bounce back, achieve the body of your dreams and regain your confidence.

To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.