Los Angeles isn't just a destination for plastic surgery — it's the destination.
Home to Hollywood's most trusted surgeons, the Los Angeles area boasts 2.98 plastic surgeons per 100,000 and world-class training programs at USC and UCLA, offering an unmatched combination of expertise, innovation, and experience.
Whether you're traveling from across the country or just a few hours away, every journey is easier if you go into it knowing what to expect. With that in mind, we'll share some insider knowledge about selecting a mommy makeover surgeon, navigating LA's diverse neighborhoods, planning your stay, and managing logistics
That's so you can focus on what matters most: Achieving the results you deserve.
WHY LOS ANGELES LEADS IN MOMMY MAKEOVERS
To start, Los Angeles is the birthplace of the mommy makeover
Dr. Grant Stevens at Marina Plastic Surgery originally developed and popularized the mommy makeover concept, and LA surgeons have been refining these techniques ever since.
The numbers tell the story. Los Angeles ranks third nationally for plastic surgeon density, and the West Coast performs approximately 30% of all cosmetic procedures in the United States. This creates a competitive environment where surgeons must stay current with the latest techniques and technologies.
In other words, to be a successful plastic surgeon in a place like Beverly Hills, you have to be very good at what you do.
Innovation happens here first, and the rest of the country follows
Hollywood's influence creates unique advantages for patients. The entertainment industry is open about cosmetic procedures — with celebrities like the Kardashians publicly crediting their surgeons — and this has transformed plastic surgery from a secretive topic into an accepted part of wellness and self-care.
This high-profile environment drives surgeons to stay at the forefront of technique and technology. When your work might appear on a red carpet or in front of cameras, excellence becomes non-negotiable, and the result is a concentration of expertise and innovation not found anywhere else in the country.
Los Angeles surgeons have pioneered countless innovations, and they set the national standards that other regions eventually adopt.
This culture of innovation extends beyond surgical technique. LA practices have perfected the infrastructure needed to support traveling patients. Many Westside practices like Dr. Jaime Schwartz, MD, FACS, actively serve international and out-of-state patients, offering virtual consultations, concierge services, partnerships with recovery facilities, and comprehensive aftercare protocols.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN SELECTING A MOMMY MAKEOVER SURGEON IN LOS ANGELES
1. Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
This is a requirement. The ABPS is the only plastic surgery board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties, requiring at least six years of surgical training after medical school, including a minimum three years dedicated to plastic surgery residency.
Don't be fooled by similar-sounding boards. There is no ABMS-recognized certifying board with "cosmetic surgery" in its name. Any physician with a medical license can legally perform plastic surgery, but only ABPS-certified surgeons have the specialized training. Verify their certification at the ABPS website. It takes 30 seconds and could save you from disaster.
2. Active hospital privileges
Hospitals thoroughly vet surgeons before granting privileges, checking credentials, training, and competence. This means that if a surgeon lacks hospital privileges, they might have suspended credentials, inadequate training, or inability to continue your care if complications require hospitalization.
Always ask: "Do you have hospital privileges to perform this procedure? At which hospitals?"
Your mommy makeover surgery must occur in an accredited facility: either a hospital or an outpatient surgery center accredited by AAAASF (American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities), AAAHC, or The Joint Commission. Accreditation guarantees strict equipment and safety standards, Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) trained staff, emergency protocols, and compliance with regulations.
3. Extensive experience with mommy makeovers
It seems obvious, but it's very important. You need to know that your surgeon has performed procedures like yours on bodies like yours.
Mommy makeovers combine multiple surgeries, so your surgeon needs demonstrated expertise in all components, not just one. Ask how many mommy makeovers they perform annually and what percentage of their practice focuses on these procedures.
Look for surgeons performing them regularly, not occasionally.
RED FLAGS THAT SHOULD SEND YOU ELSEWHERE
1. Insufficient credentials
Walk away if the surgeon is not board-certified by ABPS, is board-certified in another specialty (dermatology, OB-GYN) but not plastic surgery, calls themselves a "cosmetic surgeon" without ABPS certification, or has no hospital privileges.
2. Cut-rate prices
Prices significantly below market rates (20-50% lower) often indicate less qualified staff, outdated equipment, unaccredited facilities, or dangerous corner-cutting. If a surgeon has immediate availability or can perform surgery "tomorrow," question why. Quality surgeons typically book 3+ months in advance.
3. Shady tactics during the initial consultation
Watch for high-pressure sales tactics creating urgency to decide immediately, pushing unnecessary procedures you didn't request, dismissing your concerns, or guaranteeing perfect results all indicate problems. No ethical surgeon makes guarantees; all surgery carries risks.
If you only meet with an assistant and never the actual surgeon, or if they request full payment upfront before adequate discussion, leave immediately.
4. Deceptive before-and-after photos
Review mommy makeover before-and-after photos carefully. Red flags include different lighting and angles between before/after shots, on-table photos presented as final results (misleading due to swelling), heavily edited images, or stock photos rather than the surgeon's actual work.
Legitimate surgeons show consistent lighting, multiple views, variety in results, appropriate timelines (6-12 months post-op), and real patient outcomes including visible scarring at various healing stages.
STAYING IN LOS ANGELES AND TRAVELING FROM THE CITY’S DIFFERENT NEIGHBORHOODS
Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills is the heart of Los Angeles plastic surgery. This world-renowned enclave sits 10-12 miles from LAX (25-40 minutes depending on traffic) and is the epicenter of cosmetic surgery in Southern California. The famous "Golden Triangle" inside Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica Boulevard, and Canon Drive has more board-certified plastic surgeons per square mile than anywhere else in the world.
Dr. Schwartz's practice at 240 S La Cienega Blvd is just south of the Golden Triangle, offering the prestige and expertise of Beverly Hills with slightly easier parking and access. The location provides quick access to both Westside medical facilities and his adjacent accredited surgery center, with Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica just 15 minutes away.
The neighborhood offers luxury at every turn. Hotels range from the iconic Beverly Wilshire (yes, the Pretty Woman hotel) and The Beverly Hills Hotel ("Pink Palace") to more accessible options like Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel and Beverly Terrace Hotel. Dining spans Michelin-starred restaurants to health-focused cafes like Joan's on Third, Urth Caffé, and The Ivy.
Parking typically costs $30-50+ per night at hotels, with valet service standard. Street parking is extremely limited and heavily metered. The area feels less walkable than Santa Monica for daily recovery needs, making it important to plan your transportation carefully.
However, everything you might need exists within a 10-minute drive: pharmacies, healthy restaurants, luxury shopping (once you're cleared for light activity), and easy freeway access.
Staying in Beverly Hills is a great choice for a mommy makeover if you're already consulting with a surgeon in this area (like Dr. Schwartz), want the prestige and pampering of staying in the most famous zip code in plastic surgery, have a higher budget for accommodations and dining, or don't mind relying on rideshare or car service for all transportation.
Santa Monica
Santa Monica is a very practical choice for many out-of-town patients. Located just 9-15 miles from LAX (15-30 minutes by car) and a short 20-minute drive to Dr. Schwartz's clinic, this upscale coastal city combines a beach-town atmosphere with serious medical infrastructure.
You'll find hotels at every price point, from luxury options like Casa del Mar and Shutters on the Beach to budget-friendly Days Inn and Sea Shore Motel.
Santa Monica offers recovery-friendly amenities. The Third Street Promenade provides pedestrian-friendly shopping when you're cleared for light activity, and the extensive restaurant scene includes healthy options like Erewhon (organic market with prepared foods), True Food Kitchen (anti-inflammatory focused), Cafe Gratitude (plant-based), and Tender Greens (farm-to-table). The Metro E Line connects to Downtown LA, and the Big Blue Bus system provides local transportation, though Uber and Lyft remain most convenient for medical appointments.
Parking costs $25-70 per night at most hotels. Street parking exists but can be challenging near beaches and downtown areas. The community is safe with strong police presence, highly walkable in downtown and beach areas, and maintains that comfortable, picturesque vibe that makes recovery less stressful. Santa Monica State Beach offers 3.5 miles of accessible beachfront with paved paths for gentle post-recovery walks once you're cleared.
Venice
Venice is closest to LAX, about 12 minutes by car, making it ideal for minimizing airport travel.
Around 35 minutes away from Dr. Schwartz's clinic, Venice is known for its artistic, eclectic character, featuring the Venice Beach Boardwalk, Abbot Kinney Boulevard boutiques, and laid-back surfer culture. Venice lacks the medical facilities of nearby areas, so most patients prefer to work with surgeons in places like Beverly Hills and Santa Monica.
If you'd prefer to stay in Venice, the area is very walkable, safe during daytime, and features excellent restaurants and health-focused cafes. Like Santa Monica, parking can be challenging, especially near the beach.
If proximity to LAX is your primary concern and you don't mind the quirky atmosphere, Venice is hard to beat.
Century City
Century City offers convenience from a central location. It's 8-10 miles from LAX with excellent freeway access to I-405 and I-10, and just 15 minutes from Dr. Schwartz's Beverly Hills clinic.
Westfield Century City mall provides luxury shopping (Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's) and dining options.
The tradeoff: Century City feels more corporate than coastal. High-rise office buildings and luxury condominiums create a business atmosphere rather than a resort environment. The area is less walkable for daily needs and more car-dependent than beach communities, though it's safe and well-maintained.
Hotel options within Century City proper are limited, with many in adjacent areas, but those recovering here appreciate the quiet weekday environment and central positioning between Westside and Valley locations.
West Hollywood
This vibrant neighborhood is packed with urban energy, LGBTQ+ culture, shopping along Melrose Avenue, and the famous Sunset Strip. With a Walk Score of 91 — the highest in California — West Hollywood excels at walkability. The Cityline shuttle, WeHo PickUp trolley (free on weekends), and multiple bus routes make getting around easy without a car.
West Hollywood is 30-45 minutes from LAX, depending on traffic, and about 15 minutes from Dr. Schwartz's clinic.
Parking is challenging with permit-only residential areas and valet fees of $27-75 per night at hotels. This neighborhood suits patients wanting an urban experience and an energetic vibe for their recovery period.
Pasadena
This charming historic city northeast of Los Angeles is a low-key, family-oriented alternative with tree-lined streets. The significantly lower cost of hotels and dining compared to Westside locations appeals to budget-conscious patients.
The major drawback: it's a drive. It's about 45 minutes to an hour from Dr. Schwartz's clinic, and the drive to LAX takes anywhere from 35 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on traffic.
Pasadena works much better for patients flying into Burbank Airport (much closer) or driving from other areas. For those not prioritizing LAX proximity, the area offers easier parking, safer residential neighborhoods, beautiful settings for post-surgery walks, and a quieter atmosphere.
ACCOMMODATIONS FOR PATIENTS TRAVELING TO LOS ANGELES
The extent of your mommy makeover determines your recovery needs, and Dr. Schwartz's office will coordinate the appropriate level of post-operative care based on the procedures you're having performed.
For comprehensive mommy makeovers combining multiple procedures, we typically arrange stays at specialized recovery facilities that provide 24/7 medical support during your critical first days of healing.
These boutique recovery centers provide round-the-clock licensed nursing with private nurses monitoring your progress, meals customized to your dietary needs and restrictions, secure transportation to and from all follow-up appointments, and amenities designed specifically for surgical recovery including medication management, wound care, and mobility assistance.
One recommended option is Immortelle Med, which offers licensed post-surgical care in a luxury five-star setting at the Four Seasons Beverly Hills. Their recovery suites (Deluxe Room, Studio Suite, and California Suite) feature adjustable beds, BLS and ACLS certified personnel, and onsite diagnostic equipment including ultrasound, EKG, and X-ray. The facility maintains acuity-based nurse-to-patient care ratios, 24/7 concierge pharmacy access, and post-operative transportation services. Optional wellness services include lymphatic massage, IV therapies, photobiomodulation light therapy, and home transition care.
The decision depends on your specific surgical plan. During your consultation, we'll discuss which recovery option makes the most sense for your procedures. Those having less extensive procedures may do well recovering at a hotel with a caregiver present.
Staying in Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills is home to luxurious hotels and a number of renowned restaurants, and it works best for patients who prioritize proximity to specific surgeons practicing in the area, prefer a luxury urban environment over beach atmosphere, have larger budgets for premium accommodations, and don't mind relying on rideshare for all transportation.
The neighborhood's medical infrastructure is excellent, but consider whether the higher costs and urban energy align with your recovery needs versus the more relaxed coastal alternatives.
The area feels more urban and bustling than restful coastal neighborhoods, and you'll need rideshare for most errands since walkability is limited outside the main shopping district.
Staying in Santa Monica
Santa Monica hotels span all budgets. Luxury wellness-focused properties offer amenities like rooftop yoga, spa services with specialized treatments, recovery suites with saunas and cold plunges, wellness rooms, and expansive fitness centers — ideal for patients prioritizing comfort during recovery.
Mid-range chain hotels near I-405 and UCLA Medical Center typically include free WiFi, complimentary breakfast, and fitness centers. These properties balance affordability with convenience, placing you within 3 miles of Santa Monica Beach and major medical facilities. Budget-friendly independent hotels and motels provide basic accommodations at lower price points, many with strong ratings from travelers.
Staying in Century City
West LA properties near Westwood and UCLA feature spacious rooms and loft-style suites with modern amenities and complimentary high-speed internet. Parking typically runs $35-40/night, with convenient access to Century City shopping, Rodeo Drive, and Santa Monica Beach.
Staying in West Hollywood
Expect trendy, modern accommodations with premium pricing and valet parking. Some packages include parking credits or hotel credits. Street parking is extremely limited, making valet or rideshare essential. Properties near the free WeHo trolley provide easier local transportation access.
GETTING AROUND IN LOS ANGELES
If you plan to travel into Los Angeles for the procedure, skip the rental car, and use Uber and Lyft exclusively. This surprises a lot of visitor, but the math adds up.
A real 2024 example: three days of rental car plus parking costs $520, while three days of Uber/Lyft usage costs $190. That's $330 in savings, plus you avoid driving while on pain medication, can rest in the back seat, eliminate parking stress, and don't navigate unfamiliar streets while recovering.
LA traffic is legendary for good reason
A 25-mile drive can take over an hour during rush hour (so, also factor this into our driving estimates above). Fridays and Sundays see especially heavy congestion. When you're recovering from surgery, the last thing you want is wrestling with freeway merges and parking nightmares. Let someone else handle it.
From LAX to your hotel, choose the right option
All rideshare pickups now occur at the lot near Terminal 1 (take free shuttle or walk). Costs from LAX to Santa Monica average $31-41, to West Hollywood $40-90 (surge pricing possible), similar rates to Century City.
You can also take shared shuttles like Prime Time Shuttle or FlyAway for $10-30 depending on destination.
Private car services offer maximum comfort at premium prices, with terminal pickup arranged in advance. This works well for patients who want white-glove service and aren't budget-constrained.
Only rent a car if specific circumstances apply. If you're staying 7+ days with friends or family who will do all the driving, or going to areas with limited rideshare availability, rental might make sense. Otherwise, avoid the hassle. You'll be taking pain medication initially, shouldn't be behind the wheel, and need to conserve energy for healing rather than navigating LA traffic.
WEATHER AND WHAT TO PACK
First-time visitors are often surprised to find that it isn't year-round beach weather in Los Angeles.
Pack layers
Temperatures can drop 20-30°F from day to night, so that perfect 75°F afternoon becomes a chilly 50°F evening. Pack a light sweater or cardigan even in summer for air-conditioned buildings and cooler evenings. A light jacket helps with cooler mornings and nights, regardless of season.
Fall ranges between 50-80°F with rain increasing in November. In winter, temperatures can drop to the low 40s at night. Spring offers mild 55-75°F weather with occasional rain in March and April.
Dress for recovery
Bring loose, comfortable clothing. Tight jeans and structured pieces won't work post-surgery.
Button-front tops beat pullovers since you can't raise your arms overhead easily. Elastic waist pants, maxi dresses, and skirts accommodate swelling and compression garments. Comfortable slip-on shoes eliminate bending to tie laces.
Pack sports bras or post-surgical compression garments as prescribed, comfortable pajamas (front-opening), a robe, slippers, and all medications. Bring phone chargers, entertainment devices, toiletries (travel-size for flying), and light reading materials.
Don't forget sunglasses and sunscreen SPF 30+ (even in the winter — we have high UV levels year-round), a small umbrella (winter/spring), and a hat with a brim for sun protection.
TIMELINE FROM CONSULTATION TO FINAL RESULTS
It's best to plan your mommy makeover at least 6 months in advance, though it's possible to work on tighter schedules if needed.
Fall and winter often work best: Cooler weather feels more comfortable with compression garments, you're fully recovered by spring and summer, and you'll have reduced UV exposure during your recovery, which prevents major scars from forming.
Your initial consultation with Dr. Schwartz is completely personalized to you
Your journey begins with Dr. Schwartz listening to what you hope to achieve. He creates a comfortable, judgment-free space where you can openly discuss your concerns about your post-pregnancy body and what your ideal outcome looks like. This isn't a sales pitch or a rushed appointment. It's a genuine conversation about your goals.
After understanding what you're after, Dr. Schwartz asks thoughtful questions about your medical history, lifestyle, and expectations. He conducts a comprehensive physical examination with measurements and photographs to assess your unique anatomy. Then, working collaboratively with you, he develops a customized surgical strategy designed to achieve exactly what you're looking for — not a cookie-cutter approach, but a plan tailored to your body and your vision.
Throughout the consultation, Dr. Schwartz thoroughly discusses which procedures he recommends and why, realistic outcomes you can expect, potential risks and how he minimizes them, and the recovery process specific to your surgical plan. You'll leave with a clear understanding of the path forward and confidence that your goals drive every decision. From there, you might have follow-up appointments on the way to surgery day.
On surgery day
The usual pre-surgery prep applies here. You'll receive detailed pre-operative instructions including stopping all eating and drinking after midnight the night before surgery, discontinuing certain medications and supplements that increase bleeding risk, and if you smoke, being smoke-free for at least 4 weeks prior.
All of procedures in a mommy makeover are completed in a single surgery, unless there's a reason the procedures should be staged separately: Medical conditions increasing risks with prolonged surgery, extensive procedures requiring very large volumes of work, patient preference for gradual approach, or financial considerations.
Discuss this during your consultation. Your surgeon will assess what's safest for your situation.
Post-operation
You'll receive comprehensive post-operative care with multiple follow-up appointments to monitor your healing, address any concerns immediately, and ensure you're progressing safely toward your final results. Expect:
- Day-one follow-up (surgeon assesses healing, bandage changes, garment fitting, requires support person for transportation),
- Week-1 follow-up (incision check, external stitch removal if applicable, scar care protocol initiation, prescription refills),
- Week-2 follow-up (continued healing assessment, checking for fluid collections, garment adjustments),
- Three-month appointment (most swelling resolved, results assessment, "after" photographs, scar assessment), and
- Six-month final evaluation (full healing assessment, final results).
Out-of-town patients should plan for extended stays. Standard recommendations call for 7-10 days minimum in the surgical area, with many surgeons preferring two weeks.
The first 24-48 hours are most critical. You might have surgical drains for 1-2 days to two weeks, and it's also risky to fly that soon after surgery.
Arrange to arrive a day or two before surgery, stay at a hotel or recovery facility for 7-14+ days, attend all scheduled follow-up appointments, and receive surgeon clearance before traveling home. Consider returning for three-month and six-month follow-ups if possible, though virtual follow-up may work for some appointments.
SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION WITH DR. JAIME SCHWARTZ
Los Angeles offers world-class expertise in mommy makeovers, and choosing the right surgeon makes all the difference. Dr. Jaime Schwartz brings board certification, innovative techniques, and a patient-first approach that has helped mothers from across the country restore confidence in their bodies.
Your transformation begins with a conversation. During your consultation, Dr. Schwartz will listen to your goals, assess your unique anatomy, and work with you to develop a customized surgical plan designed specifically for your body and your vision. Whether you're traveling from out of state or live locally, his practice provides the support and infrastructure to make your journey smooth from start to finish.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us to schedule your personalized consultation today.