MOMania

By momtoAlex&Max

April 23, 2008 7:50 AM | Link to this

I was wondering when we were going to get around this one.

I have no isses per se with plastic surgery; to each his/her own. However, I have issues with the title. It is almost implying that mommy is not beatiful unless she dumps thousands of dollars into reshaping her body.

I am pretty sure that all kids think they have a beautiful mommy even before plastic surgery.

By JJ

April 23, 2008 7:53 AM | Link to this

Theresa, In my opinion, I think this is stupid (not your topic, but the book itself). It sends the wrong message to the kids.

Mommy isn’t pretty until she has plastic surgery.

Her tummy got bigger and her clothes got tighter, so the doctor is going to make her look better. BAD!!! Try a diet, not plastic surgery.

Botox at 20, tummy tuck at 30, breast work at 40, face lift at 50. No thank you. I would much rather spend the money to travel than to make me look like I’m in my 20’s…..

I don’t want any plastic surgery, face lifts, etc. I plan on aging naturally and loving every minute of it.

By Belle

April 23, 2008 8:14 AM | Link to this

I think this book is silly and no I would not buy it for my kids. My mom had her nose done when I was young (she was hit by a basketball in her teens and had the damage repaird) She looked rough to put it nice! but she just explained it and I was fine. I got to play mommy for a few days to take care of her.

I don’t see a book being any more help in this case.

By Momof2Boys

April 23, 2008 8:18 AM | Link to this

IMO, the title of the book is wrong and a parent should not be taking their child with them to a plastic surgeon. Period. Instead of writing a book, this surgeon needs to prohibit children from his office. Visits with plastic surgeons involve dis-robing, graphic details, and pulling and pinching areas that I would think your child does not need to be a witness to. Do you take your child with you when you get your pelvic exam? I certainly hope not.

Now, of course, something should be said to children to explain Mom’s discomfort, different appearance post surgery, and general ability not to function as “Mom” during recovery. But, in depth details and a book aren’t necessary in my opinion. I had a lift and a tuck. My boys only knew that Mommy was having some surgery on her tummy to take care of some “Mommy” issues. They were very helpful and supportive during my recovery. And, had they probed for additional details I would have kept my answers to a minimum. Children do not need to know every detail. They are not adults. Certainly not when they are in the 4 to 7 age bracket. By the way, my boys were 11 and 7 when I had my surgery.

By Ebaby

April 23, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this

Hmm- this reminds me of all the people that protest/complain that Barbie drives girls to try to achieve her impossible dimensions. This seems similar only worse. Now everytime someone says that littly Suzy looks like Mommy, she will think- that must mean I need surgery to be pretty too. IF you want to get it, thats fine. DOnt tell your kids and see if they notice. Chances are, they wont.

By Jesse's Girl

April 23, 2008 8:29 AM | Link to this

I’ve actually had an opportunity to see this book. While I was doing press junkets, one of the DJ’s had one. Now…I have no issue with plastic surgery. There are plenty of very valid reasons to go through with something like that. But having seen this book personally…I disagree completely. It references mom looking like a beauty queen when its all over. It focuses solely on “mommy isn’t good enough, so I’m going to become good enough”. While most plastic surgery procedures are done to make a person look and feel better….thats not the attitude to take when speaking to your 8 year old daughter. This book overly glorifies it in my opinion.

By Anne

April 23, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this

Great. One more reason our kids will grow up with eating disorders and the need to feel perfect. Who thought this book was a great idea? I don’t have issues with plastic surgery, but I do have serious issues with how our media pushes “perfection” on society.

By CP

April 23, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this

I’ve never had plastic surgery, but would if money wasn’t an issue. After 4 kids, nothing looks exactly the same ya know. But if that opportunity ever came to me, I’d take it. I definitely think that young kids don’t notice / don’t care about the physical changes that mom may have done so much as the bandaged-up recovering mom.

If asked by my kids to explain why I chose to do it, I’d tell them it was a personal choice and that I wanted a change in my body. I’d also explain that if I had taken better care of myself when I was younger there wouldn’t be as much to be done, if any. That would stress to them that taking care of yourself while you’re younger is more important than surgery when older to fix it.

By CP

April 23, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this

Oh, & I would definitely NOT get a stupid book like that to substitue for a conversation about plastic surgery with me.

By 46 Chromosomes

April 23, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

I love this country so much, but I also despise it at times too. This book is just another example of the “me” centered vanity culture of America. Barf

By JJ

April 23, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

It’s such a shame that parents don’t teach their kids, mostly daughters, to be comfortable in their own skin, and their bodies and not worry about this kind of crap.

We are all made differently and cannot be perfect size 2 like Hollywood wants us to be.

I’m too busy enjoying life.

By Soulfinger

April 23, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Sad, just sad.

By Swangirl

April 23, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

Can we also have a book called “My Beautiful Teenager” that explains to teen girls why their insecure mothers have to dress up in mini skirts and midriff- baring tops to make themselves feel young and “hot”.

By Jesse's Girl

April 23, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this

I gotta be honest here…if given the choice…I’d have a tummy tuck in a nano-second! I know a lot of you tout the importance of being at peace with one’s self. And that is of the utmost importance. But if I could get my hands on the extra dough to have it done…and I wasn’t a teensy bit petrified of anesthesia…I’d do it! Done with some modecum of good sense and taste, this is no different than killing yourself at the gym. Each can be beneficial or harmful; depending on how you use them. Everything in moderation….

By NICK

April 23, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

Here’s an idea…..

Why don’t you tell your kids the truth!

You are insecure about the way you appear physically and you want to hopefully become beautiful in order to feel better. You also are craving attention and by altering the way you look will somehow have Hedi Klum banging down your door to appear on her show.

By Jesse's Girl

April 23, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

I think there is a distinct difference in having a tummy tuck and changing into the 6 million dollar woman! Of course cosmetic plastic surgery in any form is done to make you feel better! I think if you approach it from that perspective with your children, you’ll be fine. One has to be careful to walk the walk however. You can’t have surgery and eat junk all the time or smoke and drink incessantly. Your kids have to see that you are trying to live your life as healthily as possible. I mean lets face it ladies….after breast feeding and all of the other mom-duties we love doing….our “girls” aren’t attentive as they once were. And our bikinis are collecting dust..for some of us! If you are fine with that…cool. If not and you can afford it, have them attended to! Its such a personal choice. I would never judge anyone who chose to go through something like this. I disagree very much with the book….if you take a notion to do this, use common sense and show age-appropriate-honesty with your children.

By Akima

April 23, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

Thank you Nick, and AMEN!!!

Honesty, what a concept……

Mother to teenage daughter: “Honey, you are hideous, ugly as home made sin, and you need some plastic surgery to feel better about yourself, because you really are ugly and fat. Look at Mommie, I’m really 48, but I look your age and we can be friends and hang out at the mall after school, and maybe we can compete for the boys. Daddy has plenty of money for us to waste, so let’s totally re-arrange what God gave us, and we will feel MUCH better about ourselves. Since you are only 12, let’s get some botox too, woundn’t want you looking like some 15 year old hag. You can never be too young for botox.”

What a shame.

By One

April 23, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

Is anyone else not surprised that a man wrote this book? We love you (men), but y’all can be “one doughnut short of a dozen” sometimes! lol

By Momof2Boys

April 23, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Hey Nick, your are partially correct, I was feeling insecure about my physical appearance. Yep, I sure was…after giving birth and nursing two children. My objective when consulting with cosmetic surgeons was to achieve my pre-pregnancy shape. And, I did that, with the help of my surgeon, but only after fighting mother nature for 6 years with diet and exercise to no avail. My decision to have some “work done” had nothing to do with craving attention. I have always received plenty of attention from not only my adoring husband but from other men as well. The difference, now I feel great and I feel like my old self (before birthing children).

Heidi Klum has a show? I did not know that and wouldn’t know who she is if I tripped over her.

By anastasia

April 23, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

instead of teaching our children to excercise when we gain weight and our clothes dont fit, we’re going to teach them to get a tummy tuck?? i cant believe that life has gotten to this point!! im enraged that people have become so superficial. what ever happened to finding the beauty within?? society sucks!!

By 46 Chromosomes

April 23, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

Probably written by a nerdy doctor who re-invents himself as a Super Hero. Men writing about women’s looks, in order to generate money.

Good point; if the book was written by a woman it would never have had this tone.

By Jesse's Girl

April 23, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

Good for you momof2boys! I’m glad you did it for you!! My friend just had a consultation with a Dr Kavali here in Atlanta. She loves her!! She had triplets….ahhh!…and just wants her tummy and girls back the way they use to be. Again…this is such a personal choice and I respect any woman for doing something just for them. We are always doing for everyone else and usually we find that we take care of “us” last. I don’t know if I have the guts to actually do it…I hope so. I’ve jumped out of airplane before…but needles really get me!

By Disgusted

April 23, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

NEWSFLASH: If you are old and you have plastic surgery you do NOT look younger or more attractive - you just look like an old person with plastic surgery.

With that said, do whatever you want with your own body. But, parents, is this really a lesson we should be teaching our children? Shouldn’t we instead teach them that the key to looking healthy is to actually be healthy? Shouldn’t we teach our children to take pride in our own unique bodies and faces, and not alter ourselves to look like unnatural, factory produced, inflatable chest dolls?

And to be clear: none of my comments apply to victims of accidents or disease who undertake restorative surgery.

By Kat

April 23, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

Can’t….stop…gagging….

This is what happens when people who know nothing about children OR books decides they are enough of an expert to kindly share their ignorance with the world. (Madonna’s children’s “books” being a prime example.)

My prescription for counteracting the unfortunate symptoms induced by this book: buy your daughters a copy of A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon, and Stand Tall, Molly Lou Mellon by Patty Lovell and David Catrow, and call me in the morning. Or when My Beautiful Mommy goes out of print, whichever comes first.

Oooh…if the first two books don’t do the trick, follow up with a dose of The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch. No little girl could read all three of those without feeling beautiful and empowered.

Seriously, I have no problem if someone wants to get plastic surgery, it’s personal, just NOT a topic for a children’s book.

By new mom

April 23, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

Back in the day, before having our daughter, I had a list of all the things I’d change about myself. I was going to get plastic surgery after I was done having kids…but now that our daughter’s here, my perspective has changed. I have become more aware of just how many messages we girls/women receive about our bodies from everywhere and everyone. I don’t want her to grow up with insecurities, the idea that you’re not pretty until you put on makeup, or you have to be a certain size to be attractive. And as much as we like to blame the media, girls learn these lessons from Mommy first. If we Mommies are happy and comfortable in our bodies, they will be too. My goals for our family include: we will eat healthy—for our health’s’ sake, not to be skinny. We will be active—to be healthy and have fun together as a family. And I won’t be getting that plastic surgery, knowing that she will grow up thinking ‘well if my mommy got it, I might need it too’. And even though my body might legitimately need it more now, I’m not obsessing over it like I used to!

(and I know people are thinking ‘she must be a cow’…but I’m a healthy size 4. The size not as important as the healthy part!)

By Momof2Boys

April 23, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

Jesse’s Girl, I was also very afraid of the anesthesia and my mind was spinning with “is this important enough to risk not being here for my boys?” Of course the answer is NO, but the risk is so slim… and my surgeon helped alleviate many of my fears when he explained the process and the safety protocals, etc. As it is elective surgery they stop the surgery at the soonest “stopping point” if the patient shows any signs of difficulty with the anesthesia. And the anesthesiologist was wonderful as well. He made me feel as comfortable as I could feel at the time. I said, “just don’t mess up, I need to see my boy’s after school today.” He gave me a big warm smile, with sparkling eyes, and said, “I get paid to wake you up…not put you to sleep.”

I contemplated it for years and my only regret is not having done it sooner. My husband was an angel about the entire thing. One day while I was dicussing it with him he said, “honey, you don’t need any work done, there is nothing wrong with you” I said, “I appreciate that you feel that way, but I’m not doing this for you, I’m doing it for me.” He said, “ok, then as long as its for you, I’ll support you but I DO NOT want you doing this for me, I love you the way you are.”

Perfect answer.

If it is something you really want to do, go for it! You will love, love, love it! BUT, don’t look for a bargain! Be selective, feel good about and trust your doctor. You and he/she will spend a lot of time together and you need to feel great about and trust the person. I love my surgeon! I also appreciated that he insisted I bring my husband to several appointments to ensure my husband understood exactly what was going to happen, what he could expect the results to be and to make certain he would be supportive of my recovery.

By DEBRA

April 23, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

why is it important to have such a stupid discussion with your kid, it is not as though you are having you head cut off.get a life

By Ima Sheeple

April 23, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

Another example of how Madison Avenue aggressively markets vanity & shallowness to the zombified masses. We need to spend less time watching “Sheeplevision” & rags like “Sheeple” magazine & more time instilling values & education within our children.

By JJ

April 23, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

My daughter is a bit overweight. However, she eats very healthy, takes her lunch to school (salad & a piece of fruit), gets plenty of exercise, walking, with or without the dogs, 2 miles every other night, she mows our yard, etc), but still carrys around an extra few pounds. That’s just the way she is built. She has no desire to be a size 0. She is comfortable and confident in her skin.

That’s the most important thing. She is comfortable with herself.

I have ALWAYS told her how beautiful she is (she has the most stunning eyes). I have ALWAYS told her she can do anything in this life she wants. I have raised her to be a confident young lady. She does not want to, nor will she ever be, a size 0, 2, 4 or even 6. She is comfortable and confident in herself. She has tons of friends, male and female, and does very well in school.

This is what’s important.

By Lara

April 23, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

I got my breasts enlarged last summer, and my 13 year old son knew everything. I explained the procedure to him, the aftercare that I would need, and the reasons why I did it. Of course, his biggest concern was that his little friends would say that I’m not, but, other than that and worrying about long-term effects - he was fine with it. I think it’s always best to be truthful.

By Lara

April 23, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

I got my breasts enlarged last summer, and my 13 year old son knew everything. I explained the procedure to him, the aftercare that I would need, and the reasons why I did it. Of course, his biggest concern was that his little friends would say that I’m hot, but, other than that and worrying about long-term effects - he was fine with it. I think it’s always best to be truthful.

By Jesse's Girl

April 23, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

My…how judgemental and nasty some of you are getting about this! Why is it so impossible for you naysayers to realize how closely related this is to constant diet and exercise? IMHO…it is more damaging to your children to let them see you struggle with those issues day in and day out. Especially when taking into account how it can affect your self esteem. In a perfect world…yes, we would all be satisfied with our bodies after having our beautiful children. But some of us do not bounce back like that(snap). There is nothing wrong with doing something like this for yourself. It doesn’t make you a bad person. I know a lot of people who are in more need of personality surgery! And some of you are on this blog today! Viva la flat tummies, perky boobies and a fantastic sense of self!!!

By Momof2Boys

April 23, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

JJ - good for you and your daughter! You are right, how she feels about herself is what’s important!

By 46 Chromosomes

April 23, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

Those who commit the sin of Envy desire something that someone else has which they perceive themselves as lacking. Plastic surgery for the sake of vanity - not disfigurement - plain and simple vanity. Envy, one of the Seven Deadly Sins. Dante, your wisdom is relevant and applicable today….

By Jesse's Girl

April 23, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

Some lack common sense…some lack flatter tummies…heck some even lack the ability to conceive. Are the couples going through invitro living in sin? Give me a freakin’ break…

By Phil Kloer

April 23, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

Theresa: What are the odds. I am blogging about this exact topic today on the Book Blog! I can see why we both thought it was a great topic, but on the exact same day? OK, tommorow Im blogging about a new Book Festival coming to Atlanta. Hands off!

By RJ

April 23, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

Horrible book! I definitely would not read that one to my kids. I’ll be 40 next year and I’ll be doing what I’ve been longing to do for years…get that tummy tuck! Can’t wait!

By JeremiahWright

April 23, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

Just tell the kids that mom is a self-conscious, shallow loser with no confidence. Urge them to not be like their mother. That’s how you handle it.

By 46 Chromosomes

April 23, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Psychology would have some fun concerning the need for plastic surgery outside of disfigurement correction for the true motive contained within…. Religion would agree as well. “My mommy got her boobies done”, states the 13 year old boy to his friends. After which, her boys friend’s come over to take a look, as do the neighbors, as do Mom’s friends as they all admire her new fake hooters on a 40 year old. Mom must of course purchase new clothes in order to show off her Gut Suck/Fake Mammary/Chin Lift, etc spending even more money. The newly cut Mom of course will never admit this, but once she is healed she literally can’t wait to show off the surgeons handy work to the world as if to say, “ME”. The “me” society is alive and well in the land of America…

By gwardan

April 23, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

People that are to poor to get plastic surgery are the first to say its wrong. Get a job.

By Jen

April 23, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

I am waaay not poor. But I would never have plastic surgery, other than laser eye surger to correct vision, unless it was restorative.

And by restorative I don’t mean to my 20 year old self.

My reasons: self-esteem

If I need a boost in the emotion department I will just take a spin on my motorcycle on a nice day.

By Jesse's Girl

April 23, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

You sure you have 46 chromosomes?

By Josh

April 23, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

The pussification of America goes on. Instead of teaching our kids basic, grounded values we are more concerned about outwardly issues like freakin’ nose jobs. No wonder our boys are behaving like girls and our girls are behaving like boys. Classic wet dream of all you bra burners of the 70s??

Let us get back to basics, folks. Let us emphasize on values like integrity, politeness, civic mindedness, honesty, etc. Why should our kids have to deal with our complex choices like chest implants, nose jobs, etc.

By FCM

April 23, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

JG I am with you on this…if I had the money to do it I would have a tummy tuck before the sun went down tonight.

As to the ‘girls’ when I was younger I had a lump and they removed it….Prior to now I never noticed a thing….however I recently noticed that as I am getting older (and they shift) I am lopisided to a point that bothers me….I am seriously considering (once I have a job again, etc) having a ‘lift’ to make things more symetrical

By One

April 23, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

While I agree that this book is nonsense, all of the hatred and personal attacks are way more shocking than the fact that some women (and men) get “work done”. Why is it automatically assumed that anyone who does has low self-esteem, or just wants attention, or (as some idiot wrote earlier) just wants to look like their child so they can hang out at the mall and compete for “boys”, BOYS?!!!! I agree with the person who said some of you need personality “work done”, because I’m almost certain that belittling others is way more of a sin than altering your own body!!! Wow, some of you need some enlightenment………………………..haters everywhere you go, haters everywhere you go………..

By JJ

April 23, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

gwardan Money has absolutely nothing to do with this topic.

Get a life.

By Mamcita

April 23, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

What a crock! I’m not surprised, but I’m deeply disappointed. I guess it will never again be okay for a woman to look like herself.

By Momof2Boys

April 23, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

I am finding all of the ulginess on this particular topic quite comical. Some of you are saying its vane, a sin, that we are shallow, losers, etc.

Yeah sure, ok. Whatever get’s you through the day.

I am vane, yes I am. I like nice clothes and purses too. Oh, and shoes, don’t forget the shoes!! Love them! I also brush my teeth several times a day, shower and style my hair daily. I purchased a teeth whitening product from my dentist a few years back, so I guess we should count that as one of my terrible sins. But now that I think about it, shouldn’t we also count going to the dentist as vain. I mean, I only go for cleanings. Does going to the aethestician to have facials, count? Sure it does. Oh and don’t forget getting my hair cut, including high lights and low lights among my many flaws and daily sins.

Yes I am vain.

I’m going to take my perky breasts and flat tummy for a walk now. It is time for me to flaunt them to the world!!

By 46 Chromosomes

April 23, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

No, you tell them that Mommy is trying to look good for husband number 2. Of course, he must make good money in order to afford her (she has a price for that booty, after all). Next, Mom will pop out a kid from money husband #2 in order to secure 20% of his gross income for the next 18 years.

By One

April 23, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

Funny how so many men are trying to berate women for this, but they are the main ones drooling and looking when we look good (no matter what the reason). And what about a lot of these stars that men seem to fantasize about, guess what?

By Kat

April 23, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

I agree, this is getting ugly for no good reason. It’s no one’s business if you want to have some work done and you can afford it. If you have stretched out skin from multiple pregnancies or just weight loss, no amount of diet or exercise will tighten it up again. My point is that it’s not an appropriate topic for a children’s book. Kids don’t need to read about this any more than they need a picture book about hysterectomy, or hemmorhoids, or any number of things that happen as we age.

By .

April 23, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

I’m going to take my perky breasts and flat tummy for a walk now. It is time for me to flaunt them to the world!!

This speaks volumes about you.

By new mom

April 23, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

I too agree that folks are getting nasty regarding this subject. Instead of focusing on why mothers are getting plastic surgery, let’s remember what impact this might have on our children. Hopefully nothing negative, but how will we know? Like I wrote earlier, I used to think I needed this and that done…back when I thought I needed to look like what I saw in magazines. And after having a baby and nursing for 7 months, one could argue I need it more than ever! I guess the difference is now I want our daughter to grow up being OK with being real, being authentic, and I want to be that example for her. I love makeup, haircuts, etc., but I want my body to be mine. After struggling to have a baby for years, I consider my little tummy-roll a reminder of our little miracle. :) and I’m completely fine with it!

That being said, I am also fine with anyone else choosing to do whatever they want. I know several ladies who have had surgeries and I am supportive of them—it’s their right to do that if they please. But it’s not what I want for me (or my daughter)

By Jen

April 23, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this

new mom, I call those battle scars! We’ve earned them and they’re like badges of honor, or whatever.

Why in the world would I care about not showing physical signs of motherhood (ie, no longer a fair maiden)???

By Jonny

April 23, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this

Sweet.

By new mom

April 23, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

I forgot to add—JJ, it sounds like you have done an outstanding job raising your daughter. I hope I do half as good a job as you…a young lady that’s healthy, happy, and self-confident is a truly beautiful lady. :)

By lisa

April 23, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

When my children were 6 and 5, I elected to have a tummy tuck, breast implants and breast lift.

Afterward my daughter asked me why I did it, and I said, “So I can feel prettier; I haven’t felt real pretty since I had you two babies” She took it for face value.

Both my children helped me with my recovery (draining the tubes and what not).

It was not a big deal to them, because my husband and I did not make it a big deal.

My children (daughter especially) is far better off with me as a role model feeling secure in my looks than me looking out of shape and being ashamed of it.

Bottom line: I am doing what makes ME feel better about myself.

What is the saying: If Momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.

By Becky

April 23, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

Like most of the men that are berating women for this, wouldn’t have a penis implant???

By lisa

April 23, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

@ MOMof2Boys:

Was Dr. Munna your surgeon? It sounds just like him!

By Wow

April 23, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

This is getting out of control… what people do for themselves is their business not anyone elses. Who said you could judge anyone elses choices.

We all make our own choices good or bad, but as an individual we deal with the consequences. I am happy for those who chose surgery and I am also happy for those of you who did not, that was your indivdual choices.

As individual families we need to love our children, bring them up the best we can,teach them the difference between fantasy and reality, teach them not to judge, and to love themselves no matter what choices they make in life.

Purchase the book if it right for you… Have a great day..

By Momof2Boys

April 23, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

By - my comment was intended as sarcasm in response to those stating that we who choose to get some surgeon provided corrections are out to flaunt them to the world….sarcasm plan and simple.

By A. Nony Mouse.

April 23, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

When I was 7 my older brother broke my nose on accident. I am now over 40 and thought I was ready to fix it. I told my 13 year old I was going to take her with me and get the Dr. to make my nose look like hers. LOL. I think she has the nose I would have got if I had not been wacked. I would do a breast lift but see no need to go bats talking about it. She is built like me and will understand soon enough.

By Momof2Boys

April 23, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Lisa, no, his name is Dr. Davis.

By Leigh

April 23, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

You can travel with your $$ if you want to, but I’m going to stay home, have surgery, and be HOT.

By Leigh

April 23, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

You can travel with your $$ if you want to, but I’m going to stay home, have surgery, and be HOT.

By Racebaiter

April 23, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

Momof2Boys (poor boys), you’re a moron. You go to a dentist for your HEALTH. If you don’t get your teeth cleaned properly you can lose your teeth or get gum disease. Your have nose jobs because you’re VAIN (the correct spelling) and you’re a pathetic example to kids who should be taught to be proud of themselves the way they are. Ever watch Mr. Rogers? I feel bad that your kids have your as a role model, but sadly many kids have similar ridiculous parents.

By Grandma

April 23, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

This is THE most ridiculous thing I have EVER heard of. Why explain it to a child? They probably won’t notice a difference anyway. And if they do, the parent should be able to explain it without a book. This guy is looking to make money, not only from plastic surgery, but by selling a USELESS book.

By Caroline

April 23, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this

Maybe there should be a book on how Mommy needs a therapist instead of a plastic surgeon! Maybe we should teach our children self-love and self-acceptance of the aging process and how it is normal, natural, and a journey.

By Theena

April 23, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

Maybe you are teaching your daughters that they aren’t good enough unless they have plastic surgery. Maybe you are teaching your sons to value women who have been surgically enhanced. What sad messages to imprint on your kids!

By Mother of 2

April 23, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

If my mother had plastic surgery to look younger, or be more like me as a teen, I would be embarrassed to no end. I wanted my mom to look like a mom, and she did. She had her young days, as did her mother, grandmother, etc. I am nearly 59 y.o. and I have my bulges and bumps, but they are part of me, and part of the aging process. I’m proud of my graying hair, and I never lie about my age. (Plastic surgery is just another lie…think about it.) Teach your child how to feel good about themselves no matter HOW they look. I feel beautiful because of who I am on the INSIDE…not the OUTSIDE.

By Susan

April 23, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

I agree with Mom of 2. Because I feel good about who I am inside, it shows on the outside in my eyes, my smile and my attitude. (Besides, plastic surgery, just like our natural skin) gets sags and bags after awhile, and then what? MORE surgery? I can find more useful things to do with thousands of dollars, like taking my kids on vacation to make memories for the entire family, not just for ME. Anyone with kids who gets plastic surgery is SELFISH and self-centered.

By Together for 12

April 24, 2008 7:18 AM | Link to this

Plastic surgery? I’m only 13 weeks pregnant, and I don’t fit into my clothes anymore even though I have only gained 2 lbs over my typical weight of 130 lbs.

I have such attractive and wonderful sypmtoms too: acne, bloating, hair falling out, huge breasts with all those veins poking out. I don’t want to be naked anywhere near my spouse anymore, and you can forget love-making. I feel fat already and look horrible. The “glow” you get? Mine is from zits.

If this is how awful I look after just 13 weeks, I cry every time I think about what I’ll look like at 30 weeks. I don’t even recognize myself in the mirror anymore. And from all I’m reading, I’ll never lose all the weight. I don’t even have a child yet, and I already feel fat, dowdy, and homely. I can’t imagine how awful some of you probably feel about that extra 10 lbs that will never leave after having a couple of children. When I gained 5 lbs a few years ago, I looked pregnant and fought hard to ditch those extra lbs. I’ll look continually pregnant after my 1st baby if the “last” 5 lbs won’t leave.

Ladies, if you’re unhappy with the way you look and you feel like you’ll never be yourself again, I say go for it. Why spend life hating how you look and resenting your kids?

By motherjanegoose

April 24, 2008 7:35 AM | Link to this

“So I can feel prettier; I haven’t felt real pretty since I had you two babies” ARE YOU FOR REAL?
Lisa, take that to a psychologist and get back with us on how this affects your children. UNBELIEVABLE! Some of you are absolutely nuts. It is none of my business whether or not you elect this surgery but I do deal with parents who are self absorbed and this does leak out into your family. I am a large ( size 14) person and come from a family of large people. I was not always large and perhaps would be smaller if I worked at it but I choose to do other things that benefit my neighborhood, church and community. That is my choice. My daughter has gotten her figure from my husband’s side of the family ( he is not small now but their family is smaller) . I ALWAYS tell her that while she has a cute figure and a cute face THESE ARE NOT THE IMPORTANT FEATURES as life changes things. Your attitude affects your altitude. Even super models are insecure. I do not think there is a soul alive that is totally happy with their body. I am reminded how self absorbed some folks are…while there are those who are struggling with cancer or losing their job, there are those who are worried that their boobs are not perky enough! I am sure I will catch flack on this comment but so be it.

By motherjanegoose

April 24, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

I am fuming on this one and offer this comment… when all is said and done and folks are looking at you in your coffin…what will they say? * I am going to miss her cute boobs * I am going to miss her white teeth * I am going to miss her adorabole purses *I am going to miss her wrinkle free face

I know what folks will say about me because they say it all the time to me:

thanks for organizing this and making me feel welcome to the neighborhood thanks for throwing this picnic because we feel so much more connected thanks for sharing all of your knowledge about children, I am a better teacher for it Here are actual comments from my meeting on Saturday:

I loved the positive attitude. I also liked the fact that she spoke the truth

I loved the songs that she presented. Excellent Job Mother Goose! I loved everything. I was ready to quit my job, but I got rejuvenated with learning and I’m like new. Thank you so very much. It hit home. I love all the ways you can use just one song to teach different things like animals, numbers, transportation, foods, etc. Everything was wonderful. I haven’t been to a workshop this much fun in a long time! Great Job. Your ideas will work great in my classroom. Thanks!!!

I invest in things that can help others and so many have told me how much my tips have helped them too! Sorry my body is not a size 8 and tight…I have other fish to fry! Almost 50 now and realize that things do change and life is too short!

This was the best training I have ever been to!

By new mom

April 24, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this

Together for 12, please don’t be discouraged. Last year when I got pregnant, I felt the same way. The first trimester was sooooo hard, I felt fat, ugly, etc., and the hormones changing really amplify these feelings. I think I was at around 26-28 weeks when I really felt good again—my belly had gotten big enough to really make the rest of me look small! Plus, once you start feeling your little one roll around and kick, those feelings of being fat will melt away and you will be trying to show everyone ‘hey, did you see that? she just kicked!’ My story—I breastfed from day 1, and for me, it was true that it really amps up your weight loss. I had lost all my baby weight in 4 weeks and now I’m 10 lbs less than my pre-pregnancy weight. (7 mths later) Just eat healthy and take care of yourself—you can’t take care of your little one when you haven’t taken care of yourself. Even though I lost all the weight, I still have a little tummy-roll of fat, but it’s my little reminder of just how HUGE it was before. Like Jen said earlier, it’s my badge of honor (and it’s invisible to the public!)

By Jesse's Girl

April 24, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this

Hey ladies…I appreciate where you’re coming from, I really do. But your attitude that those who choose this for themselves somehow lack importance and meaning in their lives…is absolutely and utterly ridiculous. Its stupid in fact. Hate it if you wish…that is certainly your prerogative. But please stop laying such heavy handed judgement on those who choose to make themselves feel and look better with surgery. It can be a mighty hard fall from such a high horse.

By new mom

April 24, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

I realize there are those who are getting offended by the anti-plastic surgery comments (I have tried to be nice!) but I just ask that moms consider the messages and effects this might have on your children. Not long ago I read this article and just found it again. http://lifestyle.msn.com/familyandparenting/raisingkids/articleoprah.aspx?cp-documentid=5980998&page=1 Here’s another I just found this morning. http://lifestyle.msn.com/familyandparenting/raisingkids/articlesc.aspx?cp-documentid=6661446 Just some food for thought.

By Jesse's Girl

April 24, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this

I am far from offended. I simply wish that women could give other women the room and right to do as they wish. Changing the way we look isn’t some novel ideal. Hair color, tanning beds, tanning lotions, MAKE-UP, jewelry, support hose, high heels….the list is endless. And lets not forget the countless hours some of us spend dieting and exercising to make our bodies into something new and different. This is just another avenue…there is an awful lot of p** and vinegar out of those who think this is so horrible. If you don’t like it…don’t do it. But don’t sit in such damning judgement of those who choose to. Every single person that has posted on this topic does something everyday to alter their bodies….to “improve” upon what God gave them. What I listed above was once deemed immoral and a cultural evil. Yet, all of you do it….daily. You all get excited about the free gift at Clinique or Este’ Lauder. You all get a little sweaty with joy when you squeeze into those skinny jeans. The real food for thought is that none of you naysayers can see that you are just as guilty of “body treason” as the lady that chooses to have cosmetic surgery…

By new mom

April 24, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

Wow. I guess not everyone is trying to be nice.

By Together for 12

April 24, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

It’s nice to see that not every Mom is stuck with 5lbs x # of kids and that some can lose it through nursing and sensible diet/exercise. I plan to breastfeed as much as possible, and pump when it’s not. I hope it helps.

It’s tough for women who bust their butts exercising and watching every calorie to stay healthy stand on the scale and see that no matter what they do, those last pounds won’t leave.

I had 5 more lbs I wanted to lose before I got pregnant. I’ve been eating healthy meals, carefully deciding about every bite I take, and walking 4 miles a day. But it’s not enough. I guess I need to spend 2 hours a day and walk 8 miles instead with all my free time, right?

If I had the free time, I would, but as it is, I get in 4 miles during lunch hour every day. If it weren’t for my job, I wouldn’t have a lunch hour to use. So, if you do all this kind of stuff and can’t get to where you want to be, what are your options? 1) Do MORE 2) get surgery 3) continue to be unhappy about your failure to reach your goal

I don’t know about anybody else, but I don’t think Moms have time to put yet another hour into exercise every day, and if you eat too much less, you shut down your metabolism. That leaves options 2 or 3.

It’s a choice, and it’s yours. Nobody else’s.

As for explaining it to your kids? Tell them you had surgery because you had a problem with your stomach, breasts, nose, etc. that needed to be taken care of. If it’s a problem for YOU, it’s a problem. You don’t need to tell the kids or anybody else the details.

By motherjanegoose

April 24, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

Ran this by those with whom I worked today and all we educators can say is: the apple does not fall far from the tree…self absorbed paretns produce self absorbed children.
I am not opposed to the surgery…do it for yourself…fine… but when you are completely self absorbed, your children hear and see this. Little ears are big listeners. Please do not lay a guilt trip on those precious children. I have a C section scar and do not mind at all since I have a wonderful son who is in college and I am proud of him! I am not trying to be nice because it is not nice to tell your children that they caused your mishappen body…grow up! This is in the same category of…I wish I had never had you.

By motherjanegoose

April 24, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

Off to a meeting out of state. Jesse’s Girl…I generally think your comments are thought provoking and sensible…even when I do not agree with you. I believe you are a decent person. Since you travel, I am thinking that you should be aware of the fact that proabably 80% ofr American Women have not been to the Clinique counter ( myself included) or used Estee lauder ( myself not included). There are thousands of women who do not have time to shave their legs as their life sucks. They are simply trying to keep their heads above water and food on the table.
Metro Atlanta is one of THE WORST when it comes to keeping up with the Joneses. I truly have met those whose favorite store is Wal Mart and favorite restaurant is Applebees. Get real here…let’s worry about things that will actually matter in 20 years! I DO LIKE YOU BUT AM SURPRISED AT TODAY’S ENTRY…where is Jeff anyway?

By Father of an Only Child

April 24, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

Atlanta in very superficial in many of the upscale communities. I can understand a breast job if the woman is very small, a nose job on ladies if needed - but I know many of these ladies who undergo plastic surgery do it plain and simple vanity. I also know that the majority who have breast jobs, tummy tucks and face lifts like to show off their new look afterwards. What I don’t care for is “the beautiful people” obsession and trying to fight age. Child birth does harm a woman’s body, no doubt. However let’s be realistic: if you have given birth odds are you are probably not going to ever wear a bikini again; nothing wrong with that.

The cost of many of these procedures runs $5 to $10 thousand dollars, all in pursuit of looking good. I just don’t care for that mentality quite frankly. Give the money to charity and then feel good about yourself.

By Its an Opinion

April 24, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

If you are happy carrying around some extra weight good for you. That does not make you superior, smarter, a better parent, more giving with your time, etc. over the person that elects to receive cosmetic enhancements to make themself feel better. I haven’t read any ugliness or name calling from the bloggers who have admitted to having some work done. On the flip side, I’ve read many ugly posts from some of you who have made the personal choice not to have cosmetic surgery. IMO, many of you are just jealous that others have the finacial means to spend on these types of procedures.

By Cassie

April 24, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

“I can understand a breast job if a woman is very small…” Oh, my. I am not going to make any assumptions about your character, Father of an Only Child, but that really came off wrong.

Personally, as among the “very small,” I always felt I had an advantage because I can go braless, which is awesome, especially in the summer! IMO, being braless, even small, is sexier than having big honking DD’s with so much support they don’t even move.

By nurse&mother

April 24, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this

While I would love to (one day) have a tummy tuck, I know for a fact that I wouldn’t do this until my daughter was at least 20 years old. It is a double edged sword. I want my daughter to be happy with herself however small or big she will be. I feel in some way that I as a role model will not be setting a good example of being satisfied with who I am if I have surgery.

That said, I don’t have a problem morally with someone who decides to have surgery to correct something that really and truly has been bothering them and it’s something they have thought about for a long time. I think the negative connotation comes from those stereotypical women (not to say that men don’t have plastic surgery) that want the perfect body and have multiple surgeries to keep up with one of those mothers in her circle of friends who looks like a “trophy wife”. I will admit that I tend to look down on those women who already look fabulous, but feel that they need a little nip or tuck. It’s almost like they take their nice body for granted.

I think that plastic surgery as well as cosmetic procedures can be a slippery slope. I suspect it is easy to decide to have something else done whenever something else starts to sag.

I can’t imagine that I would have anything else besides a tummy tuck. Sagging doesn’t seem to bother me anywhere else.

I will have to keep on considering this for at least 10 more years (or longer). I may not ever decide to go through with it. But I can say one thing. I will not take it lightly and I will put a lot of thought into it before reaching a decision.

By Disgusted

April 25, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

I weep for the future.

By Donna Conner

October 27, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Why and how would kids that young find out about a tummy tuck? If they did or you wanted to tell them, you would have to go through the who speal of how mommys tummy got that way to begin with, and since you gave birth to them, they should not care and just be happy you made that physical sacrifice for them. If they do, you have more issues to deal with in your kids future. My sons are all grown but one, and they encourage me getting this done. I just can’t afford it.

By Donna Conner

October 27, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Why and how would kids that young find out about a tummy tuck? If they did or you wanted to tell them, you would have to go through the who speal of how mommys tummy got that way to begin with, and since you gave birth to them, they should not care and just be happy you made that physical sacrifice for them. If they do, you have more issues to deal with in your kids future. My sons are all grown but one, and they encourage me getting this done. I just can’t afford it.