While some women see pregnancy-related changes as a badge of honor for carrying a child for nine-plus months, millions of other moms are seeking out the help of plastic surgeons for a cheekily-named “mommy makeover,” or a combo of cosmetic procedures including a tummy tuck and breast lift. In fact, the “mommy makeover” ranked in the top five of all procedures on women ages 20-39 in 2006.

Here is the skinny on getting your pre-baby body back.

STARS SET THE STANDARD

So, why the recent surge in surgeries among moms? Blame Hollywood. Hot mom celebrities like Heidi Klum and Brooke Burke (who both posed in teeny bikinis just months after giving birth) set the standard, and many new mamas feel added pressure to look young and sexy post-baby.

Take Martine, a 36-year-old mother of two. So unhappy with her postpartum bod that she refused to look in the mirror for months, she eventually sought the advice of a plastic surgeon friend. “She explained to me that there were simple fixes to all of my problem areas, like my sagging breasts, C-section scar, and flabby tummy,” says Martine. “I never thought about plastic surgery before having kids, but all of a sudden it seemed like such a great option.”

And nearly $10,000 and several hours later, Martine had a body worth flaunting again. In addition to a breast lift, her surgeon performed a “mini” tummy tuck, which focuses solely on the lower abdomen. Several inches of skin was removed from her stomach, tightening the tummy and excising stretch marks and her scars. “I was so happy to see my old body back. I am a happier person and a better mom as a result,” says Martine.

RECOVERY ISN’T QUICK

Like all cosmetic procedures, mommy makeovers are quite invasive and take ample time to recover. Doctors say to expect several weeks to months before you feel back to normal again, making running after your little ones quite the difficult task.

This factor, plus the somewhat prohibitive cost, turns many moms off the idea. While Martine had extra help on hand while she recuperated, some moms aren’t so lucky. “With all that’s constantly going on in my house, I can’t imagine being laid up for a few days, yet alone weeks,” says Jamie, 31, mom to 3-year-old twins. “I could only do that if I came down with a terrible flu, but I just couldn’t justify not being around for my kids because of a tummy tuck.”

AN EASIER ALTERNATIVE

And what are anti-surgery moms like Jamie to do when fighting the battle of the bulge? For starters, there is always good old standard of diet and exercise. Programs like Stroller Strides, are ideal for moms, as they offer an allover body workout that incorporates your baby and stroller in an hour or so of power walking, body toning, ab work and stretching. Or, check out these celebrity weight loss secrets to find out how leading ladies like Katie Hudson, Jennifer Garner -- and yep, Heidi Klum -- slimmed down after having their little ones.

Having a “mommy body” may have a changing connotation, but regardless of the route you choose to get your pre-baby body back, be sure to keep your health and your family in mind.

For more information on getting fit and staying healthy, visit the SheKnows.com health and wellness channel, and for lots more about pregnancy, birth and postpartum, check out PregnancyAndBaby.com!