As with any cosmetic procedure, the surgical journey doesn’t end the moment you leave the care of your doctor. The recovery period is just as important in optimizing your desired results. To ensure that you yield the best outcomes, you must be committed to following all instructions your surgeon provides during the healing process. As always, for the best chance of a smooth recovery - PLAN AHEAD!
Abdominoplasty Essentials
Comfortable clothing, including sun dresses & a loose fitting shirt with a zipper or buttons (nothing that will require you to reach over your head to get dressed after surgery)
Long handled grabber
Slip on shoes that don’t need to be tied & non skid socks
Stool softener such as Colace
Plenty of firm pillows or wedge pillows
Tops & PJs with inside pockets for JP drains: Such as Inspired Comforts
Electric or zero gravity recliner chair. Check your local medical device stores for rental options
Phone & computer chargers nearby
Dry shampoo
Easy to prepare meals such as soups or casseroles
Saltine crackers
Electrolyte drinks & plenty of water
Bendable straws
Lip balm
Tissues
Puppy pee pads/chux for excess drainage after liposuction
Leg Massager for Circulation such as these: Leg Massager
Inflatable Brazilian Butt Lift Mattress for Post Surgery Recovery
A few tips
Prop a few pillows up under your legs and behind your back to make sure you are recovering at an angle - this helps ensure your incisions won't be stretched too far during the healing process.
Drink as much water and fluids as you can after surgery. Your body will be under anesthesia for a long period of time, which can make you feel extremely nauseous after surgery. Drinking lots of water will help your body flush out the anesthesia quicker and will help you feel much better.
Get up & move around-slowly, even if your movement is limited - it is imperative that you move as much as your body allows during the healing process - short walks can promote healing, prevent blood clots and will help your body bounce back to regular activity quicker. Don't stay in one position for too long! This will make your healing journey much longer and harder than it should be. Each day will get easier and easier.
Get up slowly. Fluid shifts can impact your blood pressure which can make you dizzy and possibly even faint.
Cover your bed or couch with chux/pads that are easily disposable to protect your bedding and furniture from stains - liposuction can cause excess drainage for days after surgery.
Holistic healing remedies such as Vitamin C supplements and Green Tea are great to boost your immune system and fast-track your recovery. Arnica & Bromelain (found in pineapple) can help decrease bruising time and inflammation.
*Turmeric is a great supplement for healing and inflammation, but it is also a blood thinner! Be cautious about taking it two weeks before and two weeks after surgery unless your surgeon has prescribed it.
Increase your protein intake and decrease foods with high sodium content. This helps with swelling and promotes healing of wounds.
Get ahead of any potential digestive issues by incorporating a probiotic and stool softener. It is common after an abdominoplasty to become constipated and have stomach pain due to the heavy medication regimen but incorporating a stool softener and a probiotic can help make your life much easier. Consult with your doctor first to ensure your probiotic is approved.
Make sure you are not alone for the first 2-3 days/nights. It will be difficult to move around and get things yourself for the first few days. Make sure you have a trained nurse or a loved one present to help you move around, take your medications, make meals, and ensure you are following all your surgeons’ orders.
Keep drain sites clean & dry. The amount of time that you will have your drains in varies, but always make sure that the sites are clean and dry. This will help prevent infection and will allow your body to focus on healing the areas that need the most attention.
