The post-op recovery
So what can I expect for my post op recovery? Of course it all depends on the person and the procedure. Most patients after abdominal liposuction can return to work in 3-4 days at light duty. This means no lifting greater than 20lbs and wearing your compression garment 23 hours per day. If you have the opportunity to work at a standing desk this will be more comfortable than sitting. Dr. Rivera recommends avoiding sitting for at least the first week as this can lead to permanent creasing on the abdomen. After a fat transfer to the buttocks sitting must be avoided for a minimum of 21 days and then slowly reintroduced. The grafted fat cells will take time to acquire a new blood supply and become permanent to their new location.
The first 1-3 days after your surgery will be the most uncomfortable. Sensations of itching and burning are normal. Bruising may become more apparent during this time with dependent areas such as the groin, genitals, and upper thighs. This will change colors from a deep burple to browns, greens, and yellows in the days following. Incisions will drain during this time. Output will look bloody at first and slowly change to orange or straw colored.
Days 4-7 your body will continue to heal. Most patients have a dramatic decrease in overall pain and discomfort at this time. Narcotic pain medications should not be required beyond day 4. Patients should continue to wear their compression garment for 23 hours per day during this time. Daily showers with antiseptic solution on the incision will help to prevent infections. You can start gentle exercise including walking and jogging at this time. We want you to be mobile!
Days 7 and beyond swelling and inflammation will begin to become more apparent and change from day to day. Patients can start lymphatic massages as early as day 7 - we recommend premedicating with tylenol or ibuprofen prior to these appointments. Hard areas and numbness may become more apparent during this phase. These will change and soften over time. Massage will help the scar tissue from surgery heal in a more favorable and pliable fashion.
~M
Mariangela Rivera MD
