Total Body Lift
Recovering from Body Lift Surgery in New York
What happens immediately after the operation?
Once you've recovered, you will notice a compression garment around your waist, abdomen and thighs. This is to provide compression of the surgical site to reduce the postoperative swelling and bleeding. In addition you will notice the presence of 2-4 tubes or drains which are usually placed under the skin to evacuate any fluid build up following the surgery.
You will find that the abdominal area will be quite uncomfortable and that you will have 1-2 pillows placed behind your knees in order to keep these bent to reduce the tension in your abdominal muscles. Likewise you will need to walk slightly bent forwards once you are up and about, for the first few days. You may gradually straighten up as the days pass.
Is it painful?
Pain and discomfort are subjective sensations but it is true to say that an body lifting is considered one of the more painful procedures. This is probably more noticeable when standing or and walking in the first few days following surgery. Thus for the first week or so you will need to take regular painkillers in order to minimize this.
What kind of after effects should I expect?
Following surgery you will experience considerable swelling and bruising of the abdomen, thighs and buttocks. The bruising usually lasts about 3 weeks. While most of the swelling will have dissipated by this time, some subtle swelling will still be present for up to 3 months.
What are the Scars like?
As explained the scar length will be substantial. These normally extend circumferentially within the bikini line. Although all surgeons try to suture the incision as neatly as possible, it is ultimately impossible to predict a scars' eventual appearance. In fact very rarely can these scars be described as hairline. You must understand that due to the normal healing response these always appear red, raised and lumpy in the first few months after surgery, but do tend to settle with time. However it may take up to 18 months to do so. Stretching and prominence of all or parts of the scar however can occur. If necessary, and when deemed appropriate, it may be necessary to revise a scar to try to improve its appearance. This will be discussed at the follow up consultations.
How long before I get back to normal?
Any body lifting operation should be considered major surgery, and should always be respected as such. Therefore you should expect a few weeks to pass before you feel yourself again. Remember variations do occur in the time individuals take to heal. Although many people go back to light work duties by 2 weeks others find it more appropriate to take a further 1-2 weeks to rest. Walking is helpful in the first 3-4 weeks as this improves the circulation and helps reduce the swelling, and the chance of blood clots developing. Heavy lifting or Strenuous activity is prohibited in the first 6 weeks after surgery. Overall common sense rules in the recovery period. If what your doing is uncomfortable then don't do it!