You will have mild bruising and swelling of the abdominal and lower back skin. There may be a “ruffled”appearance to the closure. This is normal and will flatten with time. It will be difficult to stand up straight for several days, and your abdomen and buttocks will feel tight. The contour of your waist area will not take its final shape for several weeks after the surgery. You may have dark discoloration from dry blood at your incision and this is normal. The belly button incision may develop some crusting that is dried fluid. This is normal and will be cleaned at your first post-op visit.
You normally can shower 24 to 48 hours after your surgery using a mild fragrance free soap such as Ivory or Dove. Avoid using very hot water. Your abdomen will be tender, so wash this area gently and pat dry with a clean towel. Allow the area to fully dry before putting on your clothes (usually ½ hour). No bathing in a bath tub until advised by your surgeon.
Your drains are held in place with stitches to your skin and should always be supported to avoid pulling on the drain.
The easiest method is to safety pin the drain bulb to your abdominal support or clothing. When you shower, you may temporarily “hang” the drain bulb around a lanyard. The “How to care for your drain” pamphlet has more detailed information. Drains are generally removed within 7 to 10 days after your surgery.
For your comfort, I recommend that you wear a support garment for 6-8 weeks following your surgery removing the garment only for bathing.
You will leave the surgical facility wearing a compression garment supplied by the facility. After your first post operative appointment, you may be able to transition to a spandex or Lycra waist and shaping garment if approved by Dr Zochowski.
You will gradually be able to stand upright over the first week. Many patients find it easier to sleep in a recliner for a few days after the surgery. You should walk every day but have someone assist you for the first few days. You should not lift anything heavier than 5 pounds or participate in heavy exercise for six weeks after the surgery. After six weeks, gradually return to you normal activities and exercise routines. Depending on the type of work you do, you should be able to return to your job as soon as you are comfortable. If your job does not require heavy activity, you should be able to go back in one to two weeks.
You generally should be able to drive about seven days after surgery if you feel up to it. You should never drive if you are still taking any pain medication other than Tylenol.
The most discomfort that you will have lasts three to five days, sometimes a little longer. As you feel more comfortable, your need for medication will be less.
I will prescribe a pain medication for you and may also have you take an antibiotic. Follow the directions on the bottle for their use. The pain medication will make you feel drowsy. Have someone assist you in your home and do not attempt to drive while you are taking the pain medication. A few days after surgery most patients will find that Tylenol will take care of the discomfort. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen (Motrin) for five days after the surgery.
Do not drink alcohol for five days after your surgery or while taking narcotic pain medicines.
You will normally be seen in the office within one week of your surgery and then at about two weeks, six weeks, and six months after surgery to monitor healing. Additional appointments may be necessary.
Urgent problems after a body lift do not occur frequently. These are the complications that will require a change in your post-operative care:
Hematoma (blood collecting under your incisions) can occur within a few days of your surgery. The warning signs are:
- Severe pain that does not respond to medication
- Significant swelling in your abdomen or buttocks
- Excessive or growing bruising
Infection is rare following body lift. It is normal to have a small amount of drainage from the incisions and around your belly button for a few days. Signs of infection are:
- Increased temperature
- Increasing drainage from the incisions
- Increasing redness around the incisions
Leg swelling with or without associated pain may indicate a problem with the vein circulation in your leg(s). Although some swelling is to be expected due to your surgery, intravenous fluids given to you during the surgery and your decreased level of activity, this swelling is normally mild, painless and affects both legs evenly. If you have a large amount of leg swelling (either one or both legs) or if you experience pain in your legs contact the office immediately.
Breathing problems after a body lift are rare but can be a serious complication. If you develop any chest and/or back pain or the feeling of being short of breath you must contact my office or be seen in the nearest emergency medical facility without delay.
Medication reactions may occur with the drugs prescribed for you. If you develop a skin rash, itching, vomiting, or diarrhea, stop taking your medication and contact the office.
If you have any of the above problems or other questions, contact the office.
Start your diet with clear liquids or a light soup. Most people can resume a normal diet the day after surgery. Advance your diet as tolerated to your regular diet over the next 24 hours.
You may experience some constipation as a result of the pain medication. Over the counter laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia or a stool softener is recommended. If this is not sufficient, then dulcolax or suppository may be necessary. These can be purchased over the counter at the pharmacy.
Mild activity is encouraged in the first few post-operative days. Walking short distances is fine, no lifting, pushing or pulling. Being active after surgery is important in preventing formation of blood clots. You should refrain from high impact or heavy exercise for 4-6 weeks or when advised by the doctor.
Leave the surgical bra and gauze dressings on for 24 hours. After 24 hours, you may remove the surgical bra and dressings to shower. After showering, please pat yourself dry, reapply clean gauze and the surgical bra. The surgical bra should be worn continuously until advised by the doctor.
Any residual surgical soap (yellow) or marker can be gently removed with rubbing alcohol.
Slight swelling, bruising, redness and of the skin is normal and will resolve over time. If one breast (or both) is markedly swollen, tender, and bruised call your surgeon. This may reflect a collection of flood in the surgical pocket.
Showers can be taken the day after surgery. Remove the surgical bra and dressings for the shower and replace the bra and other dressings after drying.
Pain medication will be prescribed to manage post operative pain. Do not drive until you are no longer taking the narcotics (and muscle relaxants) and you are free of significant pain. If you do not need narcotic pain medication to manage your pain, Extra Strength Tylenol is an acceptable over the counter option.
If there is a problem, please call the office. If after hours, the service will contact the Dr Zochowski. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.
The most common emergencies that might need attention are:
- Nausea that lasts 4 hours or more and does not respond to medication
- Bleeding that is persistent and uncontrolled
- Sudden enlargement and/or pain of one side with bruising
- High fever lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain that is considerably worse on one side
- Leg swelling
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please call us as well.
Follow-up is typically in about 7 days and should be scheduled by calling the office at (614) 604-7820 if it has not already been arranged.
Most people can resume a normal diet the evening of surgery. If you feel queasy or nauseated, start with clear liquids or soup. Advance your diet as tolerated to a regular diet. You may experience some constipation as a result of the pain medication. Over the counter laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia or a stool softener is recommended. If this is not sufficient, dulcolax or a suppository may be necessary.
Walking short distances is encouraged in the first few days after surgery. No lifting, pushing or pulling in the first week post-op. Mild physical exercise can be resumed as directed by the doctor after your first post- operative appointment. Please refrain from high impact or heavy exercise until released to do so, up to 4 weeks.
Leave all dressings and the surgical bra in place for 24 to 48 hours. After 24 to 48 hours, you may remove the gauze and bra for a brief period of time to shower. Following a shower, pat yourself dry, apply clean gauze and the surgical bra. Any residual surgical soap (yellow) or marker can be gently removed with rubbing alcohol.
Swelling, bruising, redness and of the skin is normal and will resolve over time. Many patients have drainage from the bottom of the breasts were the incisions come together. This drainage is quite normal and may be bloody, yellow or clear in color.
Showers can be taken after two days. Remove the surgical bra and dressings for the shower and replace with clean gauze and the surgical bra after patting dry.
Take the narcotic pain medication as prescribed to manage post operative pain. Do not drive until you are no longer taking the narcotics and are free of significant pain. When a narcotic is no longer needed to manage pain, Extra Strength Tylenol is an acceptable substitute.
If there is any concerns, please call the office (614) 604-7820. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.
The most common emergencies that might need attention are:
- Nausea that lasts 4 hours or more and does not respond to medication
- Bleeding that is persistent and uncontrolled
- Sudden enlargement and/or pain of one side with bruising
- High fever lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain that is considerably worse on one side
- Leg swelling
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please call us as well.
Follow-up is typically in 7-10 days and should be scheduled by calling our office at (614) 604-7820 if it has not already been arranged.
Most people can resume a normal diet the evening of surgery y. If you feel queasy or nauseated, start with clear liquids or soup. Advance your diet as tolerated to a regular diet. You may experience some constipation as a result of the pain medication. Over the counter laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia or stool softener is recommended. If this is not sufficient, then dulcolax or a suppository may be necessary. This can be purchased over the counter at your pharmacy.
Mild activity is encouraged during the first few post-operative days. Walking short distances is fine, however no lifting, pushing or pulling. Moderate physical exercise can be resumed when recommended by the doctor, usually 3-4 weeks post op. Please refrain from high impact or heavy exercise until released to do so.
Leave all dressings and the surgical bra in place for two days. After 2 days you may remove the gauze and bra for a brief period of time to shower. Following a shower, apply clean gauze to the incisions and put the surgical bra on. The surgical bra should be worn at all times until the doctor advises otherwise.
Any residual surgical soap (yellow) or marker can be gently removed with rubbing alcohol.
Swelling, bruising, redness and of the skin is normal and will resolve over time. Many patients have drainage from the bottom of the breasts were the incisions often come together. This drainage is quite nor mal and may be bloody, yellow or clear in color.
Showers can be taken after two days. Remove the surgical bra and dressings for the shower and replace the bra and clean dressings after drying. If you have drains, please secure the drains to something while in the shower, do not allow the drains to hang.
Pain medication will be prescribed to manage post operative pain. Do not drive until you are no longer taking the narcotics and are free of significant pain. If you do not need prescribed pain medication, Extra Strength Tylenol is an acceptable over-the-counter option.
If there is a problem, please call our office (614) 604-7820. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.
The most common emergencies that might need attention are:
- Nausea that lasts 4 hours or more and does not respond to medication
- Bleeding that is persistent and uncontrolled
- Sudden enlargement and/or pain of one side with bruising
- High fever lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain that is considerably worse on one side
- Leg swelling
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please call us as well.
Follow-up is typically in 7-10 days and should be scheduled by calling our office at (614) 604-7820 if it has not already been arranged.
Most people can resume a normal diet the evening of surgery. If you feel queasy or nauseated, start with clear liquids or soup. Advance your diet as tolerated to a regular diet. You may experience some constipation as a result of the pain medication. Over the counter laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia or a stool softener is recommended. If this is no t sufficient, dulcolax or a suppository may be necessary.
Walking short distances is encouraged in the first few days after surgery. No lifting, pushing or pulling in the first week post-op. Mild physical exercise can be resumed as directed by the doctor after your first post- operative appointment. Please refrain from high impact or heavy exercise until released to do so, up to 4 weeks.
Leave all dressings and the surgery bra in place for 24 to 48 hours. After 24 to 48 hours, you may remove the gauze and bra for a brief period of time to shower. Following a shower, pat yourself dry, apply clean gauze and the surgical bra. Any residual surgical soap (yellow) or marker can be gently removed with warm soap and water.
Swelling, bruising, redness and of the skin is normal and will resolve over time. Many patients have drainage from the bottom of the breasts were the incisions come together. This drainage is quite normal and may be bloody, yellow or clear in color.
Showers can be taken after two days. Remove the surgical bra and dressings to shower and replace with clean gauze and the surgical bra after patting dry.
To manage post operative pain, Dr. Zochowski will prescribe pain medication to be taken as prescribed. Do not drive while you are taking pain medication/narcotics and experiencing significant pain. When narcotics are no longer needed to manage pain, Extra Strength Tylenol is an acceptable substitute.
If there are any concerns, please call the office (614) 604-7820. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.
The most common emergencies that might need attention are:
- Nausea that lasts 4 hours or more and does not respond to medication
- Bleeding that is persistent and uncontrolled
- Sudden enlargement and/or pain of one side with bruising
- High fever lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain that is considerably worse on one side
- Leg swelling
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please notify us or have the emergency room staff call Dr Zochowski to provide guidance for your care.
A follow up appointment is typically scheduled 7-10 days post operatively. If you do not have a follow up appointment scheduled, please call the office at (614) 604-7820 to schedule.
Start your diet with clear liquids or a light soup. Most people can resume a normal diet the day after surgery. Advance your diet as tolerated to your regular diet over the next 24 hours.
You may experience some constipation as a result of the pain medication. Over the counter laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia or a stool softener. If this is not sufficient, then dulcolax or suppository may be necessary. These can be purchased over the counter at the pharmacy.
On the day of surgery and for 2 days after, please avoid exertion, straining, bending or lifting. I encourage you to be modestly active after the first few post-operative days. Walking is perfect. Avoid exercise until we discuss it at your first post op visit. Do not use the operated hand for exercise until we discuss this at the first post op visit.
Open and close the fingers and thumb 10 times each hour to keep the joints moving and help reduce swelling.
Do not apply pressure to the palm of your operated hand (activities like using a cane or walker). This may cause splitting of your suture line.
Elevate the hand to help reduce swelling and pain. The hand should be held at a level above your heart. When sleeping, prop the hand up on pillows.
Keep the bulky dressing on and dry for 2 days. If you shower, cover the hand with a plastic bag and a rubber band. After 2 days you may remove the dressing. At this point you will notice a suture line. After 2 days, and the removal of the dressing, you should begin to wash the hand at least twice daily with soap and water. Then apply bacitracin (or other antibacterial ointment) and a band-aid.
You may notice some numbness in the fingers after surgery that may last anywhere from several hours to days. This is quite normal and is from the local anesthesia we use in the operating room.
It is fine to bathe when you feel well. Keep the dressing intact and dry the first 2 days, after that you may get the wound wet. Avoid submersion of the wound in stagnant water and water of questionable cleanliness (hot tub, lakes, ponds, etc…)
Pain medication will be prescribed for post operative pain management. In one or two days you will probably be able to substitute Tylenol every 6-8 hours as needed. (Do not take the Tylenol with the Percocet, both have acetaminophen). Please do not drive until you are no longer taking the narcotic and are free of significant pain.
If there is a problem, please call the office (614) 604-7820. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.
The most common emergencies that might need attention are:
- Sudden increase in pain
- Nausea that lasts 4 hours or more and does not respond to medication
- Bleeding that is profuse and uncontrolled
- High fever lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Leg swelling
- Loss of consciousness
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please call us as well.
Follow-up is typically in about 7 days and should be scheduled by calling the office at (614) 604-7820 if it has not already been arranged.
Dermabond® Topical Skin Adhesive
Dermabond® Topical Skin Adhesive (2-octyl cyanoacrylate) is a sterile, liquid skin adhesive that holds wound edges together. The film will usually remain in place for 5 to 10 days, then naturally falls off your skin. The following will answer some of your questions and provide instructions for proper care for your wound while it is healing:Some swelling, redness, and pain are common with all wounds and normally will go away as the wound heals. If swelling, redness, or pain increases or if the wound feels warm to the touch, contact the doctor. Also contact the doctor if the wound edges reopen or separate.
- If your wound is bandaged, keep the bandage dry.
- Replace the dressing daily until the adhesive film has fallen off or if the bandage should become wet, unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
- When changing the dressing, do not place tape directly over the DERMABOND adhesive film, because removing the tape later may also remove the film.
Do not apply liquid or ointment medications or any other product to your wound while the
DERMABOND adhesive film is in place.
These may loosen the film before your wound is healed.
You may occasionally and briefly wet your wound in the shower. Do not soak or scrub your wound, do not swim, and avoid periods of heavy perspiration until the DERMABOND adhesive has naturally fallen off. After showering or bathing, gently blot your wound dry with a soft towel. If a protective dressing is being used, apply a fresh, dry bandage, being sure to keep the tape off the DERMABOND adhesive film.
- Apply a clean, dry bandage over the wound if necessary to protect it.
- Protect your wound from injury until the skin has had sufficient time to heal.
- Do not scratch, rub, or pick at the DERMABOND adhesive film. This may loosen the film before your wound is healed.
- Protect the wound from prolonged exposure to sunlight or tanning lamps while the film is in place.
If you have any questions or concerns about this product, please call the office at (614) 604-7820.
During your surgery tissue layers were separated from each other creating a space that could possibly fill with fluid. For normal healing to occur, these tissues must be in contact. Your drain safely removes this fluid from the space. As a surgical site heals, the size of this space gets smaller, and the amount of fluid produced in the wound decreases. Eventually the space closes completely and there is no fluid accumulation. The entire process may take only a few days or up to several weeks. Your drain is removed when your surgeon feels that the amount fluid collected over 24 hours is low enough to remove the device. That is why it is important for you to accurately record the drain amounts.
Drains have 3 parts: the drain, the drain tube, and the drain bulb. The drain is a specially coated white tube that collects the fluid from your surgical site. You cannot see this part. The drain tube connects the drain to the drain bulb. This clear plastic tube carries the fluid from the drain to the bulb. The drain tube is normally anchored to your skin with a stitch near the incision. The drain bulb is a device that creates a vacuum pulling the drain fluid into it. This is the part that you will need to empty.
All drains work on the same principle- Negative pressure. Be sure that the chamber is “charged.” This is done by collapsing the bulb with the vent open, holding it in a collapsed position reapply the stopper on the vent.
Your surgeon will tell you if you may shower. On most occasions it is OK to shower. When you do take a shower with a drain in place, you should use a rope or belt around your waist or neck and pin the drains to this by their tabs. This will prevent inadvertent dislodging of the drains.
Gently wash around the area where the drain tube enters your skin. Be sure the drain site is dry prior to covering with a dressing or your clothes.
In general, you should empty the drain bulbs two times every 24 hours or whenever the drain bulb fills up.
Sometimes the bulb may need to be emptied more frequently. Always record the amount of the drainage. If you have more than one drain, record the output for each separately.
You may notice that as you move around more, that the drainage may increase. This is expected within reason. The color may change from dark red, to a thinner yellow fluid. You may also note some clots in the bulb. This is also expected. If you have questions, feel free to call your surgeon.
You may want to proceed with the following steps in your bathroom with the sink and toilet nearby.
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Hold the drain bulb upright and remove the stopper from the stem.
The bulb will expand to an egg shape. - Hold the bulb over the measuring cup. Turn the bulb over with the stem over the cup. Gently squeeze the bulb to empty the drain fluid into the cup.
- After emptying the drain, squeeze all of the air out of the bulb by grasping the bulb between your thumb fingers.
- Continue to squeeze the bulb. With the bulb completely empty of air, replace the stopper into the drain stem. When you release your grip on the bulb, it will stay collapsed.
- Secure the drain bulb back to your clothing.
- Look at the amount of fluid that was emptied into the cup and write down that amount on the record sheet provided. Be sure to also write down the date and time that the drain was emptied.
- Pour the fluid from the cup into the toilet or sink and flush the toilet or rinse the sink
- Repeat steps 2 to 8 for each drain if you have more than one drain.
- Rinse out your cup(s) and wash your hands.
* If you have more than one drain, always record each drain’s amount in the same column each time.
* Write down the date and time prior to starting the process of emptying the drains.
* Empty drains at the same times each day.
Most people can resume a normal diet the evening of surgery. If you feel queasy or nauseated, start with clear liquids or soup. Advance your diet as tolerated to a regular diet. You may experience some constipation as a result of the pain medication. Over the counter laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia or a stool softener are recommended. If this is not sufficient, then dulcolax or suppository may be necessary.
On the day of surgery and for 2 days after, please avoid exertion, straining, bending or lifting. You are encouraged to be mildly active after the first few post-operative days. Walking short distances is perfect. Avoid exercise until we discuss it at your first post op visit.
Keep your head elevated by resting or sleeping in a recliner or on several pillows in bed will help decrease swelling and discomfort.
Expect some drainage, swelling and bruising for a couple of days. Apply Bacitracin ophthalmic ointment three times per day to the stitches around the eyes and/or after every cleansing. Saline eye drops (Natural Tears – over the counter at the drugstore) should be use to keep the eyes moist at all times while awake and the Bacitracin ophthalmic should be used at night. Avoid mascara and make-up until we discuss this at the first post op visit.
It is fine to bathe when you feel well. Do not scrub the incisions.
Take the narcotic pain medicine as needed. In two days you will probably be able to substitute Tylenol every 6-8 hours as needed. (Do not take the Tylenol with the Percocet, both have acetaminophen). Please do not drive until you are no longer taking the narcotic and your vision is not obstructed.
If there is a problem, please call the office (614) 604-7820. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.
The most common emergencies that might need attention are:
- Sudden loss of vision or change in vision
- Sudden increase in pain, especially if on one side only
- Nausea that lasts 4 hours or more and does not respond to medication
- Bleeding
- High fever lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Leg swelling
- Loss of consciousness
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please call us as well.
Follow-up is typically in 5-7 days and should be scheduled by calling our office at (614) 604-7820 if it has not already been arranged.
Most people can resume a normal diet within 24 hours. If you feel queasy or nauseated, start with clear liquids or soup. Advance your diet as tolerated to a regular diet. You may experience some constipation as a result of the pain medication. Over the counter laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia or a stool softener is recommended. If this is not sufficient, then dulcolax or suppository may be necessary.
On the day of surgery and for 2 days after, please avoid exertion, straining, bending or lifting. Moderate activity after the first few post-operative days is encouraged. Walking short distances is perfect. Avoid exercise until we discuss it at your first post op visit.
Keeping your head elevated while resting or sleeping in a recliner or on several pillows in bed will help decrease swelling and discomfort.
Expect some drainage, swelling and bruising for several days. Leave the dressings and compression garment in place until I see you in the office. If the dressing feels too tight, you may make moderate adjustments to a looser position, or release the Velcro if wearing a chin garment. Avoid mascara and make- up until we discuss this at the first post op visit.
If you have drains, follow the drain instructions provided and record the output twice daily on the drain output record.
Please refrain from showering until the first dressings are removed (sponge baths are ok).
Pain medication will be prescribed for post operative pain management . Please do not drive until you are no longer taking narcotic pain medication and are free of significant pain. When pain becomes more manageable, it is recommended to switch to Extra Strength Tylenol.
If there is a problem, please call the office (614) 604-7820. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.
The most common emergencies that might need attention are:
- Sudden loss of vision or change in vision
- Sudden increase in pain, especially if on one side only
- Nausea that lasts 4 hours or more and does not respond to medication
- Bleeding
- High fever lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Leg swelling
- Loss of consciousness
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please call the office as well.
Follow-up is typically in 5-7 days and should be scheduled by calling our office at (614) 604-7820 if it has not already been arranged.
Start your diet with clear liquids or a light soup. Most people can resume a normal diet the day after surgery. Advance your diet as tolerated to your regular diet over the next 24 hours.
You may experience some constipation as a result of the pain medication. Over the counter laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia or a stool softener are recommended. If this is not sufficient, then dulcolax or a suppository may be necessary. These can be purchased over the counter at the pharmacy.
On the day of surgery and for 2 days after, please avoid exertion, straining, bending or lifting. I encourage you to be modestly active after the first few post-operative days. Walking is perfect. Very limited use of the operated hand is acceptable. Avoid exercise until we discuss it at your first post op visit.
Elevate the hand to help reduce swelling and pain. The hand should be held at a level above your heart. When sleeping, prop the hand up on pillows.
You may apply ice packs to the operative site through the dressings. Do not remove the dressing or splints unless specified otherwise.
Keep the dressing and splint dry and intact unless instructed to do otherwise.
You may notice some numbness in the fingers after surgery that may last anywhere from several hours to days. This is quite normal and is often from the local anesthesia we use in the operating room.
It is fine to bathe when you feel well as long as you keep the dressings and splints dry. The splint and dressings can be covered with a plastic bag and a rubber band to ensure that water does not soak the dressings.
Take the narcotic pain medicine as needed. In one or two days you will probably be able to substitute Tylenol every 6-8 hours as needed. (Do not take the Tylenol with the Percocet, both have acetaminophen). Please do not drive until you are no longer taking the narcotic and are free of significant pain.
If there is a problem, please call the office (614) 604-7820. The answering machine will lead you to the on call surgeon’s pager. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.
The most common emergencies that might need attention are:
- Sudden increase in pain
- Nausea that lasts 4 hours or more and does not respond to medication
- Bleeding that is profuse and uncontrolled
- High fever lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Leg swelling
- Loss of consciousness
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please call us as well.
Follow-up is typically in about 7 days and should be scheduled by calling the office at (614) 604-7820 if it has not already been arranged.
Start your diet with clear liquids or a light soup. Most people can resume a normal diet the day after surgery. Advance your diet as tolerated to your regular diet over the next 24 hours.
You may experience some constipation as a result of the pain medication. Over the counter laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia or stool softener is recommended. If this is not sufficient, then dulcolax or suppository may be necessary. These can be purchased over the counter at the pharmacy.
Modest activity is encouraged during the first few post-operative days. Wiggle your toes to keep the blood flowing in your legs while sitting or lying in bed. Walking short distances is acceptable. Mild physical exercise can be resumed in 1-2 weeks as you are able, but refrain from heavy exercise until cleared with your doctor.
Expect considerable drainage from the areas that underwent liposuction. This drainage may seem like a very large volume and mostly consists of the anesthetic fluid infiltrated used during the liposuction. It will look quite bloody the first day and will drain quickly during changes in position, such as sitting or standing up in the bathroom. The actual amount of blood loss is very small even though the fluid looks bloody. We recommend you take precautions to avoid staining your bedding the first couple of nights. The drainage usually decreases by the first post operative day and is done by the second.
Leave the surgical compression garment and any dressings in place until your first post operative appointment.
Swelling, bruising, redness and of the skin is normal and will resolve over time. Numbness of the skin is also normal and will improve in several months.
No showers or baths are to be taken until the first dressings are removed (sponge baths are okay).
Pain medication will be prescribed to manage post –operative pain. When pain is more manageable, it is recommended you switch to Extra Strength Tylenol. Please do not drive until you are no longer taking the narcotic and are free of significant pain.
If there is a problem, please call the office (614) 604-7820. you. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.
The most common emergencies that might need attention are:
- Sudden increase in pain
- Nausea that lasts 4 hours or more and does not respond to medication
- Bleeding that is profuse and uncontrolled
- High fever lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Leg swelling
- Loss of consciousness
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please call us as well.
Follow-up is typically in about 7 days and should be scheduled by calling the office at (614) 604-7820 if it has not already been arranged.
Most people can resume a normal diet the evening of surgery. If you feel queasy or nauseated, start with clear liquids or soup. Advance your diet as tolerated to a regular diet. You may experience some constipation as a result of the pain medication. Over the counter laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia or stool softener is recommended. If this is not sufficient, then dulcolax or a suppository may be necessary. This can be purchased over the counter at your pharmacy.
Mild activity is encouraged during the first few post-operative days. Walking short distances is fine, however no lifting, pushing or pulling. Moderate physical exercise can be resumed when recommended by the doctor, usually 3-4 weeks post op. Please refrain from high impact or heavy exercise until released to do so.
Leave all dressings and the compression garment i n place for 2 days. After 2 days you may remove the gauze and compression garment for a brief period of time to shower. Following a shower, apply clean gauze to the incisions and put the compression garment on. The compression garment should be worn at all times until the doctor advises otherwise.
Any residual surgical soap (yellow) or marker can be gently removed with rubbing alcohol.
Swelling, bruising, redness and of the skin is normal and will resolve over time. Many patients have drainage were the incisions come together. This drainage is to be expected and may be bloody, yellow or clear in color.
Showers can be taken after 2 days. Remove the compression garment and dressings for the shower and replace them with clean dressings after patting skin dry.
Take the narcotic pain medicine as instructed and needed. Do not drive until you are no longer taking the narcotics and are free of significant pain.
If there is a problem, please call our office (614) 604-7820. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.
The most common emergencies that might need attention are:
- Nausea that lasts 4 hours or more and does not respond to medication
- Bleeding that is persistent and uncontrolled
- Sudden enlargement and/or pain of one side with bruising
- High fever lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain that is considerably worse on one side
- Leg swelling
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please call us as well.
Follow-up is typically in 7-10 days and should be scheduled by calling our office at (614) 604-7820 if it has not already been arranged.
Most people can resume a normal diet the evening of surgery. If you feel queasy or nauseated, start with clear liquids or soup. Advance your diet as tolerated to a regular diet. You may experience some constipation as a result of the pain medication. Over the counter laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia or a stool softener is recommended. If this is not sufficient, then dulcolax or a suppository may be necessary.
For 3 to 4 days after surgery please avoid exertion, straining, bending or lifting. I encourage you to be mildly active after the first few post-operative days. Walking short distances is perfect. Avoid all exercise until we discuss it at your first post op visit.
Consistent elevation of your head by resting or sleeping in a recliner or on several pillows in bed will help control swelling and discomfort.
Expect bloody drainage from the nostrils for the first 24 hours. Change the gauze below the nose as needed, at first it might be as often as hourly. You may clean the nostrils of scabs and blood with a gauze or Q-tip moistened with water and/or peroxide. If needed, soften the scabs first by applying moist gauze for 15 minutes.
You may notice considerable swelling and bruising beneath the eyes, of the upper eyelids and occasionally in the forehead region. This is quite normal. If you have external or internal splints please leave these in place. If the splint falls off before your appointment, gently reapply it and secure with some tape.
It is fine to bathe when you feel well. Keep the nasal splint and dressings dry.
Take the narcotic pain medicine as prescribed. When a narcotic is no longer needed to control pain, Extra Strength Tylenol is an acceptable substitute. DO NOT TAKE NARCOTICS AND TYLENOL AT THE SAME TIME. Please do not drive until you are no longer taking the narcotic and are free of significant pain.
If there is a problem, please call the office (614) 604-7820. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.
The most common symptoms that might need attention:
- Sudden increase in pain
- Nausea that lasts 4 hours or more and does not respond to medication
- Bleeding that is profuse and uncontrolled
- High fever lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Leg swelling
- Loss of consciousness
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please call us as well.
Follow-up is typically in 5-7 days and should be scheduled by calling our office at (614) 604-7820 if it has not already been arranged.
Start your diet with clear liquids or a light soup. Most people can resume a normal diet the day of surgery. Advance your diet as tolerated to a regular diet over the next 24 hours.
You may experience some constipation as a result of the pain medication. Over the counter laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia or a stool softener are recommended. If this is not sufficient, then dulcolax or a suppository may be necessary.
Modest activity is encouraged in the first few post-operative days, gently exercising your legs while sitting or lying in bed. Wal king short distances in the first few days is fine unless the skin grafts are on your lower extremities.
Leave all dressings in place until you are seen in the office. You may notice some drainage or blood seeping through the dressings. This is quite normal and expected. Often the drainage is the result of the liquid used within the dressings. If the drainage soaks through your dressings, just apply additional gauze dressing to reinforce.
Any residual surgical soap (yellow) or marker can be gently removed with rubbing alcohol.
Swelling, bruising, redness and of the skin is normal and will resolve over time.
No showers or bath are to be taken until the first dressings are removed (sponge baths are ok).
Pain medication will be prescribed for post operative pain management. As pain becomes more manageable, you are encouraged to switch to Extra Strength Tylenol. Please do not drive until you are no longer taking the narcotic and are free of significant pain.
If there is a problem, please call our office (614) 604-7820. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.
The most common emergencies that might need attention are:
- Nausea that lasts 4 hours or more and does not respond to medication
- Bleeding that is persistent and uncontrolled
- High fever lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Leg swelling
- Loss of consciousness
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please call us as well.
Follow-up is typically in 5-7 days and should be scheduled by calling our office at (614) 604-7820 if it has not already been arranged.
Start your diet with clear liquids or a light soup. Most people can resume a normal diet the day after surgery. Advance your diet as tolerated to your regular diet over the next 24 hours.
You may experience some constipation as a result of the pain medication. A mild laxative such as Milk of Magnesia or a stool softener is recommended. If this is not sufficient, dulcolax or a suppository may be necessary. These can be purchased over the counter at the pharmacy.
Please wear your abdominal binder at all times. Only removing to shower, or wash if necessary.
You should remain flexed/bent at the hips to relieve any tension on the incision. This can be achieved by resting in a recliner chair, or on your side in bed with pillows behind you. For the first few days after surgery, you should refrain from standing up completely straight. Again, you do not want any tension on the abdominal incision.
Mild activity is encouraged after surgery. Walking short distances around your home to encourage healthy blood flow is important in preventing formation of blood clots. Please avoid lifting anything heavier than 5 pounds. Plan to have a caretaker available to help you for at least the first 72 hours after surgery. Do not resume any additional activity until your progress is evaluated at your first post -operative appointment, typically 1 week.
Leave all dressings, the compression garment or abdominal binder in place 24 to 48 hours. After 48 hours you may remove this binder briefly for a sponge bath or shower. Avoid bathing in a bathtub until cleared by the doctor. Following a shower replace the gauze dressings if needed and replace the abdominal binder. Some people find that a T shirt beneath the binder is more comfortable. If you have drains, keep the drain bulbs loose outside of the binder at all times. The abdominal binder can be washed in your home clothing washer.
Drains should be stripped and emptied regularly. Please record the output twice daily on the drain record sheet. Bring this record with you to your follow up appointment.
Any residual surgical soap (yellow) or marker can be gently removed with rubbing alcohol.
Swelling, bruising, redness and of the skin is normal and will resolve over time. Numbness of the abdominal skin is also normal, but will take several months to improve.
Showers can be taken 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Remove the compression garment or abdominal binder and dressings for the shower and replace the binders and other dressings after drying. Remain flexed at the hips during the shower, most easily done by using a shower stool or chair (an inexpensive plastic resin chair works well). Drains can be strung around your neck on shoestring or rope during the shower. Do not let the drains hang from the sutures as these may accidentally get pulled out.
Take the narcotic pain medicine as instructed to manage pain. Do not drive until you are no longer taking the narcotics and are free of significant pain. Do NOT take aspirin or aspirin containing products. Before taking Advil or Ibuprofen please check with your surgeon as this may also lead to bleeding.
If there is a problem, please call the office at (614) 604-7820. If it is after hours, you can obtain the on-call doctors contact information on a recorded message. Most issues are easily addressed and do not require significant intervention.
- Nausea that lasts 4 hours or more and does not respond to medication
- Bleeding that is persistent and uncontrolled
- High fever lasting more than a few hours and not responding to medication
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Leg swelling
- Loss of consciousness
If you feel the situation is urgent, call 911 and/or proceed directly to the closest emergency room. Please call us as well.
Follow-up is typically in 7 days and should be scheduled by calling the office at (614) 604-7820 if it has not already been arranged.
