What to do when you go home after a Body Lift

How long should I remain at home?

You should be prepared to remain at home for up to six weeks after your total body lift surgery and to follow all instructions given to you by your plastic surgeon. Use recommended painkillers as required.

What about dressings and support garments?

You may be provided with a medical compression garment to wear at all times except while bathing.

What about bathing?

Dressings are generally removed two days after surgery and showering is allowed at that time.

Will I have swelling and bruising?

Swelling and bruising will subside over the next few weeks.

What about caring for my children?

If you have small children they may need to be cared for by your spouse or another guardian during your recovery period.

When can I become active again?

Restrictions on your activities could include no exercise and no lifting of five pounds or more. Walking is encouraged after surgery; however, further exercise is not recommended until sufficient healing has occurred.

Most people require four to six weeks' recovery before returning to normal activities, and generally from six to eight weeks before exercising.

When can I return to work?

If you work and your job is not strenuous (no reaching or heavy lifting), you should be able to return to work six to eight weeks after surgery.

How can I prepare at home before surgery?

• Unless you have someone who can cook for you, you should shop for food and treats such as prepared meals, frozen dinners, puddings and such. You can also cook a few meals ahead of time and freeze portions.
• Instead of heavy 2-litre bottles, buy bendable straws and canned drinks.
• Clean your house - or have it cleaned. You are not going to be up to housecleaning for at least a few days after your surgery, and probably longer.
• Take out the rubbish, recycling, etc. so you don't have to worry about it when you get home after your procedure.
• Do all your laundry and change the sheets on the bed.
• Make a 'Things to Do' list (pay bills, change thermostat settings, errands, feed the pets, whatever) to remind your significant other what needs to be done.

• Purchase all of your medications, vitamins and bandages beforehand so that you have them ready.
• Place all medications either in a weekly pill case or in labelled containers. Mark the containers with the day and time you need to take them.
• Ask a friend or neighbour to look after your pet until you're on your feet again.
• Have a table by your bed or reclining chair prepared with all of your medications, ample light, bottled water, a few packages of crackers, remote control (with new batteries!) and your phone.
• Have a night light set up so you don't fall during late night bathroom trips. Medications can make you disoriented.
• Get some extra blankets, since you may get the chills after surgery.
• Place anything you usually need on a daily basis at hip level or on counters so that you don't have to reach up or bend down. This means canned and dry goods in the kitchen and toiletries in the bathroom.
• Have your dressing gown and slippers nearby. Get slippers with non-slip soles, since you will be a bit unsteady on your feet for a few days.
• Have a few comfortable oversized shirts that open from the front on hand, as well as some loose elastic or drawstring sweat pants or pyjama bottoms.
• You may want 'black out' shades or curtains at your windows so that when you do get to sleep - regardless of the hours - you can stay asleep.
• If you think television, video games, or reading are eventually going to bore you or stress your eyes, have a CD or tape player on hand with your favourite relaxing music.
• Put crockery, cups and other frequently used items in low, easy-to-reach places.
• Have lots of pillows on hand.

What if something goes wrong?

Once you're home, contact your surgeon immediately if you:

• Experience shortness of breath, chest pains or unusual heart beats.
• Notice any signs of infection.
• Experience bleeding.
• Experience a sudden increase in pain.

Above all, get plenty of rest and allow your body to spend its energy on healing.

Find out more

Only through an in-depth discussion with your surgeon will you be able to understand the risks, benefits and expected outcomes of this procedure.

If you would like to find out more about body lift surgery or arrange a consultation, contact us today on 08707 606 555, or by completing our online enquiry form for an immediate response.