Body lift cosmetic surgery is designed to firm up the sagging skin and tissue in targeted areas of the lower or upper body or both to restore a youthful figure. Recovery is an important part of the overall procedure, and the patient should be prepared to take recovery seriously and follow the surgeon’s instructions.
During the pre-op consultation as well as after the surgery, the surgeon will provide recovery instructions to the patient.
Recovery period will vary from one patient to another depending on the extent of body lift surgery performed. Some patients may require both upper and lower body lift in multiple areas such as the buttocks, thighs, abdomen, upper arms, and breast, while some others may only need a lower body lift. Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides body lift to patients in Houston, Texas and surrounding communities and suburbs in The Lone Star State.
First Week of Recovery
The treated areas will be covered with bandages following the body lift plastic surgery. But most patients will be able to return home the same day of the surgery. Temporary drainage tubes will be placed beneath the skin in the incision areas. The nursing staff will instruct the patient about maintaining the drain tubes and emptying the collected fluid regularly.
Mild pain and tightness in the incision areas is expected in the first week. The surgeon may prescribe pain meds for a few days to keep the patient comfortable. Bruising will resolve quickly from the second week, but swelling will progressively reduce over several weeks or months.
The patient should take plenty of rest at home in the first week, but they are encourage to perform short walks and light activities to maintain blood flow.
First Month of Recovery
Depending on the extent of body lift surgery performed, the patient can go back to their regular routine or return to work in about one to two weeks. However, they should refrain from performing vigorous activities and lifting of heavy objects for the first three to four weeks.
Smoking must be strictly avoided during the recovery phase, and the surgeon may also ask the patient to stop the use of aspirin or NSAIDs for a few days. Compression garments should be worn as instructed in the treated sites to improve the results and expedite healing.
Long-term Recovery and Results
Patients who go through a successful recovery will usually enjoy the body lift results for many years. However, they should note that body lift is not a substitute for diet or exercise. If the patient gains or loses significant amounts of weight, the results will be compromised. The patient should ideally not have any plans for a pregnancy in the near-term after the body lift.
The patient should also maintain the schedule of post-surgical visits to the surgeon’s office as instructed. If any abnormal side effects are noticed, or the swelling remains persistent, they should get in touch with the surgeon. Tremendous, judicious, and circumspect female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas and nearby areas for body lift surgery.
For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.
