After care
Activity and Positioning
- Avoid bending at waist for first 1-2 weeks
- If abdomen treated: avoid sitting hunched for 2 weeks
- Light walking encouraged from day 1
- Support with abdominal binder if needed
- Gradual return to normal activity over 2-4 weeks
Swelling Management
- Significant swelling expected (peaks at 3-5 days)
- Swelling gradually improves over weeks
- Takes 2-3 months for full resolution
- Compression garment critical for swelling control
- Elevation helps reduce swelling
- Light walking improves circulation
Fluid Drainage and Bruising
- Some fluid drainage expected from incisions
- Drainage decreases over first week
- Bruising peaks at 3-7 days
- Bruising gradually fades over 2-3 weeks
- Change dressings if needed to keep clean
Incision Care
- Keep incisions clean and dry
- Showering acceptable if incisions protected
- Bathing: wait until fully healed (2-3 weeks)
- After suture removal: gentle cleansing acceptable
- Sun protection important for scars
Pain Management
- Pain typically manageable with prescribed medication
- Peak pain first 3-5 days
- Gradually improves over 1-2 weeks
- Take medication as prescribed
- Contact surgeon if pain severe or increasing
Activity Timeline
- Light walking: day 1-2
- Office work: 3-7 days
- Light activity: 2-3 weeks
- Moderate exercise: 3-4 weeks
- Strenuous exercise: 4-6 weeks
- Full recovery: 6-8 weeks
Special Considerations
- Drainage tubes may be present (temporary support for fluid)
- Follow surgeon's instructions for tube management
- LPG and lymphatic massage beneficial after 2-3 weeks
- Proper diet important for healing
- Avoid heat exposure initially