Recovering From A Body Lift: Eight Things to Do
If you’ve battled weight loss and were left with sagging skin as a result, it’s logical that you would choose a body lift as your next step. This life-altering procedure allows those who have lost a significant amount of weight, through surgery or natural means, to address excess skin and unflattering curves once and for all. If you’ve been through the process or are preparing to do so, congratulations for taking control of your life and working to achieve a sleek shape you’ll be proud of!
We recently talked about the steps you’ll need to take prior to undergoing a body lift. Now, we’d like to give you eight important things you’ll need to remember following surgery. Recovery is a delicate matter, but you have the power to help ensure things go smoothly. Here are our pointers for an ideal recovery period:
1. Eat a high protein diet.
You may not feel like eating in the days after surgery, but protein is essential for healing. Drink shakes enhanced with protein powder to ensure you get 74 to 100 grams of protein each day.
2. Take a stool softener.
It is natural for patients to experience constipation due to the anesthesia and narcotics. On the other hand, if you have diarrhea be sure to notify your surgeon immediately.
3. Get plenty of rest.
Even if you feel great, make sure to avoid too much activity. Exercise must be avoided for at least two weeks, and get a full nights sleep every night.
4. Track drain outputs.
It’s likely that you’ll have drains in place immediately following your body lift. Track output so your surgeon can review it during follow-up appointments.
5. Use compression garments.
The use of compression garments can lead to a faster recovery. They are known to flatten scars and minimize swelling.
6. Take iron pills.
Incorporate enteric-coated iron pills into your vitamin regime to help boost energy levels. Some patients experience a lack of energy due to blood loss, and iron can lend relief.
7. Eat probiotics.
The antibiotics you take may kill the healthy bacteria that exist in your intestine. Encourage the growth of this intestinal flora by eating yogurt or other foods with probiotic cultures.
8. Follow your surgeon’s instructions when it comes to prescriptions.
You’ll need to resume your usual prescription routine according to your surgeon’s instructions, in some cases missing doses for a few days or weeks, but in other cases continuing your normal doses immediately following your body lift.