Post-Abdominoplasty Guidelines

Post-Abdominoplasty Guidelines. What are the post-abdominoplasty guidelines? - These are somewhat generic questions, but they vary depending on the doctor and technique used. But I’d like to talk about how I do it with my patients. I like to advise patients to always be prepared for the first few days, to know that they will be much more limited for activities at home during the first week, and not to hesitate to ask for help from an acquaintance or family member. What are the dressing care instructions? - When I use a dressing with a transparent film, I try to keep this dressing until the follow-up appointment, simplifying these first few days and allowing the patient to shower without worrying about the dressing. - When I use surgical glue like Dermabond or Prineo, if the surgical wound is dry, I only recommend a dressing to protect the wound from clothing. - When I apply a dressing with gauze and micropore tape, I like it to stay on for at least 48 hours before a new one is applied. - For the navel, I often use a no-cut technique, so no dressing is needed, just protection from clothing. But when I make incisions, I follow the same dressing rules. What are the drain care instructions? - It is important to record the daily volume. - If it clogs, or if a connection comes loose, contact us as soon as possible for more specific instructions. Which elastic garment to use? - You can use elastic garments in the form of a one-piece swimsuit, shorts, shorts with a one-piece swimsuit, and even elastic bands with segments. - The important factor in the decision is to consider whether or not there were other associated surgeries such as liposuction or breast surgeries, which may require a specific garment. - The garment should never be tight and mark the skin, but rather snug. - In some cases, you can even choose not to wear a band or garment, but this needs to be thoroughly discussed with the patient. How to lie in bed? - The ideal is a hospital bed, which can even be rented. - The bed needs to have the back elevated to around 45 degrees, and the legs bent. - If you don't have a hospital bed, the way is to place many pillows under your back, or even anti-reflux pillows, and place a pillow bent under your legs. - This position is important to relieve tension in the stitch area. When can I shower? - I usually allow showering on the 2nd day, according to the dressing instructions. - I recommend never showering alone. - Place a plastic chair in the shower to shower sitting down and avoid falling if you feel faint. - If you have a hand-held shower, you can use it to help with cleaning. When can I walk? - I like my patient to walk as soon as possible on the same day of the surgery. This early ambulation is important to prevent complications such as thrombosis, in addition to stimulating bowel function. - For the first 7 to 10 days, this ambulation needs to be with the patient hunched over, to avoid tension on the incision stitches. - You cannot overdo it; you have to walk many times, but short distances, meaning only at home, moving from room to room. - Avoid going out in public during these first few days to avoid the risk of bleeding and infection. When can I drive? - I usually allow it after 1 month, but I can hold it for up to 2 months. - It will depend on the car; it helps if it's automatic and has power steering. - And always start with short distances. When can I sunbathe? - Excessive sun exposure is not good for anyone. - For all postoperative cases, I advise against sun exposure for up to 6 months and always recommend using sunscreen. Did you like it? Want to know more about other surgeries? Follow our social networks.