What should I expect during my body lift recovery?

During your body lift surgery recovery, dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions after the procedure is complete. Small, thin tubes may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood that may collect.

You will be given specific instructions that may include:

• How to care for your surgical site(s) following surgery
• Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing
• Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health
• How to care for your drains
• When to follow up with your plastic surgeon

Be sure to ask your body lift surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period:

• Where will I be taken after my surgery is complete?
• What medication will I be given or prescribed after surgery?
• Will I have dressings/bandages after surgery? When will they be removed?
• When can I bathe after surgery and how may I bathe?
• Are stitches removed? When?
• When will the drains be removed?
• When can I resume normal activity, driving and exercise?
• When do I return for follow-up care?

Body lift surgery recovery at home

If you experience shortness of breath, chest pains or unusual heartbeats, seek medical attention immediately. Should any of these complications occur, you may require hospitalization and additional treatment.