After undergoing a panniculectomy, it is important to ensure that any incision areas are properly taken care of. To start, you should be sure to only use lukewarm water while showering, as hot water can damage sensitive areas.
Additionally, it is important to avoid scrubbing the incision sites directly with a washcloth, as this can cause further damage.
You should also use a mild unscented soap free of any exfoliating ingredients. Avoiding any fragranced body washes or products with a lot of ingredient in them is key for the healing process. After soaping up, you should use your hands to lather up and then rinse off.
If your doctor has prescribed an antibiotic ointment, you may want to incorporate that into your washing routine.
After showering, be sure to gently pat the skin dry with a clean soft towel. Do not rub the skin, as this can cause irritation and delay the healing process. Additionally, you may want to use a fragrance-free, alcohol-free lotion to keep the area smooth and supple.
This will help to reduce any complications caused by scarring. Once dried, it’s important to check incisions sites and apply Band-Aids where necessary.
It is also important to keep an eye out for any signs of infection or severe pain. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should reach out to your doctor right away; redness and swelling at the incision site, worsening pain, drainage from the area, fever, shaking, chills and other signs of infection.
Following these steps will help to ensure a successful recovery from your panniculectomy surgery.
How long after a Panniculectomy can you shower?
In general, it is recommended to wait until any drains and surgical dressings have been completely removed before taking a shower, which is typically anywhere from 4-7 days after a panniculectomy. You should speak with your surgeon about when specifically it is safe for you to start showering after the procedure.
Once you have the go ahead from your surgeon, you should make sure that the incisions site is kept dry at all times. You may want to avoid getting any soap or water directly on the incision until it is completely healed.
Additionally, your surgeon should provide specific instructions on how to care for your incision site. If you are using a sponge or cloth to shower, you should make sure it is not too abrasive and that it is not rubbing against your incision.
If at any point you experience discomfort or pain during or after showering, you should contact your doctor right away.
Will my stomach be flat after a Panniculectomy?
It is possible to achieve a flat stomach after a Panniculectomy. The panniculectomy is a surgical procedure that removes excess abdominal skin and fat that is typically seen in obese or overweight individuals.
After the procedure is complete, the individual may be able to achieve a flatter abdomen.
The amount of fat and skin that is removed from the abdomen during a Panniculectomy will determine the degree of flattening. Typically, the larger the amount of fat and skin removed, the more likely the abdominal area will be flatter.
However, if an individual does not have a lot of excess fat and skin, then the amount of flattening may not be significant.
Although a flat stomach can be achieved after a Panniculectomy, it also important to remember that optimal results are not always immediate. It is important to follow pre- and post-operative instructions to ensure optimal results as well as maintain a healthy diet and exercise program to maximize long-term results.
How many pounds of skin is removed in a Panniculectomy?
The amount of skin and tissue that is removed during a panniculectomy can vary depending on the individual and their specific needs. Generally, anywhere between 10 and 15 pounds of skin and tissue can be removed in the procedure, although some patients may lose more or less depending on their individual anatomy and desired outcome.
The procedure is usually performed in one or two stages in order to ensure a safe and successful outcome. During the first stage, excess fat and skin are removed from the lower abdomen and pelvic area.
The second stage, if necessary, may involve a more extensive procedure where more skin and tissue is removed and the abdominal muscles are tightened to provide a more aesthetically pleasing outcome.
Can I wear jeans 2 weeks after tummy tuck?
It is not recommended to wear jeans two weeks after a tummy tuck. Even though you may feel like you are recovered enough to start wearing jeans again, it is important to wait until your surgeon gives you the go ahead.
During the two-week period after a tummy tuck, your body will be healing and adjusting to the changes made during the surgery, which can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to move comfortably. During this period of healing, you should wear clothes that do not put too much pressure on the incision site and your stomach area, like loose-fitting tops, soft sweatpants, and leggings.
Follow your surgeon’s instructions for the best results.
How do you sleep after skin removal surgery?
After skin removal surgery, your doctor will provide you with a plan of care that is tailored to the specifics of the procedure performed. In general, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for wound care, taking pain medication as prescribed, and raising your legs when resting.
Taking frequent naps and avoiding strenuous activities are also important for a successful recovery.
In terms of how to best position yourself during sleep, initially it is important to keep your head elevated with two to three pillows and sleep on your back in order to allow gravity to help keep the swelling down.
You may also want to avoid sleeping on the side of your body in which the surgery was performed since this could cause stress on the skin graft or flap. If the incision is longer, you may want to protect the area with a loose bandage over it to prevent it from being disturbed during sleep.
After the first few days and weeks, you can usually begin to transition to your preferred sleeping position. For a more personalized approach, it is recommended to check with your doctor to discuss the best sleeping positions and getting adequate rest after skin removal surgery.
How soon after abdominal surgery can I sleep on my side?
It is important to give your body time to heal after abdominal surgery. Sleeping on your side too soon can put pressure on the muscles and incisions that have been recently operated on, delaying the healing process.
In general, it is generally advised to wait at least two weeks before sleeping on your side after abdominal surgery.
It is important to pay attention to the specific advice of your doctor, as there are many variations depending on the type of procedure and the individual. Your doctor may even request you to sleep elevated on a few pillows for the first few weeks following surgery to reduce swelling in the area and maintain proper healing.
You should always communicate with your doctor on any specific guidelines you should be following and ask questions if anything is unclear. Most importantly, be mindful of any pain you may be feeling and adjust your sleeping position accordingly.
How long until you can sleep on your side after top surgery?
The amount of time it will take before you are able to comfortably sleep on your side after top surgery can vary depending on the type and extent of the procedure. Generally speaking, your surgeon will likely recommend avoiding sleeping on your side and/or chest while lying down for four to six weeks post-operatively.
This will help to facilitate proper healing, decrease the risk of complications or infection, and reduce the chance of post-operative hematomas (or blood accumulations).
Depending on how much tissue and/or breast tissue was removed, your surgeon may advise lying on your back in order to keep pressure off the chest and promote proper healing. During the healing process, you may experience some soreness and/or pressure in the area and your body may respond differently than what is typical.
If you experience any persistent or severe pain that does not subside with rest and over-the-counter medications, be sure to contact your surgeon for further instruction.
If your surgeon does give the okay to sleep on your side after the four to six week mark, be sure to use a modified side-lying position with a pillow wedged between your legs to help keep you in proper alignment while sleeping.
Sleeping on your side in addition to your back will help to provide the best support for your recovery. In time and with proper healing, you should be able to sleep comfortably on both your back and side.