I just had Liposuction and a full Tummy Tuck done a week ago. I'm very pleased with what I've seen so far. However, I have extensive bruising from my hips to my knees, both sides of my stomach area, and the pubic area. How long before these bruises heal, and how can I speed up the healing process?
After tummy tucks and liposuciton it is very common to have bruising and swelling. The bruising usually goes away in a few weeks along with the majority of the swelling. Most of the products available for swelling and bruising don't work too well. I would just relax and let time take its toll and allow you to heal the "natural way"
First of all, you have a great result! Your bruising and swelling look normal for one week after surgery. You will be surprised, but the swelling and bruising will resolve over the next week or so. I usually have my patients go for medical massage starting 10 days after surgery to help with the swelling and lymphatic flow. However, you should discuss this with your surgeon before starting any therapies. Also, avoiding alcohol, salt and spicy foods helps keep the swelling down. Finally, Arnica Montana tablets or cream may help with the bruising. This is available in most health food stores.
I hope this is helpful.
Dr. David Shafer
New York City
Your plastic surgeon did a great job - Smooth contour and great shape to the belly button. I like a vertical oriented belly button like you have. I do not like the inverted smile belly button shape that some doctors provide. If you look at any swimsuit model, their belly button looks like yours.
As for swelling, I tell my patients the following:
As with any advice on this site, seek your own doctor's advice, because it is obvious that he or she knows what they are doing!
Good luck!
Robert Freund, MD, FACS
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