Healing Bruises After Tummy Tuck and Liposuction

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

Dear vv3037,

Congratulations on completing your tummy tuck and liposuction procedures! It's not uncommon to experience bruising in the treated areas following surgery, but rest assured that it's usually temporary and will resolve with time.

Bruising typically occurs as a result of trauma to the blood vessels during surgery and can vary in severity depending on individual factors such as skin type, surgical technique, and extent of the procedure. While the bruising may appear extensive, it's a natural part of the healing process and should gradually fade over time.

Here are some tips to help speed up the healing process and minimize the appearance of bruising:

Arnica Montana: Consider taking Arnica Montana supplements or using topical Arnica gel, which is believed to help reduce bruising and inflammation. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage and consult with your surgeon before starting any new supplements.

Cold Compresses: Applying cold compresses to the bruised areas can help constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling and discoloration. Use a clean cloth or ice pack wrapped in a towel and apply it to the bruised areas for 10-15 minutes several times a day.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from your body and promote overall healing.

Avoid Blood Thinners: Avoid taking medications or supplements that may thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding and bruising. This includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen, as well as certain herbal supplements.

Gentle Massage: Once cleared by your surgeon, gentle massage of the bruised areas can help improve circulation and promote the breakdown of bruised tissue. Be sure to follow your surgeon's instructions and avoid applying excessive pressure to the surgical sites.

It's important to remember that bruising is a normal part of the recovery process and may take several weeks to fully resolve. Be patient with your body as it heals, and continue to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions for optimal recovery.

If you have any concerns about your bruising or the healing process, don't hesitate to reach out to your plastic surgeon for guidance and reassurance.

Wishing you a smooth and speedy recovery!

Sincerely,

Dr. Katzen
Plastic Surgeon

Healing after a tummy tuck and liposuction typically involves several stages. Here are some general tips to help with bruise healing:1. Follow Post-Op Instructions: Your surgeon will provide specific post-operative instructions. Follow these carefully to ensure proper healing.2. Rest and Elevate: Rest is crucial for healing. Elevating your legs when sitting or lying down can help reduce swelling and improve circulation.3. Compression Garments: Wearing compression garments as advised by your surgeon can help minimize swelling and bruising.4. Arnica and Bromelain: Some people find that over-the-counter supplements like Arnica and Bromelain can help reduce bruising and swelling. Consult your surgeon before using any supplements.5. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the bruised areas for short periods (15-20 minutes at a time) during the first few days can help reduce inflammation and minimize bruising.6. Gentle Massage: Some gentle, lymphatic massage techniques may be recommended by your surgeon to help with fluid drainage and healing. Be sure to consult your surgeon before trying this.7. Proper Nutrition: Eating a well-balanced diet with plenty of vitamins and minerals can support the healing process.8. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is important for overall healing.9. Avoid Blood Thinners: Avoid medications or substances that can thin your blood, as they can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising. Be sure to consult your surgeon about any medications you are taking.10. Patience: Bruising and swelling are a normal part of the healing process and will gradually improve over time. It can take several weeks to months for the bruising to completely fade.Always consult with your surgeon for recommendations on managing bruising and promoting proper healing after tummy tuck and liposuction.