My doctor doesn’t give lipo foam or an Ab Board with his liposuction. Do I need this? If so, why?

I would ask your plastic surgeon about garments and the duration of wear, because each plastic surgeon will have a different protocol. I typically ask patients to use adjustable garments with multiple bands so that tension can be adjusted and the areas of liposuction are less likely to get a fluid collection.  The key here is the size and the ability to tighten the garment not the brand or make. Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Dear FNP Mom,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

FNP Mom  I appreciate your concern, however each plastic surgeon has a preferred recommendation for recovery after tummy tuck and liposuction. Some surgeons do use topical foam under the elastic garment initially and some do not. I personally never use an abdominal board after surgery, as I do not think it is necessary and can be very uncomfortable right after surgery.  Generally speaking, there are different avenues for recovery and each of them has benefits, but there is not one absolute method that guarantees perfect results. Discuss your concerns with your board-certified plastic surgeon. Good luck.

This is done according to the preference of the surgeon.  I personally do not see any benefit, so I don't use it.  Others may feel strongly the other way.  It is best to find a surgeon that you trust, and follow whatever protocol that they have found works best for them.

 Obviously according to your doctor you do not need them.  Each doctor will have their own protocol for how to do procedures. Once you've chosen the doctor then you should let him or her do the procedure the way they feel they can do it best.  Your doctor does not believe in post op abdominal foam then you shouldn't use it.  Personally I don't either. One thing is for sure and that is using foam or not using foam  will not change the outcome from the procedure.  Best, Mats Hagstrom MD 

Hello and thank you for your excellent question. Surgeons develop their own individualized protocols after practice and experience. I personally do not recommend Lipofoam or an Ab board, particularly after a mini tummy tuck, so I do not think you should be concerned. If you want to use these, I suggest that you discuss this with your surgeon, as he or she may be totally fine with it. Good luck!