Is a infrared sauna for lymphatic drainage okay to do after abdomen lipo?

Lack of cleanliness, and hot temperatures of the sauna can expose you to burns if you lack sensitivity and to infection if your incisions have not healed.  I generally ask patients to avoid public bathing options for at least six weeks. Ask the plastic surgeon who performed your lipo for advice as he or she will know how your scar tissue is healing. 

This should be fine, but I recommend following up with your practitioner about a recommended aftercare protocol. I recommend adding hyperbaric oxygen and lymphatic massage along with your compression to help decrease swelling. To improve your final results, I also recommend adding vanquish for further fat removal, exilis/venus legacy for skin tightening, cellutone/z wave to make the skin smooth, remove scar tissue, and improve the skin’s appearance. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Dear Dwright1960,every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Dwright1960.  I recommend that you stay away from any type of sauna or hot tub or Jacuzzi for at least two weeks after your surgery over concerns regarding infection. I have never been a fan of lymphatic massage after liposuction because there is no bonafide scientific research that provides proof that it works.  It also hurts a lot right after surgery, and unnecessary pain is not my idea of a good time! Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon for further details. Good luck.

Thanks for the question, after two weeks I allow my patients to use saunas, before that you may expose yourself to an increased risk of infection. There is some new data that suggests that infrared when combined with lymphatic drainage can enhance the healing process and thus I think its a great idea when used safely

Please direct this question to your plastic surgeon. Each surgeon has their own postoperative protocol to help predictable healing occur. It would not be appropriate to speculate what your surgeon would be comfortable with - just ask them. Congratulations on your procedure.

We do not recommend going in a sauna or hot tub for at least 2 months after any surgical procedure due to the risk of infection.  I have my patients start lymphatic massage 3-4 weeks after liposuction to improve drainage and decrease the swelling.  Speak with your surgeon regarding their postoperative protocol and good luck.