Can a Gentle Vibrating Recliner Be Used After TT Surgery? What About Foot Massager to Prevent Clots?

Question

I saw a recliner chair that has a gentle vibration on the back and seat. Will this help or hurt my recovery? Also, blood clots are of worry to me so I wasnwondering if those foot/calf massagers would help prevent DVT.

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

Foot and calf massagers are used regularly in the hospital to prevent blood clots. If you have the money to have one of those machines in your home, they can help.  They are not a substitute for walking however.  The best way to prevent blood clots after surgery is to get up and get walking!  I insist all my tummy tuck patients walk multiple times the night of surgery.  The massage chair is of no therapeutic value but also should not hurt anything.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I would ambulate after surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots, and I would not recommend the vibrating chair.  It is always best to get your surgeon's opinion.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

The vibrating chair is not a great idea.  It could vibrate you into post op bleeding.  Also don't count on the foot squeezers to be a substitute for what you realy need to do to avoid clots.  That is, getting up and walking frequently enough to prevent the clots.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and pictures.

	The chair/device that you have photographed may help you in terms of comfort and will certainly not “hurt” your recovery. I'm sure your plastic surgeon will recommend frequent ambulation as an important  part of your recovery.

	 In terms of more specific methods to help prevent DVT,  I think you would be wise to review your specific medical history,  any medications that you are currently using and  the variety of “prophylactic”  modalities/medications available with your plastic surgeon.

	 Best wishes.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

If you are really interested in preventing DVT after tummy tuck frequent walking is actually the most important to exercise the muscular pump in your calves and improve venous circulation. Get up and resist sitting in any one position, with or without massagers and you will have the lowest risk.

Can a Gentle Vibrating Recliner Be Used After TT Surgery? What About Foot Massager to Prevent Clots?

Answers (9)

Answer: Prevention of Clots after Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Answer: Prevention of Clots after Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Answer: Foot massager after tummy tuck to prevent DVT

Answer: Foot massager after tummy tuck to prevent DVT

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Can a Gentle Vibrating Recliner Be Used After TT Surgery? What About Foot Massager to Prevent Clots?

Answers (9)

Answer: Prevention of Clots after Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Answer: Prevention of Clots after Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Answer: Foot massager after tummy tuck to prevent DVT

Answer: Foot massager after tummy tuck to prevent DVT

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.