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

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.

   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

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.

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.

Thank you for your question. The vibrating recliner is probably safe and comfortable after a tummy tuck.  Foot massagers have not been tested for blood clot prevention.  I would advise discussing other VTE prevention strategies with your surgeon.  Good luck.