1 week post BBL. I am so swollen and uncomfortable! Any advice?

Question

Hello, I got a BBL on the 26th, 1400cc was moved from my abdomen, sides and back to my butt. I am VERY swollen and I cannot find comfort any position I lay in, walking or sitting. I've been taking IB800mg along with my perscribed medications, using ice packs for 20mins alternating from my front to back. Each day is worse. Please any tips / advise to help with swelling, and sleeping positions that will maybe give me relief. Much appreciated!!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Follow your PS's post-operative guidelines and be patient.  Things will improve.  Most of the swelling subsides at 6 weeks in most patients, but this may require 6 months or more.  Continue to wear your compression garment; limit your salt consumption, and drink no alcohol.  I recommend that my patient consume 100 grams of protein (protein shakes work well) per day for the first 6 weeks after surgery to promote healing.  
Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Los Angeles, CA

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

Brazilian Butt Lift recovery time is dependent on how the patient’s body reacts to the procedure. Patients usually return to work after a week but you should not sit without the use of cushions for at least two weeks and you must wear a compression garment for several weeks after the procedure. You should wait until at least 2 weeks after the procedure to engage in sexual activity. Swelling and discomfort normally fades at six weeks. After about a month you will be mostly healed and you can get a nice idea of the permanent results after around six months.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Please speak to your plastic surgeon for specific post op instructions. If you feel that you are feeling worse, please see your plastic surgeon for an in-person assessment.

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

Hello, and sorry to hear about your discomfort at this time.  Swelling and pain can be at it's highest in the first few weeks after surgery.  It is advisable that you follow up with your plastic surgeon to see what he/she recommends.  Lymphatic massage, a prescription NSAID (celebrex) or a stronger pain medication may be suggested by your plastic surgeon.  In the mean time make sure you are getting adequate rest, water and using your ice packs as needed.  Good luck!

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

Hello Beach_blondee,
I’m sorry for the adverse symptoms you are experimenting. Every patient is unique and will have different recovery deadlines. The swelling and bruising during the 3-7 days is significant, and most patients will have difficulties sitting moving around, in general. However, your surgeon will give you pain medication to handle any pain that might be involved and help you feel much more comfortable. After the first 3-7 days, you will notice that the swelling, soreness, and pain will begin to fade away. You will see significant improvement in the way your body feels and looks in the following 2 weeks. Be patient during these 2 weeks and you will then begin to see the final results of your Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure. Some light walking might be advised starting the first night after surgery to prevent blood clots in your legs. However, consult with your aesthetic plastic surgeon about it as each case is different. I would recommend wearing specialized compression garments for 6 months and getting a minimum of ten lymphatic drainage massage sessions in order to completely alleviate the swelling and discomfort and also prevent complications such as seromas (fluid collection) and contour irregularities (indentations, and/or fibrosis). Putting pressure on your butt by sitting down or laying on it, especially for long periods of time, can stiffen, deform and even cause the transplanted fat cells to reabsorb. In the case you can’t absolutely elude sitting, I would recommend you doing it in a modified position, placing a bolster or rolled-up towel under the back of the thighs while sitting down, as to avoid significant pressure. Also, there is a variety of post BBL surgery support cushions available on the market. Getting plenty of rest will also help you remain comfortable and shorten your recovery. I suggest my patients stomach sleeping for least the first 8 weeks after BBL surgery, having different pillows at hand and changing their neck’s position from time to time, to feel more comfortable in bed. Side sleeping (in the rescue position on your side) can also be an option after BBL surgery, but only if you feel certain you won’t end up on your back. Most of your weight will be on the front of one of your hips. Your legs will be sprawled out, and you can place a pillow in between them to make it more comfortable. Hope this is helpful! Dr. De La Cruz.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well. 
You are still early on the healing process, it can take up to 6 months to see fully recover. At the stage you are in, swelling is very normal, so i recommend to wear your compression garment and to be patient.
If you have any concerns, i suggest you to follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

1 week post BBL. I am so swollen and uncomfortable! Any advice?

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