Post-Op Mommy Makeover, Which Food/Beverages to Have Avaiable for 1st Week?

Question

What foods/beverages would be most beneficial for postop healing? Are protein shakes OK? Should I increase my lean protein intake? Thanks!

Leo Lapuerta, MD · Answer

The most important thing to do after any surgery is to make sure you are drinking plenty of fluids, preferably water. It is best to also try to stay away from salty food items in which those can make you swell more. Protein shakes are very good and I would encourage drinking those. You may want to stay away from multi-vitamins because some of them do contain fish oils and vitamin Es which can cause bleeding. It is also very important to take your stool softeners because the medications can cause constipation. I would start off slow and eat/drink to what is tolerable.

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

It’s important that Mommy Makeover patients maintain good
nutrition in the post-operative period. During this time, it’s important that they have adequate calories, protein,
vitamins and trace elements.A well
balanced high protein diet is necessary for several reasons. It’s very clear that poor nutrition can lead
to wound healing problems in the post-operative period. In some cases, it may even cause wound
breakdown and separation. Protein
shakes and other sources of protein are essential for optimal wound
healing. We also recommend that patients
avoid heavy and spicy foods which may lead to indigestion following surgery. Patients should also minimize salt intake
which can lead to prolonged post-operative swelling.Patients should work hard to maintain good
hydration. This helps decrease the
incidence of constipation in patients already on narcotic pain relievers.It’s
important that these issues be discussed with your plastic surgeon if you have
concerns.Your surgeon should be able to
be more specific about your unique situation.

Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS · Answer

Light foods such as broths, jello, and shakes are perfect for you after a mommy makeover.  Protein shakes are especially good for optimal incision healing.

Steven H. Williams, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question -

	You should not plan drastic diet changes. 

	A healthy balanced diet is as important after surgery as it was before.  Things like high doses of Vitamin E or high protein diets can actually cause post-op problems (bleeding for Vitamin E and constipation for high protein diets).

	I hope this helps!

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

After a tummy tuck I would recommend a high protein, low carb diet. Vitamins with extra minerals like zinc and magnesium are good for wound healing. Avoid food that will make you feel bloated and gassy. Also avoid salt as it will make you blow up! Use a mild stool sftener like Colace or Pericolace. Stay well hydrated and move around as much as your doctor will permit.

Michelle Spring, MD, FACS · Answer

I would recommend a preoperative healthy diet that you continue postoperatively. You won't be able to suddenly change your immune system and healing capacity the week after surgery if you were not healthy and fit going into surgery. Fruits, vegetables, lean protein, protein shakes are all good - but remember to do everything in moderation. Suddenly drastically changing your diet the week after surgery can cause digestive problems, bloating, etc, and remember that pain medications can cause constipation. Decreasing salt intake can help with swelling after surgery.

Ashley Thorburn, MD · Answer

After a mommy makeover, it’s essential to have easily digestible and nutritious foods and beverages available for the first week to support your recovery. Here’s a list of items you might consider:1. Hydration: Water, herbal teas, and electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated.2. Proteins: Lean proteins like chicken, fish, or tofu to aid in tissue repair.3. Fruits: Fresh fruits like apples, pears, and bananas for vitamins and fiber.4. Vegetables: Cooked and easy-to-digest vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and spinach.5. Soups: Broth-based soups with vegetables for nourishment and hydration.6. Whole Grains: Brown rice or whole-grain bread for sustained energy.7. Dairy or Dairy Alternatives: Greek yogurt, almond milk, or similar for calcium.8. Snacks: Nuts, seeds, and nut butter for healthy fats and protein.9. Smoothies: Protein shakes or fruit smoothies for easy consumption.10. Frozen Meals: Pre-prepared, easy-to-heat frozen meals for convenience.Consult with your surgeon for recommendations based on your specific procedure and dietary needs.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

It is important to follow your surgeons postoperative care instructions. Protein shakes are good supplement to a healthy diet in this time of recovery. Make sure to stay well hydrated and try to have some food on board before taking medications. High-fiber foods are also important to help prevent constipation. Best wishes.

Brian Windle, MD (retired) · Answer

I think any physician as well as surgeon will tell you that eating a healthy, well-balanced is the best way to go before and after surgery unless a specific diet is recommended by your surgeon for some reason. Getting the right nutrients can boost your immune system and help you heal faster and it doesn’t mean you need a specialized diet like a high protein diet.  The Cleveland Clinic recommends getting enough antioxidants to enhance your immune system. Antioxidants come from vitamins and minerals in the food that you eat. Their job is to remove the harmful free radicals from the bloodstream. Free radicals are the toxic byproducts that are the result of the body turning food into energy. Free radicals can damage DNA and impair the immune system. Most fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants. Many of these foods are identifiable by their bright red, yellow or orange colors. Foods such as tomatoes, spinach, carrots, berries, red grapes, cranberries, apples, peanuts and broccoli are good sources of antioxidants. I hope that helps.Best regards.

Post-Op Mommy Makeover, Which Food/Beverages to Have Avaiable for 1st Week?

Answers (9)

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