Full tummy tuck with lipo in flanks and muscle tightening. Can I try cryotherapy sessions to get swelling down?

Question

Can I try Cryotherapy sessions and what other alternatives are there to get swelling down? Any suggestions would help. My Dr said do not use compression garments or waist trainers, I was making the swelling worse, I am 4 weeks post op from full tummy tuck with lipo and muscle tightening of the abs.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your excellent question.  I would not advise cryotherapy sessions for two main reasons.  Firstly, the skin of your abdomen will be anesthetized from surgery and you will not be able to identify when your skin is getting too cold, potentially causing frostbite or other injury.  Secondly, the cold temperatures will constrict the blood vessels of your stomach skin which will impair blood flow and possibly cause wound-healing difficulties such as incision separation.  Talk to your surgeon about ways that they recommend reducing swelling.  They are your best source of advice.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I would not recommend to use cryotherapy after TT. continue to use garment and massage will help. Please talk to your PS for specific instructions

Karol A. Gutowski, MD, FACS · Answer

I would not recommend cryotherapy as it can damage the skin after surgery. Time and massage may help - discuss with your surgeon.

Full tummy tuck with lipo in flanks and muscle tightening. Can I try cryotherapy sessions to get swelling down?

Answers (3)