How long can I go without showering after Lipo?

Question

I had Lipo on inner, outer, and anterior thighs on Friday and I am terrified to take off my compression garment. I took it off Sunday with help. But I tried to shower independently today and it was horrifying. My vision went totally black. Everything's spinning. Ears ringing. Eventually I got the garment back on and get back to bed. Called my PS to make sure this was normal, he said it was. But I just don't know if I can do that again. Is it okay for me to go a while without washing my legs?

Michael Constantin Gartner, DO · Answer

I usually allow patients to start showering the day after surgery, but it's best to follow your surgeon's advice.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I have all my patients shower the next day, there is no reason to have to wait after this procedure.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Payman Danielpour, MD, FACS · Answer

I normally instruct my patients not to remove the garments for 1 week.  This is strictly to avoid swelling and bruising.  In regards to what you experienced, it is a different reason and cause.  If you are feeling this way, there is a possibility that you are dehydrated or even had a vasovagal episode and should likely call your doc.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Most patients are up and about without any serious problems the day after liposuction. Fainting can happen to anyone but after liposuction one would want to make sure that there is no volume issues. There is no requirement to shower after liposuction but most patients prefer it and I allow it immediately.

Ross Stutman, MD · Answer

Every surgeon will have their own protocol. I recommend you follow your plastic surgeons advice. In my practice, I have patients shower 24 hours after the completion of the surgery. The events you describe are likely due to your blood pressure not being well regulated. This is called a vaso-vagal reaction. The reasons this happened is likely a combination of standing too quickly after removing your compression garment, loss of fluid from the procedure, and your body not being used to the post operative medications. Next time before you shower take your compression garment off while you are lying in bed, sit up slowly and sit for a few minutes before standing, then stand and get in the shower. It is always a good idea to have someone assisting you and keep yourself hydrated.Best Regards,Dr. Stutman

Kimberly Finder, MD · Answer

I allow my liposuction patients to shower the next day, but with very specific instructions. When you release the compression garment, there will be immediate changes in blood circulation and it can cause significant lightheadedness or fainting. Make sure you've eaten a simple but not heavy meal and have had plenty of fluids to drink first. Releasing the zippers and hooks while lying down on a bed allows the circulation to begin to flow while while your head is at the same level as your central circulation. Slowly get into a sitting and then a standing position over several minutes checking to make sure you're not feeling faint. Have someone with you while your are showering the first day or until you don't feel you need the attention.

Henry Mentz, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question. Typically, patients are able to shower a day after surgery. It would be helpful to have a friend or relative help during the recovery period.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

I typically have no restrictions on showering after surgical procedures. General cleanliness and hygiene are good ideas.There are, however, plastic surgeons who ask their patients to not shower for many days after surgical procedures. To me, that makes no sense, but I suppose they have their reasons. Feeling weak and dizzy after surgery, especially after extensive surgery and/or when general anesthesia is used, is quite common. This typically gets better day by day. For now, I would encourage you to get assistance if you need to remove or put on your garments or take a shower. It can be very dangerous to slip or fall while taking a bath or shower.Continue to keep in touch with your plastic surgeon if your symptoms persist or do not improve. I don't believe your results will be compromised or that you are at risk for developing complications if you stay out of the shower for a few more days. Best of luck,Mats Hagstrom, M.D.

How long can I go without showering after Lipo?

Answers (8)

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