What is the recovery time for Lower Body Lift. And when is it safe to fly?

Question

I had a tt 1.5 yrs ago & pleased with it. However, my dr & I agree that I may benefit more from an lbl. I may have this procedure done on Monday but I'm still deciding. He won't recut my tummy but add onto the existing TT scar only leaving an incision on my back. I will need to travel via plane for 11 hours exactly a week later, alone. Is this dangerous, worried about blood clots? Will I feel up to it? I've discussed these things with him, he's not worried. I guess I'm looking for reassurance.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding the recovery time for a lower body lift and when it is safe to fly. Regarding a lower body lift, I would stay close to your plastic surgeon for 10-14 days. This allows for the incisions to heal. The swelling decreases, and your window of having a blood clot decreases. Experienced board-certified plastic surgeons specializing in plastic surgery after massive weight loss typically give their patients blood thinners before and after the body lift procedure. Most plastic surgeons will give blood thinners at least two weeks after your lower body lift. In addition, sequential compression garments are applied to the calves during and after the surgery for at least two weeks. Leaving your plastic surgeon seven days after your lower body lift is dangerous. Not only is there an increased chance of blood clots, but there is also a chance for wound breakdown in the posterior portion of the lower body. There is increased tension on the incision in a sitting position. When you had a tummy tuck, there was tension on the back because you were sitting. With the posterior portion of a lower body lift, there is extreme tension in a sitting position. This tension is relieved by being in a laying position. It is almost impossible to be wholly reclined or flat during our flight. Therefore your risk of complications has significantly increased on your flight. I would not fly so soon after your body lift. I would suggest your wait at least two weeks after your body lift. During your flight, I would also wear compression boots. I hope this helps answer your question about when flying after a lower body lift is okay.

C. Bob Basu, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

I have my patients ambulating immediately after surgery.  However, immediately after surgery, you will be walking flexed at your waist (in the skier's position).  Each day, you will be gradually able to straighten.  It generally takes 5-10 days (on average 7 days) for my patients to walk straight.  I do instruct my patients to sleep in a recliner or sleep in their bed propped up with pillows to mimic a the recliner or lawnchair position.  By 10-14 days after surgery, you should be getting close to your baseline ( able to drive, walk straight etc).  Most patients are able to get back to a desk job in about 2-3 weeks.  However, no heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 6 weeks after your surgery.  You need to give time for all your incisions to heal.  During this 6 week period, most surgeons will recommend some form of compression garments to help minimize your postop swelling.    Talk to your plastic surgeon to learn more about his/her specific postoperative care protocol.  Hope this helps.

Daniel Kaufman, MD, FACS · Answer

Congratulations on your recent success with body contouring surgery. You are lucky to have a good experience without complications. If you've consulted with a Board-certified plastic surgeon and have done your research than completing the previously made tummy tuck incision towards the back to complete the total or lower body lift is perfectly reasonable in capable hands. Your immediate postop activities worry me, though. Flying should definitely not be a planned part of the postop recovery period. You must be under close observation and follow up with your surgeon for the first four weeks and even longer as well. I recommend no flying, especially for long flights (six hours or longer) for the first three months after surgery. The restriction eases with good compliance and progress. Hope this isn't too late and that things go well. Good luck and fare well.

What is the recovery time for Lower Body Lift. And when is it safe to fly?

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What is the recovery time for Lower Body Lift. And when is it safe to fly?

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Everything you need to know about Body Lift

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