Would a wedge pillow set for upper and lower back work for my bed after surgery?

Question

After a tummy tuck would a wedge pillow set for upper and lower back work for my bed after surgery? I could use a recliner during the day and the wedges at night. If so which would you recommend? I’m having a regular tummy tuck. Also would you recommend a walker and taking Arnica? Do they give you pain pills for pain? Would protein drinks be good after?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  Each surgeon has their own respective protocol to manage patients postoperatively and I would ask your specific questions to them. In my opinion all of those options you listed are advisable.

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. What I recommend is to follow all your board certified plastic surgeon recommendations to get the best desired results.

Respectfully,
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Longlegs1955,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

After a tummy tuck the semi reclined position is the most comfortable as it takes the strain off your abdomen.  At night patients find it most comfortable to have pillows under the knees.  Wedges or regular pillows can be used.  A walker is not necessary and you will be up and walking, although slowly, after surgery.  The recommendation of Arnica for bruising and bromelain for swelling varies by surgeon.  Your surgeon will go over post op instructions with you.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Having a wedge pillow to help support your back so that you can sleep in a semi flexed position will be very helpful after a full tummy tuck.

The procedure is invasive and the recovery is intense for the first few days.

I would anticipate the great majority of plastic surgeons will prescribe fairly substantial narcotic pain medication and this is typically needed at least for the first 2 to 3 days.

Narcotic pain medication tends to make almost everyone constipated. I recommend patients add fiber to their diet with psyllium husk a.k.a. Metamucil supplements while taking prescription pain medication.

For patients who have never used bulk forming laxatives like Metamucil it’s a good idea to try them out before hand so you know how your body responds to them.

Constipation after a tummy tuck is fairly universal because the procedure typically requires several days of continuous narcotic pain control.

Patients should be prepared to have someone by their side for the first couple of days and support without obligation for any physical activity for the first week or two.

Personally I think it’s a good idea to spend the first night at a medical facility with a nurse who can help you get through the first 24 hours.

The recovery should be part of a thorough consultation. If you’ve not chosen a plastic surgeon yet then schedule several in person consultations with local board-certified plastic surgeons. If you’ve already chosen your surgeon and had a consultation then consider scheduling a preop visit if recovery it was not discussed in detail.

Arnica has very little scientific evidence of making a difference and protein shakes are not necessary for most people who have a balanced diet.

Being physically and mentally well prepared, anticipating narcotic related constipation are probably the most important things to take in the consideration.

Selecting a skilled experienced provider goes without saying. Going through this much surgery without the results someone had hoped for is something to be avoided.

Judge plastic surgeons based on who gets the most natural looking belly button with a low set scar that follows natural and atomic outlines.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom MD

Would a wedge pillow set for upper and lower back work for my bed after surgery?

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