Recovery Time for a Full Body Lift
A body lift, also known as body contouring, combines a variety of plastic surgery techniques in order to reshape, tighten and tone the body, most often after dramatic weight loss. While body lifts become more common every day, it is a quite invasive procedure, and recovery time should be taken into consideration before making a final decision about surgery.
Hospital Stay
Each body lift procedure varies with regards to the individual needs of the patient, so recovery time can also vary greatly. The surgery itself can range from three to seven hours and generally requires a hospital stay of one to four days.
The Drainage Factor
Upon completion of body lift surgery, a doctor will place drains in various places to help remove fluid that tends to build under the skin. Often drains can be removed as soon as one week after surgery; however, they may be required for up to two weeks.
Managing Pain
While in the hospital, discomfort and pain will be managed through intramuscular and intravenous pain medication; however, upon return home, your doctor will prescribe oral pain medication. A few weeks after surgery, pain should be easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Dressings
Initial surgical dressings will be removed a few days after surgery, at which time the patient will be allowed to shower. Many surgeons will require the wearing of a medical compression garment to help manage buildup of fluids and reduce stress on incisions. The garment should be worn at all times, with the exception of bathing. The length of time the garment will be worn will be determined by your surgeon.
The Road to Recovery
Activities after surgery will be greatly restricted for the first few weeks, and strenuous activities will be limited for several weeks. Walking is the only exercise recommended for at least the first month following body lift surgery. The majority of patients return to work and regular activities four to six weeks after surgery; however, some swelling and discomfort may be present for up to three months.
