G. Hunt Neurohr, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery

Post-Operative Instructions

Abdominoplasty

  1. After your procedure, the nurses in the operating room will put on a compression binder, which you need to wear for 10 days. It may be removed for washing and showering.
  1. When in bed, you need to stay in a semi-reclining position for several days in order to keep tension off the incision. Sitting in a chair or recliner is encouraged.
  1. You will probably have 1-2 drains from your incision. They are the size and shape of a large egg, and you will be able to see pink fluids inside. The private nurse will measure and keep track of the drainage the first night, and she will instruct you on what to do with the drains when you get home. The drains are generally removed 5-7 days after surgery.
  1. Expect some swelling, bruising, and generalized discomfort. Take your pain medications as directed. You may advance to a soft and then general diet as your system tolerates. Drink plenty of fluids.
  1. No lifting or strenuous exercise for 3 weeks. Walking is acceptable after 5 days. You may not be able to stand completely straight for a week due to tightness of the abdominal skin.
  1. You will be seen in the office 5 days after surgery to have some stitches and the drains removed. Dr. Neurohr will see you in another 5 days to have all stiches removed and periodically after that to monitor your progress.
  1. You may take a shower the 2nd post-op day, but be careful not to disturb the drains. Water will not hurt the stiches after the first day. Most patients use a robe tie to pin their drains while showering.
  1. We recommend you buy a laxative (Dulcolax, Miralax, Pericolace or Metamucil) to start the 1st post-op day. Pain medication and surgery can cause constipation. We do not want you straining to have a bowel movement.
  1. Do not take any medications on an empty stomach. Nausea and/or vomiting could occur. Eat several crackers, toast, applesauce, etc. prior to taking your medications.
  1. If you decided to have a pain pump, you will have 1-2 small tubes inserted into the abdomen to deliver the pain medication to the surgical incision. The reservoir will be placed in a small pouch that you will carry around with you. The medication will infuse at a preset rate, so you will not have to refill the pump. The medication will last for 3 days. The pain pump will be removed on your 1st post-op visit.

OFFICE PHONE NUMBER: (214) 987-0585

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6120 Sherry Lane, Dallas, Texas 75225

Telephone: (214) 987-0585 Fax: (214) 987-0589