Many people, especially women, obtain plastic surgery at some point in their life. Liposuction, abdominoplasty (tummy tucks) and breast augmentation have become popular types of plastic surgery for women. Follow the aftercare instructions provided by the doctor because they are imperative for the recovery to be successful. Local massage started approximately one to two weeks after surgery aids in the healing process, which includes reducing scar tissue and bruising and increasing circulation.
Things to Remember
After the first shower, rub a thick lotion or petroleum jelly on the liposuctioned area. This relieves the itching due to the drying of the skin because of the surgical procedure. Stay away from the incision until it heals completely. Never apply the lubricant to the incision. You don't want to irritate or cause any infections to the incision. Before beginning the massage, secure the OK with the surgeon who performed the surgery. Remember, a patient's attentiveness toward her body becomes essential in this part of the healing process.
Local Massage
Some use local massage after tummy tuck and liposuction. Never press directly down onto the abdomen. Use gentle and light rubbing. Rub lightly so bruising does not increase. Begin rubbing in small, circular motions with the tips of your fingers. Take plenty of time. Rushing through the massage may not stimulate the tissue in the area enough. Use a clockwise motion, circling toward the outer region of the abdomen to encourage the blood flow to circulate. Complete these massages about three times a day. Increase the pressure used while rubbing after two weeks. As the area heals, the muscle and tissue threshold to withstand more pressure increases.
Lymphatic Massage
Some choose a professional to perform lymphatic massage on the area as well. This increases the lymph flow which reduces swelling and clears the lymphatic system. It also stimulates the immune system, decreases healing time and increases overall health in tummy tuck patients, according to tuckthattummy.com. You may choose to begin self-lymphatic massage also.
Place fingers on the opposite shoulder in the indent right above the collarbone. Move the fingers up and onto the neck. Gently rub in a clockwise direction toward the chest with two fingers. Make sure you push the lymph toward the node. This type of massage encourages the fluid to flush through the body. Next, using firm fingers, press and pull skin under the armpit up toward the neck. Release the pressure and repeat. Massage the thigh area in its entirety, pushing the lymph in the direction of the inner knee using the flat part of the hand. Make sure that you use very gentle pressure. Too much pressure flattens the nodes. Push and scoop with the flat part of the fingers on the back of the knee. Consult with your physician and licensed massage therapist before beginning any self-care routines and for further information.
Tags: flat part, healing process, Make sure, Massage Some, plastic surgery
