We ensure we are with you every step of your surgical journey. After undergoing your body lift, you will recover in Dr. Antell’s state-of-the-art recovery suite while being monitored by one of his nurses until you feel well enough to be discharged. A lower body lift is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can return home the same day as the procedure. When performed under IV sedation, you should be prepared to have an escort to bring you home, as you will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. Upon leaving the facility, you will be provided with thorough discharge instructions that will guide you through the initial post-operative period. Throughout your recovery, Dr. Antell and his staff will be available to answer any questions you may have.
We will schedule your first follow-up appointment for the day after surgery so that Dr. Antell can observe the healing process. You can sponge bathe immediately and usually take a shower 48 hours after your procedure. If deemed necessary, you may be prescribed antibiotics to help prevent infection. If so, please be sure that you take the entire course as directed. While you can return to most light, daily activities within a few days, Dr. Antell may recommend taking up to 10-14 days off work. If used, external sutures will be removed 10-14 days after your procedure. Depending on the extent of your procedure, you may be asked to refrain from vigorous exercise for four to six weeks. After the procedure, you will likely be bruised and swollen.
While this will mostly dissipate within the first six to eight weeks after surgery, some residual swelling can remain for six months or more. The incisions made during a lower body lift are strategically placed to be as hidden from view as possible when wearing clothing or a swimsuit. Over time, the incisions will fade and become less noticeable. Your surgeon’s skills are the most critical to achieving the desired outcome. Avoid exposing your scars to direct sunlight for the first six months, as this can change pigmentation. You can be confident that you will achieve a superior result from a lower body lift when under the care of a doctor with the experience of Dr. Antell.
