Preparing for Body Contouring

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Lake Forest, Glenview and Grayslake, IL

Preparing for surgery

To help your body contouring surgery go safely and support a smooth recovery, follow these instructions before your procedure:

  • Stop smoking cigarettes at least 6 weeks before surgery for your best chance of a healthy recovery.
  • Stop taking blood-thinning medications and supplements at least 1 week before your procedure.
  • Do not eat or drink after midnight on the day of your surgery. This includes food, coffee, gum and mints. You may have clear liquids for up to two hours before your hospital arrival time.
  • If you have been instructed to take medications, take them with a small sip water, apple juice or a carbohydrate drink.

Day of surgery

On the day of surgery, you will meet with the surgical team. You can discuss any last-minute questions or concerns you may have before surgery.

You will be taken to the operating room and receive anesthesia. Your surgical team will be with you throughout the procedure.

Once your surgery is finished:

  • You will spend 1 to 2 hours in the recovery room.
  • Your surgeon will meet with your family to discuss your surgery with them.
  • As you wake from anesthesia, you will be moved to a regular room. Your loved ones may be able to visit you for a short time before you go home. You can view current visitor policies at nm.org/visitors.

Post-surgical instructions

Recovering at home

  • Take all post-surgical medications as prescribed by your physician.
  • You may shower 48 hours after your surgery. Gently pat dry. Do not rub.
  • If your physician says it is OK, use a cold pack wrapped in a thin towel to help reduce pain and swelling.
    • Only leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, then remove it for at least 20 minutes. You may damage your skin if the cold pack is left on too long.
    • Repeat this as often as needed until the swelling starts to improve.
    • Do not fall asleep with the cold pack on.
  • Once the Steri-Strips™ are removed by your surgeon, wash your incisions with soap and water. You may apply a petroleum-based ointment, such as Aquaphor or Vaseline®, to the incision.
  • Do not start scar care, such as silicone sheets, massage or scar creams, until 4 weeks after surgery.

Exercise and activity restrictions

  • Walk once per hour during the daytime to help prevent blood clots.
  • If you are unable to stand up straight, you may stay slightly bent at your waist until it feels comfortable to stand up straight.
  • Avoid vigorous activity and exercise as directed by your care team.
  • For the 1st 2 weeks, do not lift, push or pull more than 10 pounds.
  • Talk to your physician about light exercise that you can do until you are fully healed. On average, you should be able to return to full exercise without restrictions around 6 to 8 weeks after your surgery.
  • Sleep propped up with a slight bend at your waist. Use pillows under your knees and back to help reduce tension on your abdominal incision.
  • Do not swim, soak in a bath, use a hot tub or do other activities that cover your incisions with water until they are completely healed.
  • You may begin driving once you are no longer taking any prescription pain medication and can safely drive your vehicle.

Post-surgical appointments

1 week after surgery

You will meet with an advanced practice provider to check your healing progress. We will help you with any surgical needs, such as changing bandages and cleaning the incision site.

2 weeks after surgery

You will meet with your physician to check how you are healing. You might have stitches and/or drains removed if needed, and your physician will give you care instructions. Your physician will also determine the timeline for your next follow-up appointment.

When to seek help

Call your physician right away if you have any of these symptoms:

  • A temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for 2 readings in a row taken 4 hours apart
  • New redness or swelling, increased pain, bad-smelling drainage or a large amount of bleeding
  • Severe pain or nausea
  • Unable to urinate or have a bowel movement
  • Pain, swelling, redness or warmth in your leg

Call 911 immediately if you have extreme chest pain or trouble breathing.