Post Op Instructions After Getting a BBL

Recovery isn’t just about healing; it’s about nurturing your body as it adapts to its new contours. From learning how to sit and sleep comfortably to maintaining a healthy diet and managing movement, every detail matters.

This guide is here to help you navigate the post-op phase with ease, offering practical advice and actionable tips to ensure your recovery is as smooth and rewarding as possible. Let’s get you started on the path to healing and celebrating the beautiful results ahead!

What to Anticipate After Surgery

A properly guided recovery can mean the difference between a smooth, satisfying transformation and unnecessary setbacks that prolong discomfort and hinder your recovery. When patients try to rush this delicate period or disregard their surgeon’s instructions, they open the door to complications that could otherwise be easily avoided.

Embrace the healing process as a step toward achieving the outcome you’ve long awaited for, and remember that a steady, well-paced recovery without expectations can lead to a lasting transformation.

1. First 24 Hours Post-Procedure

A comfortable recovery area should be set up before surgery. The bed or recliner should allow patients to lie on their stomach or side. Pillows and cushions can provide support and help maintain proper positioning.

Essentials like medications, water, and light snacks should be within easy reach. A nearby bathroom is ideal to minimize movement. The recovery space temperature should be comfortable, as patients may experience temperature sensitivity post-anesthesia.

Immediately after surgery:

1. A responsible adult (18+) must accompany you home and stay with you until the following day for safety.
2. Consume 6-8 glasses (8oz each) of water to stay hydrated.
3. Avoid aspirin or aspirin-containing products for four weeks post-op. Use only prescribed pain medications or Tylenol.
4. Do not remain bedridden—get up and move around at least five times daily.
5. Attend your initial follow-up appointment the day after surgery. Additional check-ups typically occur around 15 and 30 days post-op.

Do not be to quick to judge your appearance as bruising and swelling in the operated area is typical and will gradually improve over a few weeks. Your full transformation will not be fully visible for some weeks, so please be patient with yourself!

Initial Care Instructions – The First Weeks of Recovery

1. Patients must wear compression garments as directed by their surgeon. These garments help reduce swelling and support the newly contoured areas. Mild to moderate discomfort is normal and can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
2. Swelling and bruising are common in the treated areas. Cold compresses may be applied to liposuction sites, but not directly on the buttocks. Some drainage from incision sites is expected and should be monitored.
3. Patients should avoid sitting or lying directly on their buttocks for at least two weeks. When resting, lying on the stomach or side is recommended. Limited movement is advised to promote proper healing and fat graft survival.

1. Pain Management

Pain and discomfort are common in the first weeks following a BBL procedure. Patients typically receive prescription pain medication to manage post-operative pain. It’s important to take these medications as directed by the surgeon.

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs may be recommended to help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. Applying cold compresses to the treated areas can also help minimize swelling and provide relief.

As healing progresses, pain levels generally decrease. Most patients transition to over-the-counter pain relievers within a week or two after surgery.

2. Compression Garments Usage

Wearing compression garments is essential during the initial recovery phase. These garments help reduce swelling, support the newly contoured areas, and promote proper healing.

Patients are typically instructed to wear compression garments 24 hours a day for the first few weeks, except when showering. The garments should fit snugly but not be overly tight.

Proper usage of compression garments aids in:

• Minimizing fluid retention
• Improving blood circulation
• Supporting the new body contours
• Reducing the risk of complications

3. Mobility and Activity Restrictions

Activity restrictions are crucial in the first weeks after a BBL. Patients must avoid sitting directly on their buttocks for at least two weeks to protect the newly transferred fat cells.

When sitting is necessary, a special BBL pillow or donut cushion should be used to redistribute pressure. Lying on the stomach or side is recommended for rest and sleep.

Light walking is encouraged to promote blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. However, strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise should be avoided for several weeks.

Patients should follow their surgeon’s specific instructions regarding return to work and normal activities. Gradual resumption of activities is typically allowed after 4-6 weeks, depending on individual recovery progress.

Monitoring for Immediate Post-Op Complications

Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or discharge from incision sites. Fever over 101°F (38.3°C) should be reported to the surgeon.

Excessive bleeding or drainage is not normal. If dressings become saturated with blood, contact the medical team promptly.

Shortness of breath, chest pain, or unusual swelling in the legs may indicate a blood clot. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.

Monitor for signs of fat embolism, including difficulty breathing, confusion, or rapid heart rate. This rare but serious complication needs urgent care.

Dietary and Hydration Tips

A high-protein diet is essential for tissue repair and healing after BBL surgery. Patients should focus on lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables to provide necessary nutrients.

Avoid carbonated drinks, spicy foods, and sugar-free products that may cause bloating. Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Start with a liquid diet on the first day post-surgery. Transition to soft foods for the next two days before resuming a regular diet.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This aids in flushing out toxins and supporting overall recovery.

Consider vitamin and mineral supplements, particularly those that promote wound healing and tissue regeneration.

You can also:

1. Sip small amounts of clear fluids such as water or apple juice.
2. If you feel nauseous, rest your stomach, then try crackers or toast before resuming liquids.
3. Refrain from herbal supplements, over-the-counter vitamins, and medications for two weeks, except for a single multivitamin daily.

Physical Activity Guidelines

1. Take a minimum of seven days off work.
2. Refrain from strenuous activities for the first week and avoid bending at the waist or performing household chores like laundry, mopping, or vacuuming.
3. For six weeks post-op, do not lift more than 10 pounds.
4. Abstain from sexual activity for four weeks.
5. Avoid driving for 5-7 days or until cleared by your surgeon, especially if taking oxycodone.
6. Stay in Miami for at least five days post-op before traveling.
7. Avoid sitting on your buttocks for two weeks.
8. After two weeks, use a BBL pillow for sitting and continue its use for a month.
9. At six weeks, sitting without the pillow is permitted for up to one hour at a time.

Long-Term Care and Maintenance

Full results typically become visible 3-6 months post-surgery. The transferred fat stabilizes, and final contours emerge.

Maintaining a stable weight is crucial for long-lasting results. Significant weight fluctuations can affect the shape and volume of the enhanced areas.

Regular exercise, especially targeted glute workouts, can help maintain and even enhance BBL results over time.

Patients should attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any concerns promptly.

Expected Milestones

Day 1-3: Bed rest is crucial. Patients should walk short distances to promote circulation.

Week 1: Follow-up appointment to check healing progress. Light walking is encouraged.

Week 2: Most patients can return to desk jobs using a BBL pillow.

Week 4: Gentle exercise may be permitted. Compression garments are still necessary.

Week 6: Many patients can resume most normal activities. Sitting directly on the buttocks is often allowed for short periods.

Follow-Up Visits

Follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring healing progress and addressing any concerns. Patients should attend all scheduled visits with their surgeon. These check-ups typically occur at regular intervals during the first year post-surgery.

Most plastic surgeons schedule the first follow-up visit within 24-48 hours after surgery. This initial checkup ensures proper healing and allows for early detection of potential complications.

Subsequent appointments typically occur at:

• 1 week post-op
• 3-4 weeks post-op
• 3 months post-op
• 6 months post-op

During these visits, the surgeon evaluates incision sites, checks for signs of infection, and assesses overall recovery progress. Patients should come prepared with questions or concerns about their healing process

Life After Your BBL Surgery

Maintaining BBL results requires ongoing commitment. Patients should focus on a healthy lifestyle to preserve their new contours. This includes:

• Diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support healing and maintain weight stability.
• Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, focusing on exercises that don’t place excessive pressure on the buttocks.
• Weight management: Avoid significant weight fluctuations, as these can affect fat distribution.

Resuming Physical Activities

Light walking is encouraged immediately after surgery to promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Patients should avoid strenuous activities and exercise for at least 4 weeks post-operation. Gradually increase activity levels under the guidance of your surgeon.

After 7-10 days, most patients can return to work, especially if their job is not physically demanding. Use a BBL pillow when sitting for extended periods.

At 4-6 weeks, low-impact exercises may be introduced. High-impact activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for 8-12 weeks or until cleared by the surgeon.

Guidelines for Sitting and Sleeping

Avoid direct pressure on the buttocks for 2-3 weeks after surgery. When sitting is necessary, use a specially designed BBL pillow to redistribute weight to the thighs.

For sleeping, lie on your stomach or side for the first 2-3 weeks. Use pillows for support and comfort. Gradually transition to back-sleeping as advised by your surgeon.

Avoid prolonged sitting sessions. Stand up and move around every 30 minutes to promote blood flow and reduce pressure on the surgical area.

Managing Complications

Bruising and discoloration are common after BBL. Apply cold compresses as directed by your surgeon to reduce swelling. Asymmetry may occur initially but often resolves as swelling subsides. Follow post-operative instructions carefully to minimize this risk.

Pain management is crucial. Take prescribed medications as directed. Avoid sitting directly on the buttocks for several weeks to prevent fat necrosis. Use a special pillow or lie on your stomach when resting.

Scarring at incision sites is normal. Keep incisions clean and dry. Apply recommended ointments to promote healing. Avoid sun exposure on treated areas for at least 6 months to prevent hyperpigmentation.

When to Contact Your Surgeon

Contact your board-certified plastic surgeon immediately if you experience:

• Severe pain not controlled by medication
• Excessive bleeding or drainage
• Signs of infection (fever, redness, warmth)
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Significant asymmetry or changes in buttock shape

Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor healing. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends choosing a qualified surgeon to minimize risks and ensure proper care throughout the recovery process.

Additional Guidelines

Compression Garment Instructions

• Wear your compression garment 24/7 for six weeks, removing it only briefly for showers.
• Use foam inserts with the garment during this period.
• Purchase a second garment to ensure you always have a clean one while laundering the other.
• After six weeks, reduce wear to 12 hours per day for four more weeks.
• Expect fluid drainage, which may stain your garment, during the first three days.

Showering Instructions

• Showering is permitted, but avoid baths for the first month.
• Do not submerge yourself in water, including pools, oceans, or hot tubs, for 30 days.
• Clean incision areas gently with soap and water in circular motions; pat dry without rubbing or scrubbing.
• Avoid applying heat to the wounds or abdomen.

Lifestyle Instructions

• Leave surgical tape or steri-strips on incisions until they fall off naturally.
• All stitches are dissolvable and require no removal.
• Avoid alcohol for two weeks and while on pain medication.
• Do not smoke for six weeks post-surgery—or ideally, not at all.
• Postpone dental procedures for one month to prevent infections.
• Protect your wounds from direct sunlight for at least eight weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the essential aftercare steps following a BBL surgery?

Wear compression garments as directed by the surgeon, typically 24 hours a day for 6 weeks post-surgery. Avoid sitting directly on the buttocks for at least 2 weeks. Sleep on your stomach or side.

Apply ice packs to reduce swelling in the first 24 hours. Take prescribed pain medication as needed. Stay hydrated by drinking at least 64 ounces of water daily.

What specific rest period is advised after undergoing a BBL?

Patients should plan for 2-3 weeks of rest and limited activity following surgery. Normal daily activities can usually resume after a few days, but avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and intense cardio for 2 weeks.

Return to work depends on the nature of one’s job, but most patients can go back after 1-2 weeks. Full recovery typically takes 6-8 weeks.

How can one ensure optimal healing following a BBL procedure?

Follow all post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon. Take deep breaths hourly in the first 72 hours to prevent lung complications. Walk every hour to promote circulation and prevent blood clots.

Maintain a healthy diet rich in protein and nutrients. Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption during recovery. Attend all follow-up appointments with the surgeon.

Which types of post-operative care massages are recommended after a BBL?

Lymphatic drainage massages may be recommended starting 1-2 weeks post-surgery. These help reduce swelling and promote healing. Only trained professionals should perform these massages.

The surgeon may demonstrate self-massage techniques to gently address areas of hardness. Patients should not attempt any massages without explicit approval from their surgeon.

What are the key items to include in a care kit after a BBL?

Compression garments as prescribed by the surgeon. A BBL pillow or cushion for sitting. Loose, comfortable clothing that’s easy to put on and take off.

Pain medication and antibiotics as prescribed. Gauze and surgical tape for incision care. Ice packs for reducing swelling in the first 24 hours.

Are there particular actions to avoid during the recovery period post-BBL?

Avoid sitting or lying directly on the buttocks for at least 2 weeks. Do not engage in strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks. Refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol during recovery.

Avoid submerging in water (baths, pools, hot tubs) until incisions are fully healed. Do not apply heat to the treated areas. Avoid tight clothing that may compress the buttocks.