Post-Op Surgical Goals/Instructions/Compression

Dear Doc. - I underwent tum. lipo one week ago for body contouring of the upper and lower abs, breasts, love handles and upper outer thighs/buttox.  I am a healthy normal sized 30 yeal old male.  Everything went well and I feel (a little sore but) good

I had my post op surgical visit yesterday.  Teh stitches were removed and the surgeon's nurse said she was pleased with the progress.  I asked if the surgeon was going to see me and she said no.  I was a little miffed as I had selected the "top" guy in town and paid a premium 25% more than the next moste expensive doc but figured it was too early to get upset.  

A few questions:

A) What should I reasonably expect as far as interaction witht the surgeon postop?

B) As a surgeon, what are you hoping to achieve post op?  Are you just looking to minimize brusing/swelling?

C) What is the goal of the compression garmet?  Mine currently consists of a surgical ace bandage about 5" wide by 9' long that goes from my breast area to just below my navel.  I am wearing "under armour" bike shorts to protect my hip areas that were treated.  How tight shoudl I wear the ace?  If I don't wear it , what could happen?

D) Do you recommend that patients limit their range of motion or is it ok for me to move/turn about normally and only stop if it feels too painful?

Sorry this was so long but thanks very much.

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

Let me answer your questions sequentially:
A) If you look at the list of questions I frequently respond to, more than not they are from patients who have just undergone procedures and have concerns about their early progress.  In my busy practice, I try to see every post-op patient and respond personally to phone inqueries (unless I am unavailable - in surgery, out of town, etc).  You have paid a lot of money for your procedure and should expect a satisfactory response directly from the doctor. If you ae seen by the nurse post-op and want to see the doctor directly, speak up.

B) At only one week post-op lipo, I am interested in seeing the early results of surgery and indicate to each patient, if their healing is progressing satisfactorily.  Bruising and swelling at this stage is unpredictable, but I evaulate based on extensive past experience how each person is doing.

C) The compression garment helps reduce swelling and if evenly applied, will keep the skin smooth in the early post-oop period.

D) Extending the range of motion is not critical, unless there is pain or significant swelling after that activity.  However,some rest, is the best for maximumm healing.

[RS-FL]

Thank you for your thoughful and thorough reply.