Question:
Scheduled for my hernia repair and lower body lift next week. VERY NERVOUS! Was

wondering if a diet high in protein post-op will help in the healing process? Any suggestions you can offer to aid the anticipated swelling, possible infections and minimizing the scaring would be greatly appreciated. Thanks    — Judi D. (posted on November 10, 2002)

November 10, 2002
Hi Judy. I think the scarring post-op has a lot to do with both your own healing ability, as well as your surgeons skill. I had the beltectomy incision that goes hip to hip & around the backside at your waist. I've 5 months out and my scars are fading really nicely. Daily I showered with antibacterial soap, patted dry, then applied neosporin and gauze over the incision sites (don't forget your knew belly button!) That really worked well for me for both the scars and keeping the incision site free of infection. As far as swelling, you'll have some no matter what. My doctor ordered a diet high in fruits & vegies along with NO red meat. I also felt that protein was important and tried to get as much as possible through fish & poultry I also kept to a low salt diet. They put me on a medication to control the swelling immediately post op. Later I also took a diuretic for swelling in my legs. I wasn't prepared for the edema & also for not being as active. Don't forget that with the major cutting they do with your surgery that not only do you need to watch the incision for infection but cellulitis is a major possibility that you need to watch for. I did have one spot of that on my side several inches above my incision line. It took some heavy duty antibiotics to clear it up. Hope this helps!
   — Shelly S.

November 10, 2002
Judi, over at www.spotlighthealth.com, click on obesity, then support groups, there is a support group for plastic surgery. Sure you'd get lots of support and answers there.
   — Cindy R.