Article
Aftercare
Aftercare refers to the post-operative care and management required following gluteoplasty, body contouring, or related procedures. Proper aftercare is essential to minimise complications, support healing, and optimise aesthetic outcomes.
Key Elements of Aftercare
- Compression Garments: Wearing compression garments helps reduce swelling, support tissues, and improve contour. Duration and type depend on the procedure (e.g., BBL, implants, liposuction).
- Wound Care: Keep incisions clean and dry. Follow instructions for dressing changes and monitor for signs of infection (redness, discharge, fever).
- Mobility: Early gentle movement is encouraged to reduce the risk of blood clots, but strenuous activity and sitting directly on the buttocks should be avoided for several weeks, especially after fat transfer.
- Pain Management: Use prescribed painkillers as directed. Over-the-counter options may be suitable for mild discomfort.
- Massage & Lymphatic Drainage: Gentle massage or lymphatic drainage may be recommended to reduce swelling and prevent seroma formation, but only as advised by your surgeon.
- Hydration & Nutrition: Maintain a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins (especially C and zinc), and fluids to support tissue repair and immune function.
- Follow-Up Visits: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for suture removal, wound assessment, and monitoring of healing progress.
Complication Monitoring
Be alert for:
- Excessive swelling, pain, or bruising
- Signs of infection (fever, pus, spreading redness)
- Sudden asymmetry or hard lumps (may indicate seroma, hematoma, or fat necrosis)
- Numbness or persistent tingling (paresthesia)
Writing Tips
- Describe the sensory and emotional experience of aftercare: the feel of compression garments, the vulnerability of wound care, the anticipation of seeing results.
- Use aftercare scenes to explore intimacy, self-care, and the psychological impact of body transformation.
Example
"She peeled off the tight compression garment, wincing as cool air touched her swollen skin. Each gentle massage was a reminder of her body's resilience—and its new, unfamiliar shape."
Why this works: The example uses tactile and emotional detail to evoke the aftercare experience.