Containing the Swelling...

temporarynicole
on 3/19/10 5:46 am
I am using Bromelain with Quecetin, and Arnica Montana - is there anything else I can take or do to get some of this swelling under control. I know it's a fact of post-surgery - but it would be great if I could do just SOMETHING to get it down a bit.
The worst area right now is the space between my breasts and my stomach binder. So my rib cage is about 10 inches wider than it originally was.

Can I do hot or cold? What else!:) Should I ACE bandage it?
Surgery Date 1-29-09
Surgery Weight
317
Lowest Weight 175
Current Weight 195
Surgeon Goal
180
Personal Goal
165

Total lost since surgery 142 pounds!!
(deactivated member)
on 3/19/10 5:52 am - West Central FL☼RIDA , FL
Laying down and elevating legs till they are above the heart helps with the lower body. 

Have you thought about adding a second binder to hug the upper area?  For about 2 months I wore a full compression garment AND had my stomach binder on.   They also sell binders in different lengths...mine had 3 strips on it but they sell them that have 4 and even 6!
It might help adding a second binder....

Melissa M.
on 3/19/10 12:13 pm - Seabrook, TX
You seem to be doing all the right things. Other than drinking plenty of water and eating low sodium foods and keeping your feet up, there really isn't much left. Like you said, it's just a normal part of recovery. The swelling is going to get worse before it gets better. You are so early out that it may even get worse than it is today. I also drank lots of green tea which they say helps, but who knows. I was still swelling somewhat at 8 months. As you get more mobile and get out, you can go to Kohls or Macy's and find a stage 2 type garment that helps with your compression. You can ask Dr L or his nurse to see if they have something they recommend. Also, you get a complimentary lymphatic massage with your surgery and you will notice a BIG difference with that. Enough to convince you to buy a package of them!

Hang in there, it will get better!
(deactivated member)
on 3/19/10 2:47 pm
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