Reducing Bruising after Fleur De Lis Surgery

Dr Michael Kernohan

Causes and Solutions to Manage Bruising after Fleur De Lis Surgery

Undergoing Fleur De Lis surgery is associated with significant changes in body contour. However, like all surgical procedures, it comes with its share of post-operative challenges, one of which is bruising after Fleur de Lis surgery.

In this blog, Sydney Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Michael Kernohan will explore effective strategies to minimise bruising and facilitate a smoother, more comfortable recovery process.

Take the Quiz

Why Bruises Occur after Fleur de Lis Surgery

Bruises after surgery, such as Fleur De Lis surgery, occur due to the body’s natural response to the trauma of the surgical procedure. Here’s a detailed explanation of how bruises form:

  • Tissue Trauma: During surgery, there is inevitable trauma to the tissues, including skin, muscle, and sometimes even deeper structures. This trauma is caused by incisions, repositioning of tissues, and manipulation during the procedure
  • Blood Vessel Damage: The surgical process can lead to the rupture or damage of small blood vessels, particularly capillaries, which are the smallest blood vessels in the body. When these vessels are damaged, blood leaks out into the surrounding tissues
  • Blood Accumulation: The leaked blood accumulates in the tissue spaces outside of the blood vessels. This pooling of blood in the tissue causes the typical discolouration seen in a bruise. Initially, bruises may appear reddish due to the fresh blood, but as the blood starts to break down and is reabsorbed by the body, the bruise can change colours, often turning blue, purple, green, or yellow
  • Inflammatory Response: The body’s natural inflammatory response to the surgical trauma also contributes to bruising. This response causes swelling and can increase the leakage of blood from the capillaries
  • Body’s Healing Process: Over time, the body starts to heal. White blood cells and other mechanisms work to break down and reabsorb the blood that has leaked out. As this process progresses, the bruise gradually fades and the affected area returns to normal

Factors Influencing Bruising

The extent and severity of bruising can vary depending on many factors, including the patient’s age, skin type, overall health, the specific nature of the surgery, the plastic surgeon’s technique, and how the patient’s body reacts to trauma. Here are more details about these factors:

  • Patient’s Age: Age plays a significant role in how the body responds to trauma and heals. Older patients may experience more pronounced bruising, as skin and blood vessels become more fragile with age. The skin loses some of its protective fatty layer and elasticity, making it more susceptible to bruising
  • Skin Type and Condition: The condition and type of a patient’s skin can also affect bruising. Thinner skin tends to bruise more easily compared to thicker skin. Additionally, certain skin conditions or dermatological issues might predispose individuals to more extensive bruising
  • Overall Health and Medical Conditions: A patient’s general health significantly impacts how their body responds to surgery. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as blood clotting disorders, diabetes, or liver disease, may bruise more easily. Medications like blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs can also increase the likelihood and severity of bruising
  • Nature of the Surgery: The extent and location of the surgery play a crucial role in determining the amount of bruising. More extensive surgeries, or those involving areas with a dense network of blood vessels, can result in more bruising. Fleur De Lis surgery, for instance, involves significant tissue manipulation, which can lead to more pronounced bruising
  • Surgeon’s Technique: The skill and technique of the surgeon are critical factors. A surgeon who employs meticulous techniques to minimise tissue trauma can reduce the extent of bruising. The use of advanced surgical instruments and careful handling of tissues during the procedure can also play a significant role
  • Body’s Reaction to Trauma: Individual variations in the body’s response to surgical trauma can influence bruising. Some people naturally have a higher tendency to bruise due to factors like skin tone, blood vessel fragility, and genetic predispositions
  • Nutritional Status: Nutrition is another important factor. Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and iron, can impair the body’s ability to heal and increase susceptibility to bruising
  • Lifestyle Factors: Lifestyle choices, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, can exacerbate bruising. Smoking, in particular, impairs blood flow and can hinder the healing process, leading to more significant bruising and slower recovery
  • Post-operative Care: How a patient manages their recovery can also impact bruising. Adhering to post-operative instructions, such as avoiding strenuous activities, applying cold compresses, and proper wound care, can significantly reduce the severity of bruising

Download Dr Kernohan’s Guide to Abdominoplasty – Tummy Tuck Surgery

Abdominoplasty Surgery Guide
Abdominoplasty Surgery Guide
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

What Can Lead to Accentuated Bruising after Fleur De Lis Surgery

Fleur De Lis surgery can sometimes result in pronounced bruising. Understanding the factors that can lead to accentuated bruising is important for patients undergoing this procedure. Here are some elements that can contribute to increased bruising:

  • Blood Thinners and Certain Medications: Medications that thin the blood, including over-the-counter options like aspirin and ibuprofen, can increase the risk of bruising. Prescription blood thinners, certain herbal supplements (like fish oil, ginkgo biloba, and garlic), and even some vitamins (like vitamin E) can exacerbate bleeding and bruising. It’s important to discuss all medications and supplements with Dr Kernohan before the surgery
  • Alcohol and Smoking: Alcohol consumption can increase bleeding risks, leading to more significant bruising. Smoking, on the other hand, impairs circulation and oxygenation of tissues, which can not only increase bruising but also slow down the healing process
  • Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of certain nutrients, particularly vitamins C and K, can worsen bruising. Vitamin C is crucial for collagen formation and wound healing, while Vitamin K plays a key role in blood clotting. A diet deficient in these nutrients can make a patient more prone to extensive bruising
  • Pre-Existing Medical Conditions: Conditions that affect blood clotting or circulation, such as haemophilia, liver disease, or vascular disorders, can lead to increased bruising. It’s essential to disclose any such conditions to your plastic surgeon during the pre-operative consultation
  • Age and Skin Elasticity: Older patients or those with less elastic skin may experience more pronounced bruising. As the skin ages, it becomes thinner and more fragile, making it more susceptible to bruising
  • Patient’s Individual Healing Response: Individual differences in healing can also play a significant role. Some people naturally bruise more easily than others, and this can be influenced by genetic factors, overall health, and even lifestyle choices
  • Inadequate Post-Operative Care: Failure to follow post-operative instructions, such as not using compression garments, inadequate rest, or engaging in strenuous activities too soon after the surgery, can exacerbate bruising and swelling
  • Physical Activity Post-Surgery: Engaging in physical activities or exercises that strain the surgical area can lead to increased bruising and swelling. It’s crucial to allow the body adequate time to heal before resuming such activities
  • Dehydration: Not maintaining adequate hydration levels before and after surgery can affect blood circulation and increase the risk of bruising

By being aware of these factors, patients can take proactive steps to minimise their risk of excessive bruising following Fleur De Lis surgery. It’s always important to have an open and thorough discussion with Dr Kernohan about your medical history, lifestyle, and any concerns you may have regarding bruising and recovery.

Dr Kernohan’s Top Tips to Reduce Bruising after Fleur de Lis Surgery

These tips are designed to help patients navigate their recovery more comfortably and effectively:

  1. Pre-Surgery Nutrition: Begin preparing your body weeks before the surgery. Focus on a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Vitamin C, known for its role in healing and collagen production, and Vitamin K, which aids in blood clotting, are particularly beneficial. Foods like citrus fruits, leafy greens, and lean proteins are excellent choices
  2. Avoid Certain Substances: At least two weeks prior to your surgery, avoid medications and supplements that can increase bleeding risk, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain herbal supplements like ginkgo biloba, garlic, and fish oil. Also, refrain from alcohol and smoking, as they can impair healing and increase bruising
  3. Stay Hydrated: Good hydration is crucial both before and after surgery. It helps maintain healthy circulation and aids in reducing swelling and bruising
  4. Use of Arnica and Bromelain: Consider starting Arnica Montana and Bromelain supplements before the surgery. These natural remedies are known for their effectiveness in reducing swelling and bruising
  5. Post-Surgery Cold Compresses: Apply cold compresses to the affected area for the first 48 hours after surgery, but not directly against the skin. This can help reduce swelling and bruising
  6. Elevate the Surgical Area: Keep the operated area elevated as much as possible during the initial recovery phase. This helps in reducing blood pooling and minimises bruising
  7. Gentle Movement: While rest is important, gentle movements and light walking are encouraged to improve blood circulation, which aids in reducing bruising and swelling
  8. Adequate Rest and Sleep: Ensure you get plenty of rest and sleep with your body positioned correctly. Proper rest is crucial for your body’s healing process
  9. Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Adhere strictly to all post-operative care instructions provided by Dr Kernohan. This includes wound care, use of compression garments if recommended, and attending all follow-up appointments
  10. Monitor Your Progress: Keep an eye on your recovery. If you notice any unusual symptoms or if the bruising seems excessive, don’t hesitate to contact Dr Kernohan or your healthcare provider

FAQs about Fleur de Lis Surgery

FAQs

Further Reading about Body Surgery with Dr Michael Kernohan