DIVI9 CHAT

FIBROSIS

BY RAQUEL WALKER

Adding clarity to the Post-op experience A couple of words in the post-op world have gained fame in being dreadful words no client wishes to hear. Instead, I will simplify a couple by building awareness and providing self-care tips. We often fear what we don’t understand.

At the mention of the word fibrosis, my client froze in place, holding her breath as if it were her last. I quickly launched into the simplest definition my mind could organize to help her exhale.

Fibrosis quite simply is the formation of scar tissue. Boom. Simple enough, so to understand why and when it becomes a cause for concern, let’s take a walk through a bit of the post-op process.

YOUR FIRST MASSAGE POST-OP

You just had liposuction, and now you are with a massage therapist for your first massage. This first massage is essential because you are experiencing what is called lymphedema. The cause is clear, you had an invasive procedure. The initial massage will push the excess protein-rich fluids out of the body. Specifically, these fluids will empty through the lower incision sites at your initial appointments. Note this type of massage can be referred to as a post-op massage, but is not an actual lymphatic treatment. The most effective treatment does change at different stages of recovery and healing. A more significant amount of swelling is expected and normal at this stage.

According to the Academy of Lymphatic Studies, fluid accumulation will progressively harden if left untreated, resulting in lymphostatic fibrosis, aka fibrosis. The concern is not only aesthetic; this hardening can create obstructions that limit the movement of fluids through the lymphatic system. For a condition such as inflammation to be noted as chronic, it must persist over several months. Persistent inflammation results in protein or collagen deposits that over accumulate. The emphasis here is over-accumulation.

FIBROSIS TREATMENT

Prevention is my favorite strategy. After the reduction of inflammation is under control following the first few sessions, we can now begin to monitor for changes in hardness or visible irregularities. Various tools are available to treat these concerns, such as cupping and soft tissue mobilization tools.

For treatment in between sessions, massaging the area in small circular motions in both directions aids in softening and loosening the tissue.

BENEFITS OF COMPRESSION Early compression aids in the reduction of inflammation. Let’s pause for a moment and clear something up. There is no need to end your inflammation overnight though you may wish that to be the case. There are lots of great things happening as a result of the inflammation. However, we want to maintain a reduction and continue to progressively reduce the inflammation. With that being said, with proper treatment and compression, you will not look or feel the same on day five as you do on day one. Compression is most effective in the first three weeks.

HOW MANY SESSIONS IS ENOUGH

There is a suggested total of 10 sessions over time. Clients may begin with four sessions for a few reasons: You are not prepared and don’t know what to expect: it is incredible how many clients are completely unaware of the needs they will face after surgery. I prefer for you to experience the benefits first hand.

You have already received a few sessions, mainly if this was a destination procedure.

You have a robust support system, practice self-care between sessions, and maintain your progress.

Characteristics of clients who opt for six to twelve sessions: Booking immediately after surgery. Excess worry and anxiety about the healing process. Lower tolerance for pain and discomfort. Feelings of detachment from their body. Scared to perform self-care. A variance of compression due to personal or recommended choices. May return to work in a shorter time frame.

Characteristics of clients who become lifestyle members: Passion for self-care. Recognizes the added benefits such as the appearance of the skin, improved digestion, etc. Appreciation for the Divi9 experience.

Mange inflammation in the kitchen I am frequently asked about what foods to eat. While I am not a nutritionist, a great resource is “Southern California Plastic Surgery Cookbook” by Kathleen Lission, CLT. This easy read is a great book to add to your pre-op planning to get your kitchen organized with a few essentials such as ginger, cinnamon, rosemary, sage, and other healing herbs and spices.

“For treatment in between sessions, massaging the area in small circular motions in both directions aids in softening and loosening the tissue.”