The Surgery Guide 📖

Everything Nicole wishes she knew before her surgery journey.

❤ The Founder Story

Nicole went through BBL, lipo, and tummy tuck procedures and came out the other side with one mission: to make sure no one else scrambles through recovery unprepared. This guide is her way of giving you the insider knowledge she had to learn the hard way.

✨ 10 Things I Wish I Knew

• Recovery is a full-time job. Clear your schedule for at least 2 weeks.
• The Day 3 Drop is real. You will feel worse before you feel better. That's normal.
• Hydration is everything. Liquid IV will be your best friend.
• Your faja (compression garment) is non-negotiable. Wear it as directed, every day.
• Lymphatic massages are a game changer. Start them as soon as your surgeon clears you.
• Arnica (pills and gel) reduces bruising significantly. Start it before surgery if you can.
• Hibiclens is a must for incision care. Keep it on hand.
• Stool softeners from day one. Trust the process.
• Swelling peaks around week 3. Don't panic. The fluff is coming.
• Compression socks prevent dangerous blood clots during recovery. Wear them.

📍 Surgeon Recommendations

Nicole personally worked with Dr. Cannon and also recommends doing your research on Dr. Earl and Dr. Luster. Always verify board certifications and before/after portfolios before booking any procedure. Your safety comes first.

💪 Lymphatic Massages

Lymphatic drainage massages help break up swelling, reduce fibrosis, and speed up your healing. In the Miami area, Nicole highly recommends Massages by Ari. Start massages as soon as your surgeon gives the green light. Plan for multiple sessions, especially in the first 4 weeks.

👗 Faja Stages Explained

Your compression garment (faja) goes through stages as you heal:

• Stage 1 (Weeks 1-3): Softer, post-surgical faja. Worn 24/7 except for cleaning.
• Stage 2 (Weeks 4-8+): Firmer compression faja for shaping and support.
• Faja strap adjusters help with fit as your swelling goes down.
• BBL pillow required when sitting during stage 1. No direct pressure on the booty.

🍏 Nutrition and Hydration

You need to "feed the fat" after a BBL. Your transferred fat cells need nutrients to survive and establish blood supply. Focus on protein-rich foods, healthy fats (avocado, nuts, olive oil), and complex carbs. Stay hydrated with Liquid IV or electrolyte drinks. Avoid excessive sodium, alcohol, and highly processed foods in the first few weeks.

⏳ The Recovery Timeline

• Days 1-3: The hardest stretch. Rest, pain management, and drainage care.
• Week 1-2: "The Swell" begins. Expect significant swelling and bruising. This is normal.
• Week 3-4: Swelling peaks. You may not love what you see yet. Stay patient.
• Months 2-3: Swelling begins to subside. Shape starts to emerge.
• Month 3-6: "The Fluff." Your results settle and the final shape becomes visible. Worth the wait.

⚠️ Red Flags to Watch For

Contact your surgeon immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Fever above 101.5°F
• Excessive redness, warmth, or discharge from incisions
• Severe chest pain or difficulty breathing
• One leg more swollen than the other (possible DVT)
• Foul-smelling drainage
• Extreme pain not controlled by prescribed medication