SURGERY PREP: START YOUR RESEARCH HERE

Learn about all things Fajas, pre-op preparation, and post-op recovery. Browse the below topics to get your questions answered and get prepared for what is ahead of you if you're approaching your plastic surgery date!

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Pre-Op Check List: BBL, Back-Lift, Tummy Tuck, Mommy Make-Over, & Lipo 360

Post-Op Massages:
Schedule your post-op massages well in advance, ideally a month before your surgery date. Massages are crucial for proper recovery and optimal results.

Stage 1 Faja:
If your surgeon doesn't provide a stage 1 garment, consider purchasing one. Choose a size based on your hip measurement, plus an additional 4 inches for a BBL, or stick to your hip measurement for other procedures. I invite you to check out my very own Stage 1 faja, which is a new and improved Stage 1 experience designed by yours truly with expert inpout from my double-board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Azizi: BDY Stage 1 Faja -> With the BDY Faja you only have to add 2" to your pre-op hip measurement if you're ordering ahead of a BBL/fat transfer to hips.

Stage 2 Faja:
About 1 to 2 weeks before your surgery, purchase a stage 2 faja. I recommend adding 4" to your hip measurement if you're ordering pre-op for a BBL or any other fat transfer. if you're not getting a fat transfer to your booty, you can stick to your pre-op hip measurement, as that won't change.


I highly recommend the BDY Stage 2 Faja here, designed by me in collaboration with Dr. Ramsen Azizi. It combines expert knowledge, practical functionality, and a sexy design. I thought of every possible detail when I designed these garments to make sure you are set up for success throughout your recovery and beyond: Shop BDY Stage 2 fajas here

Supplies:
Grab antibacterial body wash for pre-op and post-op care. Prepare easy-to-digest foods like soups and shakes. Start taking probiotic yogurt two weeks before surgery for smooth digestion.

Wardrobe:
Gather comfortable post-op clothing, including tank tops, stretchy underwear, a cozy robe, and stretchy pants. Be prepared for your period with pads, tampons, or menstrual cups.

Medication and Drains:
Fill your prescriptions before surgery. If you'll have surgical drains, watch instructional videos on proper care.

Comfort at Home:
Consider items for comfort at home, such as icy hot for joints and a shower liner to protect your mattress. Arrange a comfortable ride home with pillows and blankets.

Restroom Tips:
Use a red solo cup for easier restroom visits. Stock up on baby wipes for post-#2 cleaning.

Work and Recovery:
Pre-plan stretchy work clothes if returning early. For those working from home, a standing desk converter can be convenient.

Laying and Sitting Comfort:
Explore options for comfortable laying and sitting positions during recovery.

Faja Alterations:
Around week 3-5 post-op, send your faja for alterations. Our five-step mail-in process ensures expert alterations with a 24-hour rush service available.

Remember, the key to a smoother recovery lies in preparation. You deserve the best on your journey to becoming your most confident self. Prioritize self-care and positivity throughout the surgical process.

What to Buy for Surgery & What Is a Complete Waste of Money!

LIPO FOAMS:
A must-have post-op supply! A multipack on Amazon for under $40 is a steal. Opt for a 5-pack for ample coverage. Add neatly folded hand towels for extra padding and comfort. Michelin Man vibes are temporary, lasting up to four weeks or until your faja is snatched!

360 FOAM:
Save your coins! Instead of splurging on a 360 foam, use a large towel neatly folded. Place it in your faja for additional support during the first 2-3 weeks when your faja starts to get loose.

FEMALE URINAL:
Here's a coin-saving tip! Skip the purple female urinal and opt for a game-changer – a red Solo cup! Pee standing up for convenience during the initial weeks post-surgery. It's practically free and avoids spills and accidents.

MEASURING TAPE:
An absolute must for tracking recovery progress and purchasing/altering fajas. Grab one for 99 cents at Walmart or around $2 on Amazon. A small investment that goes a long way.

BBL PILLOW:
A complete waste! Sitting on an oversized brick is uncomfortable and cuts off circulation. Not ideal for fat survival. Consider alternatives for a more comfortable recovery.

BOPPY PILLOW/HALF MOON FOAM ROLLER:
Magical booty-saving devices! The Boppy Pillow, positioned right, creates a booty hammock, providing comfort and support. The Half Moon Foam Roller is a dream for comfortable sitting, especially in the bathroom. Both are game-changers during BBL recovery.

Recovering from surgery can be entertaining! Get yourself a Boppy Pillow or a Half Moon Foam Roller for a more comfortable journey. Your booty will thank you, and recovery might just be a bit more fun.

ICY HOT: The BFF for Your Elbows and Knees

For those BBL moments where you find yourself perched on your elbows and knees, ICY HOT becomes your new bestie. This magical potion soothes your skin and joints, making you feel both icy and hot at the same time.

Probiotics: The Superheroes of Smooth Moves

Anesthesia can make your tummy a bit grumpy, causing constipation. Enter probiotics, the superheroes of smooth moves. Start incorporating Activia yogurts or any probiotic two weeks before surgery and continue during the first week of recovery for happy, healthy poops.

Stage 2 Fajas: Compression with a Hug

Stage 2 Fajas, the superheroes of compression, swoop in to reduce swelling, prevent fluid build-up, and help your skin re-adhere to the muscle layer. BDY Fajas crafted by The Faja Doctor and Dr. Ramsen Azizi is a game-changer in the world of fajas, blending functionality and fashion for confidence during recovery. Shop BDY Fajas Here

Tylenol Max Strength: Sayonara, Pain!

Bid farewell to post-op discomfort with Tylenol Extra Strength. A suitable alternative to opioids, it keeps pain in check without the side effects. Say goodbye to Percocets and hello to a pain-free, nausea-free, and constipation-free recovery.

Shower Liner: Because Cleanliness Is Next to Fabulousness

For those recovering at home or in a hotel, a shower liner from Walmart is a golden tip. This affordable investment keeps your bed pristine and worries at bay. Just ensure it doesn't interfere with any surgical drains for safety.

Massage Roller: Rollin', Rollin', Rollin'

The massage roller, a personal preference, can be substituted with a rolling pin or wine bottle for those looking to save some coins. For a bit of a splurge, check out massage rollers on Amazon or explore options at stores like TJ Maxx.

Arnica Tea, Cream, or Gel: Bruises, Be Gone!

Arnica tea, cream, or gel helps reduce bruising and swelling. While not a must-have, it can be incorporated into your recovery journey. Look for organically-sourced options like Bruise Juice by Big Butts No Lies or consider pineapple juice as an alternative.

Silicone Scar Gel: Winning the Battle of Scars

For scars beyond lipo holes, silicone scar gel is a must-have. Opt for quality over cost-savings with organically-sourced options like "Biocorneum," available on Amazon.

Boards: Oh, Michelin Man

Boards, often hyped, might not be necessary for everyone. Backboards and ab boards can be skipped, and a folded lipo foam can serve the same purpose without sliding issues. Lumbar molder triangle boards are somewhat helpful but can be replaced with a folded lipo foam for convenience and cost-effectiveness.

Common Plastic Surgery Acronyms & Abbreviations

ABPS – THE AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY

AE – ABDONIMAL ETCHING

AL – ARM LIFT

AR – AREOLA REDUCTION

ASAPS – AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY

ASPS – AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PLASTIC SURGEONS

BA – BREAST AUGMENTATION

BBL – BRAZILIAN BUTT LIFT

BBR – BILATERAL BREAST REDUCTION

BC – BLOOD CLOT

BFT – BREAST FAT TRANSFER

BL – BREAST LIFT

BMI – BODY MASS INDEX

BR – BREAST REDUCTION

BR – BREAST RECONSTRUCTION

CC – CUBIC CENTIMETER (1000 CC = 1 LITER = 34 FL.OZ.)

CO – COLOMBIA

CW – CURRENT WEIGHT

DVT – DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS

DOLL – SOMEONE WHO HAD PLASTIC SURGERY

DPO – DAYS POST OP

DR – DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

DR – DOCTOR

DRA – DOCTORANDA (FEMALE FORM OF DOCTOR USED IN SPANISH-SPEAKING COUNTRIES)

ETT – EXTENDED TUMMY TUCK

FACS – FELLOW OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SURGEONS

FDL TT – FLEUR-DE-LIS TUMMY TUCK

FL – FACE LIFT

FUPA – FAT UPPER PUBIC AREA

FT – FAT TRANSFER

GW – GOAL WEIGHT

HR – HERNIA REPAIR

HB/HGB/HEMO – HEMOGLOBIN

HYBRID DOLL – HAD SURGERY WITH MORE THAN ONE PLASTIC SURGEONS

LS/LIPO – LIPOSUCTION

LBL – LOWER BODY LIFT

LDM – LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE

MPO – MONTHS POST OP

MMO – MOMMY MAKEOVER

MTT – MINI TUMMY TUCK

MR – MUSCLE REPAIR

MD – MEDICAL DOCTOR

MX – MEXICO

MTL – MEDIAL THIGH LIFT

PO – POST-OP

PS – PLASTIC SURGEON

PE – PULMONARY EMBOLISM

ROUND 1 – YOUR FIRST PLASTIC SURGERY PROCEDURE

ROUND 2 – 2 SEPARATE INSTANCES OF PLASTIC SURGERY PROCEDURES

RH – RECOVERY HOUSE

RX – PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE

SW – STARTING WEIGHT

SX SIS – SURGERY SISTER (SOMEONE YOU ARE SHARING YOUR JOURNEY WITH WHO IS HAVING SURGERY AROUND THE SAME TIME AS YOU; RECOVERY TOGETHER -VIRTUALLY OR PHYSICALLY)

SX – PLASTIC SURGERY

TL – THIGH LIFT

TT – TUMMY TUCK

VET – PLASTIC SURGERY VETERAN: SOMEONE WHO EXPERIENCED PLASTIC SURGERY

WPO – WEEKS POST OP

Choosing the Right Faja Style

1. Pull-Up Style Fajas:

Pull-Up Style Overview:
Pull-up style fajas are reminiscent of really tight skinny jeans – you've got to pull them up. Only an option for those with a waist-to-hip difference *under* 15 inches. Curvier-shaped individuals will find it challenging to get it past the thighs especially once the waist is made to fit as tightly as desired.

Pull up style fajas also lack the needed adjustability in the lower abdomen, which most of my customers care about a lot.

I, myself, have a 19" waist-to-hip difference and really struggled with pull up style fajas, as they caused me a lot of pain while pulling them over my sore derriere after my BBL.

2. Step-Into Style Fajas:

Step-Into Style Overview:
Step-into style fajas offer easy access without pulling anything over your potentially sore booty & hips. Versatile and suitable for various body types, especially beneficial for those concerned about lower abdomen compression, like tummy tuck warriors.

Brand Recommendations:
BDY Fajas has been designed this way, as well, to unproblematically fit as many body types as possible and provide maximum adjustability options as your body gets smaller: Shop BDY Fajas here!

Best for Larger Waist-to-Hip Difference:
Individuals with 15 inches or more of a waist-to-hip difference find the step-into faja to be the most valuable. It allows for lower abdomen alterations without worrying about getting it past the thighs.

How a Stage 2 Faja Should Fit and Feel

Fit Overview:
A Stage 2 faja should provide firm compression without causing excessive discomfort. It should snugly conform to your body contours, offering support to the treated areas while promoting proper healing. The fit should be secure but not overly tight, allowing for optimal circulation.

Feeling Secure:
When wearing a Stage 2 faja, you should feel secure and well-supported. It plays a crucial role in minimizing swelling, promoting skin adherence, and enhancing the overall results of your procedure.

Comfort is Key:
While firm compression is necessary, comfort is equally important. The faja should not cause intense pain, pinching, or digging into your skin. It should allow for natural movements without hindering your daily activities.

Breathing and Mobility:
You should be able to breathe comfortably and maintain a reasonable range of motion. If you feel shortness of breath or restricted movement, the faja may be too tight.

Signs It's Not Too Tight on Your Hips:

  1. No Excessive Discomfort:
    You should not experience excessive discomfort or pain around your hips. While initial compression is expected, persistent pain may indicate that the faja is too tight.
  2. No Skin Irritation:
    The faja should not cause skin irritation, chafing, or redness on your hips. If you notice any signs of skin issues, it could be a sign of improper fit.
  3. Smooth and Even Compression:
    Check for smooth and even compression throughout the hips. Uneven compression or bulging may suggest that the faja is not fitting properly.
  4. Proper Circulation:
    Ensure that your circulation is not compromised. If you experience numbness, tingling, or discoloration in the hip area, the faja may be too tight.

Regular Assessments:
Regularly assess how the Stage 2 faja fits and feels, especially during the initial wear. If you have concerns about the fit, consult with your healthcare provider or faja specialist for guidance.

Remember, each individual's body is unique, so the right fit may vary. Listen to your body's signals and make adjustments accordingly.

Thoughts on Stage 3s

In my professional opinion, the concept of Stage 3 fajas seems to be driven more by marketing than a genuine necessity for post-surgery recovery. I firmly believe that a well-altered Stage 2 faja can adequately serve its purpose throughout the entire recovery process. Here are some considerations:

1. Aggressive Alterations for Enhanced Compression:
Any Stage 2 faja that is sent in for aggressive alterations essentially transforms into what some label as a "Stage 3" faja. The key lies in the proper alterations to achieve the desired level of compression and support.

2. Practicality Over Marketing:
I do not endorse the idea of Stage 3 fajas as a distinct category. From my experience, many fajas labeled as Stage 3 are often similar to regularly altered Stage 2 fajas. The addition of a thick layer of latex in some Stage 3 fajas can make them less practical for everyday wear, resembling heavy scuba diving suits.

3. Limited Alteration Options:
Fajas with a thick layer of latex, commonly found in certain Stage 3 designs, pose challenges for alterations. Due to this thickness, they cannot be modified through alterations to suit your evolving needs. Unfortunately, latex fajas need alterations just as often as non-latex fajas, so I recommend to just avoid them.

4. Save Your Investment:
My recommendation is to save your financial investment by focusing on a well-fitted, properly altered Stage 2 faja. This approach can offer the required compression, comfort, and support without the need for additional stages.

In conclusion, prioritize practicality and effectiveness over the marketing hype surrounding Stage 3 fajas. A carefully altered Stage 2 faja, tailored to your unique requirements, can be worn throughout your entire recovery journey.

Thong Fajas, Panty Fajas, Butt-Cut-Out Fajas, and Faja Vests for Plastic Surgery Recovery

Using thong fajas, panty fajas, butt-cut-out fajas, or faja vests for plastic surgery recovery is not recommended. These styles lack essential lower abdominal compression needed for optimal recovery. The legs attached to a faja, even if short, contribute significantly to tight compression in the lower abdomen, crucial for addressing swelling, especially with the influence of gravity.

Thong fajas, panty fajas, butt-cut-out fajas, and faja vests primarily focus on areas other than the lower abdomen. They may compress the waist or offer other features but do not adequately address the key area where post-surgery swelling tends to accumulate. For comprehensive recovery and optimal results, it is advisable to choose fajas with full coverage, ensuring proper compression of the lower abdominal region.

Waist trainers and binders are not ideal for plastic surgery recovery. While they may provide compression around the waist, they lack the coverage necessary for the lower abdomen. Plastic surgery recovery requires targeted compression to manage swelling effectively. Therefore, it is recommended to opt for fajas with a design that includes the entire lower abdominal area.

Make informed choices during your recovery journey to promote a smooth and comfortable healing process. If you have specific concerns about faja styles, consult with your healthcare provider or a faja specialist for personalized advice. Remember, choosing the right faja style plays a crucial role in achieving the desired results.

Arm & Thigh Lipo Faja Recommendation

When it comes to fajas for arm and thigh liposuction recovery, it's essential to consider options that provide optimal compression for effective healing. Here are some recommendations:

  • Fajas with Long Legs: Opting for fajas with long legs is an excellent choice for compressing the thighs, promoting a more robust recovery. If you later find the legs too long for your needs, a leg shortening service add-on is available.
  • Leg Compression Sleeves: For flexibility in outfit choices, you can choose fajas with short legs and separately purchase thigh compression sleeves. These sleeves, commonly used by professional athletes, can be repurposed for post-liposuction recovery. Various options are available on platforms like Amazon.
  • Separate Arm Lipo Garment: For those undergoing arm liposuction, getting a separate arm lipo garment is highly recommended for several reasons:

Built-in sleeves in fajas are often not tight enough, and fajas with built-in sleeves can be bulky and challenging to conceal under clothing, especially in warm climates. Choosing a separate arm compression garment offers greater flexibility and effectiveness.