Pre-Surgical Shopping List

Please Note:
The items listed here are suggestions for things that might make your recovery a bit easier, based on what was helpful for my clients, as well as items that have been recommended by those in surgical recovery groups.

Some items may be more useful to you, based on your surgery, than others. Even though I have taken some steps to organize items by certain procedures and categories, please use your own discretion when considering what to purchase.
Regarding compression and fajas - if your surgeon has a recommended brand or type, please follow their advice first and foremost. - One of the reasons I've made these resources available is for those who may have received little to no guidance after surgery. (This does sometimes happen depending on where or with whom your surgery was done.)
These are only suggestions.

In the spirit of transparency, I may make commissions on some of these items. This helps support me and helps me to provide "lo-bono" sessions to clients who identify with historically marginalized groups who may not be able to afford lymphatic drainage care, but need it to help improve their quality of life.

The Most Useful Essentials

These are the most common, and useful items for bodily cosmetic procedures, including liposuction, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), breast procedures, Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), etc.
However, there are lists below of additional items specifically for certain procedures, as well as a list of recovery items for neck & face lifts.

Item Name	Product Description	Notes:
Blissford Plastic Mattress Protector Full, Fitted Sheet Style, Waterproof	In all bed sizes - Waterproof, Vinyl Mattress Cover, Heavy Duty Breathable	Protects your mattress and also makes it easier for you to roll over in bed when you're sore and moving around is harder to do in the first couple of weeks.
Amazon Basics Puppy Pads with Quick-Dry 5-Layer Leak-Proof Design	X-Large Size 28 x 34 Inch, Pack of 40, Blue & White	Extremely helpful in protecting your sheets from incisional fluid leakage the first few days after surgery.
Micropore Surgical Tape	1 in. x 10 yd./Tan/1 Single Roll	Used to secure wound dressings over incisions. Hypoallergenic & water resistant.
Cetaphil Face and Body Wipes,	Gentle Skin Cleansing Cloths, 50 Count, Twin Pack, for Dry, Sensitive Skin, Flip Top Closure.	Useful in staying clean the 1st couple of days until you're cleared to take a shower
SHEWEE Flexi	The Original Female Urinal – Made in The UK – Reusable, Flexible & Portable Urination Device	Can be used with fajas that have a groin opening, to make going to the restroom easier/without removing your full garment.
ForPro Professional Collection Extra Large Hand Mirror with Handle	9" W x 12" L, Multi-Purpose Handheld Mirror with Distortion-Free Reflection, Black	Helpful for checking on incisions that you might not be able to see, for example on the back (back & "bra-roll " liposuction), underarm (upper arm lipo), etc.
Sukuos Large Weekly Pill Organizer - 7 Day (4 Times a Day)	Moisture-Resistant, Daily Pill Box Medicine Cases for Vitamin/Fish Oil/Supplements - Rainbow Colors	Keep your antibiotics, supplements, & any pain meds accounted for.
RMS 34 Inch Extra Long Reacher Grabber	Foldable Gripper and Reaching Tool with Rotating Jaw	Particularly helpful if you've have a tummy tuck and cannot bend over, had a breast procedure and have limited arm/shoulder range of motion, or if you are wearing a lot of foam in your faja; making if difficult to bend.
RMS Deluxe 28 Inches Long Dressing Stick	Dressing Aid for Shoes, Socks, Shirts and Pants	Can be helpful in putting on socks, shoes, or pants if you cannot bend over or have limited range of motion.
YSSOA Folding Camping Stool, Portable, Collapsible	Camp Stool, Folding Foot Rest for Lightweight Compact Chair, Foldable Footstool Ottoman	An easy solution if you need to prop your feet up to rest or sleep more upright.
Drive Medical RTL12202KDR Shower Chair with Back, Adjustable Stool with Suction Feet	Shower Seat for Inside Shower or Tub, Bathroom Bench Bath Chair 300 LB Weight Cap, Grey	Surgery can leave you feeling tired more quickly than usual. A shower chair makes it safer for you to shower without falling. Also helpful if you are carrying around drains after surgery.
Drive Medical 10210-1 2-Button Folding Walker with Wheels	Rolling Walker, Front Wheel Walker, Lightweight Walkers for Seniors and Adults Weighing Up To 350 Pounds, Adjustable Height, Silver	Particularly helpful after tummy tuck or lipedema removal surgeries, when walking feels a bit difficult.
MedVance Soft Silicone Tape with Perforation for Easy Cut Size	1" Width (1 Pack, 5 Yards)	For FULLY HEALED INCISIONS - preferably with surgeon's approval. Helps flatten and approve the appearance of incisional scars.
INNERNEED Soft Silicone Brush Handheld Skin Brush	Skin-friendly soft silicone body brush is suitable for all kinds of skin. Gentle on the skin, does not cause irritation or redness, & is more durable and hygienic than a loofah and does not feel scratchy.	This is the brush that I recommend using as part of my online, selfceare/MLD course.

Comfy Clothing for the Recovery Period

Many folks struggle with finding clothing after surgery that is comfortable, easy to put on, easy to care for, & is also stylish. Here are a few selections in my search for clothing that meets these criteria.

Item Name	Item Description	Item Image
CUSHIONAIRE Women's Feather Cloud Recovery Slide Sandals with +Comfort	Tons of different colors
Womens Tank Tops Seamless	Black, White, Gray, or Nude
DAVID ARCHY Tank Tops - 3 Pack - Various Colors	Bamboo, Rayon, Women's Camisoles/Undershirts - 3 Pack
Minibee Ruffle Midi Dress	Oversize Casual with Pockets
Poetsky Summer Tunic Tops for Leggings	with Pockets, Short Sleeve, Casual, Long T Shirts
Poetsky Long Sweater to Wear with Leggings	Long Sleeve, Tunic Tops, Loose Fit, Dressy, Tunic Sweaters w/ Pockets
Jacansi Women's V-Neck Casual Maxi Dress	Long Sleeve/Short Sleeve, with Hoodie & Pockets
OFEEFAN Women's Fall Outfits, Tunic Dress	Long Sleeve, with Pockets, Buttons
Natural Feelings Buttercloud High Waisted Leggings	Ultra Soft Stretch Opaque Slim Yoga Leggings
Juzo Basic 20-30 mmHg Compression Stockings, Knee High, Open Toe	Compression Socks for Women for Moderate Edema, Post-Op

Breast Lift, Mastectomy, & Reconstruction

Item Name	Item Description	Notes:
Patterned Post Shoulder Surgery Shirt for Women - Fully Tear Away, 3/4 sleeves	Floral, vintage, V-neck,waistline designs, 3/4 sleeves,hidden snap buttons,curved hem and other fashionable and practical elements.	Our post shoulder surgery shirts are made of top-quality blended fabric, skin-friendly, breathable and soft, allowing the skin to breathe better, easy and comfortable to wear while focusing on your recovery.
Surgery Shirt for Women Tear Away 3/4 Sleeve	Full Open Side Snap Adaptive Clothing. - Full tear-away side snaps simplify dressing without joint strain, accommodating limited mobility needs.	Privacy-Focused Closure System: Full-length side snaps enable gentle garment removal. Skin-Friendly Comfort Fabric: 65% polyester, 30% cotton, and 5% spandex blend
Post Surgery Recovery Night Gown Robe with Drain Pockets	4 inner pockets to carry drains or pain pumps. Top-quality materials made of peach skin fabrics that will keep the skin fresh. ¾ sleeve length that eases the IV access.	Made by the Snatched Body brand.
Seatbelt Pillow for Post-Surgery Comfort	Plush, Supportive Cushion for Chest & Abdominal Surgery Recovery	Designed by a double mastectomy, cancer survivor, woman owned business.
ReCoverease Mastectomy Drain Pouch for Breast Cancer Treatment & Recovery Supplies	Essential Post Surgery Must Haves & Recovery Gift - Comfortable Drain Holder Belt (Petite 0-10)	Available in sizes XS - XL, designed by a double mastectomy, cancer survivor, woman owned business.
Drain Holder Adjustable Belt for JP Drainage Bulb	After Tummy Tuck, Post Breast Surgery, Supplies, Mastectomy, Cancer Recovery	Drain bulbs attach to belt
TRS \| Pour Through Mesh Drain Holder Bag	Ideal for Shower Post-Surgery \| Mastectomy \| Tummy Tuck \| Limited Mobility Aid \| Bathroom Safety \| Medical Drain Belt	Pockets for holding drain bulbs.

Compression Accessories

Item Name	Item Description	Notes:
ContourMD Medical Grade Post Lipo Foam Compression Sheets (3-Sheet Set)	ContourMD has more than 35 years of experience in manufacturing medical compression garment for post-surgical recovery processes.	These are the highest quality lipo-foam sheets that I have found. I recommend these over any other lip-foam sheets available on Amazon.
Closecret Women's Longline Corset Bra Extender for Bustiers Shapewear Waist Cincher	Package included: 2 pcs of bra extenders(18 Hooks) with black & nude. 3/4 inch(1.9cm) spacing between two hook centers.	Extenders can be used when moving into a smaller/next stage faja if you want to minimize the number of garments you'll need to buy, - Size down 2 sizes, and use these to expand your faja. Then remove as swelling subsides.
Waist Foam Boards (Pair) \| Lateral Compression Foams for a Snatched Waist	These lipo foam boards help reduce swelling and promote a beautifully sculpted waistline.	Great for preventing fibrosis at the flanks. Shaped to perfectly hug your waist, giving you superior comfort and targeted support right where you need it.
SNATCHED BODY -360 Compression Board \| Full Torso Post-Lipo & Abdominoplasty Waist Support	This unique wrap around compression board covers and protects your entire midsection; abdomen, waist, and back. It ensures your compression garment applies pressure evenly for a smooth, consistent contour all the way around.	Beyond just shaping, it gives your back some extra TLC, supporting your posture.
Abdominal Board \| Post-Op Compression Foam Board with Silicone for Lipo-Marks	Spreads pressure evenly across your abdomen, keeping your skin taut and smooth. No more worries about wrinkles or permanent marks messing with your pristine results.	The body-safe silicone bars apply targeted pressure, working to mold and visibly improve the appearance of any lipo-marks, ensuring a super uniform and aesthetically pleasing finish. They also keep the board securely in place.
IMPRESA Lumbar Molder Liposuction Back Board - One Size	Beige Polystyrene - Breathable Post Surgery Compression Board - Low Back Support	May be more well fitted for longer torsos.
Lumbar Board for Lipo 360 Recovery \| Post Surgery BBL Back Board - by Snatched Body	Medical-Grade Quality: Durable, safe, and expertly designed for your peace of mind. Comfortable to Wear All Day: No irritation or stiffness, just reliable support so you can heal confidently.	Essential After Lipo 360 or BBL: Reduces swelling, creases, and fluid retention. Contours to Your Body: Molds perfectly under your faja with no bulges or irritation.
Contour Fajas - Wrap Around Foam	This accessory is fitted inside the faja to provide equal and adequate compression to the torso. The compression reduces swelling and helps prevent the build up of fluid.	Made and distributed from Colombia. The wrap around lipo foam helps the skin to reattach to the muscle after a liposuction procedure.
CaliCurves Fupa Compression Pad	Adds compression in mons pubis/"fupa" area to reduce swelling after cosmetic procedures. Item can be hand washed and air dried.

Tummy Tuck/Abdominoplasty Recovery:

Item Name	Item Description	Notes:
Nylatex Wrap -- 4" Wide x 36" Long	3 Pack - made by Chattanooga brand	I recommend these for clients having excess swelling in the lower abdomen (resembling a "muffin top") after TT. Using this as a binder to "scoop" the swelling in and lift up, helps reduce swelling.
Nylatex Wrap -- 6" Wide x 48" Long	1 Pack - made by Chattanooga brand	I recommend these for clients having excess swelling in the lower abdomen (resembling a "muffin top") after TT. Using this as a binder to "scoop" the swelling in and lift up, helps reduce swelling.
Seatbelt Pillow for Post-Surgery Comfort	Plush, Supportive Cushion for Chest & Abdominal Surgery Recovery	Designed by a double mastectomy, cancer survivor, woman owned business.
Post Surgery Recovery Night Gown Robe with Drain Pockets	4 inner pockets to carry drains or pain pumps. Top-quality materials made of peach skin fabrics that will keep the skin fresh. ¾ sleeve length that eases the IV access.	Made by the Snatched Body brand.
ReCoverease Mastectomy Drain Pouch for Breast Cancer Treatment & Recovery Supplies	Essential Post Surgery Must Haves & Recovery Gift - Comfortable Drain Holder Belt (Petite 0-10)	Available in sizes XS - XL, designed by a double mastectomy, cancer survivor, woman owned business.
Drain Holder Adjustable Belt for JP Drainage Bulb	After Tummy Tuck Post Breast Surgery Supplies Mastectomy Cancer Recovery Large	Drain bulbs attach to belt.
TRS \| Pour Through Mesh Drain Holder Bag	Ideal for Shower Post-Surgery \| Mastectomy \| Tummy Tuck \| Limited Mobility Aid \| Bathroom Safety \| Medical Drain Belt	Pockets for holding drain bulbs.

BBL Recovery & Preparation:

Item Name	Item Description	Notes:
Inflatable Avocado Pool Float with Ball Water (L)	Approx. 59in * 43.3in *10in( Fully inflated )	*MIXED REVIEWS on this item. Some BBL clients have used this to sleep on & swear by it. Others felt that it did not work at all for them at all. Others said that it was fine for sitting for a while to watch a movie.
Boppy Nursing Pillow Organic Original Support, Sand Criss Cross	Firm, Hypoallergenic Fiber Fill with 100% Organic Cotton Pillow	Can be used to sit comfortably if you find other BBL pillows uncomfortable.
BBL Pillow Toilet Seat Riser / Lift	Easy to Clean and Sanitize. Water resistant and easy to wash and sanitize. Portable & Lightweight.	Firm foam with a slight softness to elevate the butt and relieve pressure onto the thigh area while using the toilet.
BBL PIllow - Snatched Body	Allows For Safe Sitting	Preserves Perfect BBL Shape, Keeps Fat Cells Intact Minimizes Bruising, Offers Extremely Comfortable Support

My BBL Cushion System

These are the components of the set-up that I use for all of my BBL clients.
*This works best on a firm mattress. or if you have access to a massage table or something similar. Results may vary on softer mattresses or surfaces.*
**You WILL need help getting on and off this set up the first week or two, as it may be

difficult to do alone.**

To see how I set up cushions for BBL, see the video here.:

Item Name	Item Description	Notes:
Saloniture Jumbo Round Massage Table Bolster Pillow Pad - 26 x 9 Inch	Supportive & durable design: Made from eco-friendly high-density foam that retains its shape and firmness. Stain resistant.	Make sure that this is the size that you order. As other bolsters look similar, but are not "jumbo" and do not have enough fullness or support to be cofortable, and to keep your buttock area off the bed or surface below.
Serta Won't Go Flat King Size - Set of 2 Down Alternative Bed Pillows	Extra Life Foam Core with Medium Support - A unique form core zone helps prevent your pillows from losing their loft and shape over time
Pro Goleem Small Pillow 11’’x 6’’x2.5’’- 1 pack	Mini Travel Pillow - hypoallergenic and soft which is certified by OEKO-TEX standard 100. More safe and healthy. More friendly to the climate [Easy Wash] Machine wash available on gentle cycle, tumble dry low

Facelift & Necklift Recovery:

Item Name	Description	Notes:
Beauty Bar 24k Golden Pulse Facial Massager, T-Shape Electric Face Massage Tool	Requires one AA batteries (not included); The handle can be used "on" or "off", T shape is designed for About 6000 vib. per/min.	Vibration aids with lymphatic flow. This tool can be used on the face to reduce swelling. You can find a home-care sequence in my self-care MLD at home courses.
4 Piece Wedge Pillow for Sleeping	Orthopedic Bed Wedge Pillows for After Surgery, Foam Triangle Sit Up Pillow Wedge for Back, Neck, Shoulder Support, Leg Elevation	This system has four separate pieces as opposed to the basic wedge. - Just another option for sleeping comfort, if this appeals to you more.
Bed Wedge Pillow for Sleeping	8"x 24" x 24" Triangle Pillow Wedge, Cooling Memory Foam Top, Elevated Support Wedge Pillow - Removable Washable Cover

Useful Books on Recovery & Preparation:

Book Title	Author	Notes:
The Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery Post-Op Recovery Journal : Track Your Healing, Celebrate Small Wins, & Trust the Process	Jami Craver-Jenkins, MLD-C, NC LMBT #8604	My 1st Book! -his thoughtfully designed journal allows you to meticulously track critical aspects of your healing process, including swelling, recovery treatments, and the sizing and brand of your compression garments. It also provides a structured way to monitor how lifestyle factors such as food intake, hydration, and sleep quality impact overall recovery.
Eat, Drink, Heal: The Art and Science of Surgical Nutrition	Gregory A. Buford, MD	Written by a board certified Plastic Surgeon, this book lays out all you need to know about vitamins, minerals, and supplements, and how they affect the body and it's healing process.
Southern California Plastic Surgery Cookbook	Kathleen H Lisson, CLT	Also written by Kathleen. This book is ideal for those healing after BBL surgery to help "feed the fat" and help it settle and grow. But it's also useful for anyone trying to optimize their nutrition while healing from surgery.
Plastic Surgery Recovery Handbook	Kathleen Helen Lisson, CLT	Written by a Post-Op Therapist, Certified Lymphedema Therapist, Licensed Massage Therapists, & one of my mentors.
Recovery Culture: Juicy Secrets and Strategies for Liposuction, Tummy Tuck, and Brazilian Butt Lift Recovery	Christine M. Acosta, CMT	Written by a Post-Op Therapist and Licensed Massage Therapist.
Healthy Healing After Surgery: A better and faster recovery	Heather Flexor, DPT, CWS	Written by a Physical Therapist & Certified Wound Care Specialist. Heather also offers online consultations if you have issues with healing & she is always informed about the latest research on wound care.