Lipedema Reduction Surgery Essentials

Disclaimer: I only recommend products I use myself. This post contains affiliate links, meaning I get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links — at no cost to you.

Before my first surgery, I scoured FB groups and IG posts to see what other patients had on their surgery essentials lists. Per usual, I overpacked and ended up not needing a lot of the items I purchased. So, I’m sharing the products that came in clutch during post-op recovery.

1. Preparing Your Body for Surgery I absolutely LOVE this book. As someone who has had many unpleasant surgeries with poor outcomes, I was committed to having a better experience this time. This book was instrumental in getting me mentally and emotionally prepared for a successful surgery.
2. Finger Pulse Oximeter Any time I receive anesthesia, I like to monitor my oxygen levels. Anesthesia can cause temporary respiratory depression that may cause you to breathe more slowly or shallowly. An oximeter helps you monitor your oxygen levels and pulse rate during your recovery. I would check mine 2x a day – first thing in the morning and right before bed.
3. Blood Pressure Monitor In addition to blood oxygen, I monitored my blood pressure to make sure it wasn’t dropping too low.
4. Digital Thermometer As with any operation with incisions, there’s a risk of infection. So, monitoring my temperature was critical.
5. Waterproof Beach Blanket/Liner Since I stayed at an Airbnb, I didn’t want to risk leaking fluid on any of the beds or furniture. This waterproof blanket was perfect for protecting furniture from post-op drainage.
6. Sheet Set I was worried about ruining sheets at the Airbnb, so I bought an affordable set in a dark navy color that was perfect for post-op.
7. Puppy Pads These puppy pads are another great option for protecting furniture and Uber backseats from post-op drainage.
8. Inflatable Wedge Pillow This was the BEST post-op recovery purchase. It was a relief to be able to prop my legs up, and this inflatable wedge was perfect.
9. CzSalus Flat Knit K2 Compression Leggings Compression is so polarizing. Wearing them before and after surgery is crucial. A made-to-measure pair is ideal, but this is a pretty solid alternative. I love that they come in a short length as well.
10. Scrubz Disposable Rinse-Free Bathing Wipes I am a 2x a day shower taker, so the no showers during post-op recovery was HARD. These bathing wipes were a dream. They lather up but don’t leave a soapy film behind on the skin. I also loved using these to wipe down my leggings. In those early days, you are leaking some fluid, and the compression leggings can get gross. Wiping them down with these wipes keeps you feeling human.
11. XL Water Wipes These XL wipes came in very handy for wiping down while out and about. They are gentle enough to use on your face, but I used them all over.
12. Peri Bottle Given the lack of proper showering, this portable bidet came in clutch. Add some warm water and you are set!
13. Premier Protein Shake, PB Chocolate Upping your protein before and after surgery is critical for muscle recovery. I looked for protein powder without a ton of sugar and with at least 25g of protein. This PB flavor is a favorite…especially when it’s ice cold.
14. Isopure Dutch Chocolate This is one of my favorite powders because it dissolves easily. A scoop and a half of this mixed with some coconut almond milk is as delicious as a protein shake can be 🙂
15. Isopure Protein Powder, Tropical Punch This protein powder was a refreshing change from the usual chocolate/vanilla flavors. Sometimes my stomach needed a break from the dairy, and this was a good way to keep prioritizing protein.
16. Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein I’ll be honest…I’m not a huge fan of pea protein. However, I wanted to make sure I was getting enough iron, and this is a great source.
17. People’s Choice Beef Jerky Oddly enough, beef jerky is one of the few things I can eat even if I am feeling queasy. I love this brand and this particular cut because it’s super thin and not as salty as a lot of jerkies can be.
18. Silicone Scar Tape I was diligent with applying scar tape as soon as I was cleared to use it. I love this tape because you can cut the size you need from the roll. The silicone material is gentle on the skin and can be easily applied and removed.
19. LifePro Vibration Plate I used this consistently before surgery, and I really felt a difference in how my legs felt. In addition to a reduction in swelling, my legs felt softer and more pliable. I tried to use it for 20-30 minutes a day depending on how I felt.

Hope this helps! I will continue to add to this list as I will need additional products when I have surgery on my anterior legs, arms, and stomach.