While many of us focus on the results we are hoping for after plastic surgery, not all of us prepare well for the recovery process. Like any surgery, plastic surgery procedures require some downtime afterward to allow your body to rest and heal and for swelling to subside. Your preparedness for this process will go far in ensuring the best possible results from your procedure. Read on to learn about the steps you can take during plastic surgery recovery to create the greatest chance for success.
Follow Instructions
Your plastic surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions for you to follow. These might include refraining from alcohol and caffeine, applying ice to the surgical site, and using a compression garment, to reduce swelling and discomfort. We may also recommend sleeping in positions that will not put pressure on the healing incision site. You will also receive directions on caring for any drainage tubes, and taking medicine as needed for pain management. Follow your doctor’s instructions to the letter to ensure a smooth recovery process and the best possible results.
It is also important to maintain a balanced diet and drink plenty of water during recovery to give your body the nutrients it needs to heal. Water supports a healthy immune system, flushes out toxins, and helps deliver nutrients through the bloodstream. For the first week or two, we recommend that patients avoid processed foods and alcohol consumption, as this will impact your body’s ability to heal correctly and swiftly.
Allow Ample Time
No matter what type of surgery you have, your body will need time to recover afterward. Make sure you take ample time off work and other activities to give your body the rest it will need. Spend that time taking it easy at home, reading, watching movies or getting some extra shut-eye. Most procedures require that you have someone at home with you for the first day or two, to get your meals, medication and ice packs so you can simply rest up after your surgery.
Plan Ahead
Make the recovery process as easy as possible by planning ahead. Stock up on groceries and fill prescriptions for medication before you go into your procedure. Make sure you have plenty of ice packs and other items to make your healing process a bit faster and more comfortable. Arrange for any transportation you may need to and from your physician’s office on the day of surgery and the first few days after, when you are likely to be taking pain medication.
Avoid the Sun
UV rays hinder the healing process after surgery, and may even impact how your residual scarring will look. Avoid the sun completely if you can for the first few days after your procedure. If you do need to venture out, make sure you cover your incisions or wear a hat. When your incisions are healed use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher without fail.
Dealing with Depression
Depression is a very normal occurrence after cosmetic surgery. You likely went in with high hopes about your results and now you have to wait for bruising, swelling and discomfort to improve before you can actually see those results. Remember that depression is a very normal part of the recovery process and is likely to subside once you begin to look and feel better.
Schedule a Consultation
Plastic surgery is process that takes time to prepare for and recover from. With these tips, you can rest assured your recovery will be as smooth and successful as possible. If you have any questions during your recovery, contact plastic surgeon, Dr. Kahlil Andrews of Cedar Rapids, of Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery at 319-318-6625.
