You go into plastic surgery with high hopes about the outcome of your procedure, but before those results become evident, you need to make it through the recovery process. Whether you undergo a facelift, a tummy tuck, eyelid surgery, or a combination of procedures, the time and space you give yourself to heal will have a great impact on how satisfied you are with your results. Dr. Andrews Plastic, Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery has a few tips for an ideal recovery routine that will give you the greatest chance for success.
Plan Ahead for Recovery Time
Prepare for your recovery time before undergoing the procedure. The weeks leading up to your surgery provide an opportunity to clean your house and stock up on a few meals for your freezer. Make sure to have plenty of healthy liquids for hydration after surgery, and allow yourself a few enjoyable, quiet activities that will make your time at home more pleasant. Also, fill your prescriptions before your surgery so they are ready and waiting for you when you return home.
Enlist Help for the First Week or Two
While you will likely be able to return home the same day as your surgery, you will most likely not be up to caring for yourself for those first few days. It is important to have someone with you full-time for the first 24-48 hours to ensure you don’t experience any complications after your procedure.
Having someone to bring you food and drinks or to provide for other basic needs after that time is also a good idea. If you have small children or pets at home, you will want to arrange for someone to care for them for a few days until you feel like getting back into the swing of things.
Understand and Follow All Instructions During Plastic Surgery Recovery
You will be given a list of instructions to follow before and after your procedure. It is imperative that you understand all of your doctor’s instructions and follow them as closely as possible. These instructions have been provided to ensure your procedure is as safe and successful as possible. From stopping certain medications before surgery to wearing compression garments after your procedure, all of these instructions are essential for a full and healthy recovery.
Keep Appointments, Ask Questions
You will have a number of appointments with your surgeon after your surgery so that your recovery process can be closely monitored. Each of these appointments is scheduled to ensure your body heals properly and to address concerns that may arise. Keep your follow-up appointments and reschedule if something unexpected occurs that prevents you from attending. If any questions arise about your recovery, don’t hesitate to call your physician’s office to get answers.
Practice Patience, Get Plenty of Rest
Recovery from plastic surgery can be a challenge for some patients. While you expect to look better after your procedure, you will probably look worse first as a result of bruising and swelling. You will also likely have some discomfort and muscle soreness after surgery, which can be discouraging for the first few days. Patience and rest are the best way to make it through those early days and weeks of recovery, knowing things will continue to improve until you are able to enjoy your final results.
Schedule a Consultation
Many plastic surgery procedures may be by choice, but they are still surgical procedures that require proper recovery time to heal fully. By forming a recovery plan before your surgery, your downtime is more likely to be successful and as pleasant as possible. To learn more about preparing for reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, as well as the recovery time that follows, please contact Dr. Andrews Plastic, Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery at 855-338-0261.
Plastic Surgery Recovery FAQs
How long is the typical recovery period after plastic surgery?
The recovery period varies depending on the type of plastic surgery procedures performed. Minor treatments may only require a few days of downtime, while more extensive cosmetic surgeries, such as tummy tucks or facelifts, can require several weeks of healing. Your plastic surgeon will provide a personalized timeline based on your procedure and overall health.
What can I do to support a smooth healing process after surgery?
Supporting your healing process involves following post-op instructions carefully, getting plenty of rest, avoiding strenuous activity, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy diet of nutrient-rich foods. Wearing compression garments (if prescribed) and attending all follow-up appointments also help optimize your plastic surgery recovery.
Will I be in pain after cosmetic surgery, and how is it managed?
Some discomfort is expected after most plastic surgery procedures, especially in the first few days. Pain management typically includes prescribed pain medication and cold compresses. Your surgeon may also recommend anti-inflammatory medications and tips for easing soreness without delaying the healing process. If you have any questions or concerns about pain medications, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Are there signs I should watch for during recovery that may indicate a problem?
Yes, while mild swelling and bruising are normal, symptoms such as excessive redness, increasing pain, fever, or unusual drainage may be signs of a complication. Contact your plastic surgeon right away if you notice anything concerning during your plastic surgery recovery.
Can I return to work and exercise soon after plastic surgery?
This depends on the nature of your cosmetic surgery and the demands of your daily routine. Many patients return to desk jobs within 1–2 weeks; however, physical activities such as heavy lifting or intense workouts should be postponed until your plastic surgeon clears you, typically several weeks into the recovery period.
