A successful recovery from plastic surgery mainly depends on following your surgeon’s post-surgical instructions. Rushing this process can negatively impact your health, incision line healing/scars, and long-term results. Be sure to inform your surgeon of any medications or supplements you take, as some can interfere with the surgical recovery process.
Preparation
During the pre-surgery phase, you will receive detailed instructions from your plastic surgeon about what to expect after plastic surgery Bellevue. It is essential to read these carefully, especially the information on surgery risks and recovery symptoms, to know what to look for. This will help you recognize when something is expected and when it might be a sign that you must contact your surgeon or nurse coordinator. It is also helpful to plan for the post-surgical period by organizing help with household chores, pet care, and mail collection if needed. Ensure you have someone to stay with you for the time your cosmetic surgeon recommends. Also, stop smoking and drinking alcohol (which can lead to easy bruising) before and after surgery. These can slow the healing process.
Recovery
The recovery phase of plastic surgery is often the most challenging part. Depending on the procedure, this can include pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Finding a way to manage these limitations and avoid over-exerting yourself is essential. This means finding friends and family who can help with household chores, cooking, and driving you to and from follow-up appointments. A healthy diet is also essential to a smooth recovery. This includes drinking plenty of water, which helps to flush out toxins and promotes healthy blood flow during this time. Swelling can be uncomfortable and limits movement, but it is essential to remember that this will pass, and your results will improve with time. It is also essential to be patient and to adhere to your surgeon’s instructions, as this will help you have a faster, safer recovery. If you experience unexpected problems or are not coping well, speak to your surgeon immediately.
Post-Operative Care
After surgery, your surgeon will provide you with specific post-operative instructions. These will include details about medication, eating and drinking, and activities you should avoid or limit. Your surgeon may also recommend certain supplements to enhance your healing and recovery. It is essential to get enough rest during this time. You should take time off work and have family members help with household tasks. This will allow you to fully recover and ensure your body can focus all its energy on healing. It is usual for your body to experience some degree of pain directly after plastic surgery. To reduce this, it is recommended that you eat a healthy diet rich in lean proteins and fresh fruits and vegetables. It would be best if you stay hydrated.
Follow-Up
Following your surgeon’s directions will help you manage pain, bruising, swelling, and other surgery-related symptoms. Patients who do not follow instructions are more likely to have complications after their procedures.
It is essential to avoid over-exertion during recovery. Vigorous exercise elevates blood pressure and can increase bruising, swelling, and bleeding from incision wounds. It is also essential to eat a healthy diet, which may include limiting salt intake and avoiding foods that cause constipation. The regenerative phase occurs between weeks 3 and 4. This is when new tissue grows over the surgical site, blending in with existing tissue. After this, scars become less noticeable and softer. At this time, your doctor may remove your sutures. It is not uncommon to still have a slight swelling at this time.
