The Best Tips for Recovering From Cosmetic Surgery

Updated on September 29, 2019

Today, many cosmetic surgery procedures are not as invasive as they were in the past. However, this is still surgery, and even simple procedures such as facelifts require healing and recovery periods. Naturally, patients look forward to accelerating the recovery process so they can realize the changes fast and return to their day-to-day habits and activities.

It’s important to note that each procedure and patient is different, and several variables affect the amount of recovery time a patient can expect after undergoing the surgical procedure. Fortunately, you can positively affect the recovery process by following the recommendations of the surgical team.

Some establishments create recovery processes based on individual requirements, overall health, type of cosmetic surgery done, and reaction to surgery. Below are the top post-op tips after cosmetic procedures every patient should follow for a speedy recovery.

Don’t Skip Meds

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As part of the natural post-surgery recovery process, expect some swelling, pain, and bruising. Some patients may choose to go through the process by ignoring the pain, but it is critical that you take painkillers prescribed. Allowing the pain to catch up with you is a huge mistake, which not only makes you uncomfortable while healing but also lengthens the recovery time.

At the same time, don’t take over-the-counter pain herbal remedies or medications since they may thin your blood, interfering with the healing process. Before taking prescribed medication, it’s critical you are aware of their side effects, some of which include constipation. For this reason, make sure you consume lots of fluids and move frequently.

Stay Active

For the first two days after the procedure, make sure you get lots of rest. However, this does not mean that you should stay in bed all day. Little movement helps the body to heal while reducing your discomfort levels.

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While you are not required to go on a 5-mile walk, make sure you get up frequently to get your blood flowing. Consider taking a few minutes to walk around your home or doing stretching exercises. In fact, use a timer as a reminder for getting up and moving around at least once an hour.

Skip Gym Sessions

This tip sounds counterintuitive at first glance, especially when you consider that those above are talking about the benefits of movement. According to cosmetic surgery practitioners strenuous activities such as weightlifting and running can impede your recovery. While everyone wants to get back to their usual workout routine, it’s critical you avoid challenging exercises for a couple of weeks.

If you workout, you increase blood pressure, which increases inflammation, bruising, and bleeding. Vigorous workout sessions immediately after surgery increase the risk of developing complications like incisions re-opening. Make sure you consult with your cosmetic surgeon even if you feel ready for the gym.

Avoid Smoking

Generally, you ought to avoid smoking for eight weeks before you undergo cosmetic surgery. Upon completion of the surgery, also avoid picking up the pack. Smoking impedes circulation, which delays your healing process significantly.

Use Compression Garments or Ice Packs

Facial surgery procedures like nose jobs, facelifts, and eyelid lifts require the use of ice to help in the reduction of swelling. Even with bandages covering surgery area, an ice pack applied periodically can be a helpful healing aid. Other procedures like a breast lift, liposuction, tummy tuck, and breast augmentation might require wearing a compression garment for a couple of weeks.

Conclusion

As you read the tips above, keep in mind that recovery is different for different people, type and the number of procedures one may have undergone. Make sure you follow all the instructions given by the medical team to ensure that you reduce recovery time.

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