Recovering From Plastic Surgery – Tips for a Smooth Healing Process
Your plastic surgeon will give you specific instructions for recovery. Following these guidelines will help you avoid complications and speed up healing.
Begin preparing for your recovery well in advance of surgery. Stock your fridge with healthy foods that contain essential vitamins and nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
Get Plenty of Rest
Getting plenty of rest is the most important thing you can do to ensure a smooth recovery. Many patients may have lower-than-normal energy levels while recovering from surgery. This is normal, and it will improve over time.
In addition to getting plenty of rest, it is also recommended that patients take leisurely walks around the house or neighborhood. This promotes healthy circulation and prevents blood clots from forming.
A nutritious diet is also essential to the healing process. Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals, like fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains, can help speed the body’s natural recovery process. Hydration is also vital. Drinking water flushes toxins and aids in the healing process.
Lastly, getting your home and family ready for your recovery is crucial. Asking family and friends to help with chores, taking care of pets, cleaning the house, and running errands can reduce stress and ease the transition back into everyday life after plastic surgery.
Avoid Excessive Activity
Like Dr. Joel Aronowitz, your surgeon will provide you with a comprehensive packet of post-surgery instructions. Despite this detailed information, it is common for questions to arise. Remember that your doctor is a fountain of knowledge and the best answer resource. Only search the Internet for answers to your questions; this can help your recovery.
It is essential to avoid excessive activity during the recovery period. Vigorous exercise elevates blood pressure, which can increase bruising and inflammation. In addition, strenuous activity can re-open sutures or wounds, leading to complications.
It is a good idea to ask for help from a friend or family member with housework, childcare, and pet care if necessary. Also, consider stocking up on groceries and prepping some meals so you don’t have to travel to the store during your recovery. This will save you valuable energy and allow you to enjoy a nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
Stay Hydrated
Optimal hydration is crucial for the body to heal and function properly. Drinking plenty of water can help reduce swelling and pain after surgery, promote blood flow, and help remove toxins from the body.
In addition, consuming a balanced diet of lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables is essential for ensuring you get all the nutrients your body needs during recovery. Talk to your doctor, like Joel Aronowitz MD, about any specific dietary restrictions that may apply after surgery.
It is also essential to follow all discharge instructions after your procedure. Please do so to avoid complications that could lengthen your recovery time. For example, if you had a rhinoplasty (nose job), keeping the area elevated as instructed is essential.
Failure to do so can result in a longer recovery process and negatively impact the results of your nose job. This is because bruising and swelling are common side effects of this popular cosmetic surgery.
Avoid Smoking
You can do many things to ensure a smooth recovery from your surgery. Educate yourself, be patient, and follow your surgeon’s discharge instructions to the letter.
Food is the body’s fuel, so prioritize healthy options and stay hydrated. Hydration flushes toxins and plays a critical role in healing, while eating nutrient-rich foods accelerates recovery by feeding the body’s cells.
Smoking significantly increases the risk of complications from surgery. This is because smoking limits blood flow to the body’s cells, thereby decreasing oxygen. Smokers also have a higher risk of infection. This is because chemicals in cigarette smoke restrict the function of infection-fighting cells known as neutrophils.
When you’re a smoker, it takes longer for these cells to return to normal. This is why it’s crucial to stop smoking before your surgery. This also helps your body heal faster after surgery. Smoking also decreases the effectiveness of certain medications. This includes blood thinners.
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