Undergoing cosmetic surgery is an exciting process for most patients. For patients, cosmetic surgery results in improved self-esteem and appearance. Most patients want to accelerate their cosmetic surgery recovery process so they can return to their normal daily activities sooner and enjoy the benefits of their results.
Surgery recovery times vary depending on health issues and the type of procedure performed. The best way to decrease your recovery time is by carefully following your surgical team’s post-operative instructions. At Sacramento Surgical Arts, we will adjust the surgery recovery process to your individual needs depending on your overall health, the type of procedure you are recovering from, and your response to the surgery. Here are five ways that you can speed up your recovery process and ensure that everything goes smoothly in recovery.
Please Don’t Smoke
Smokers should quit at least eight weeks before undergoing a type of cosmetic surgery procedure. After your surgery, avoiding cigarettes will help improve your circulation, speeding recovery times. If you have been looking for a reason to quit smoking, here it is.
Apply Ice and Drink Fluids
Apply icepacks or compression garments if instructed to do so. If you undergo any facial surgery, including a facelift, eyelid lift, or rhinoplasty, it’s important to apply ice to reduce swelling and inflammation. You may need to move bandages to apply ice. Some surgical procedures, including tummy tucks and liposuction, may require you to wear a compression garment for a few weeks post-surgery. Doctors recommend these garments for a reason. They can help the body control bruising and inflammation. They can help with body contouring and preventing wrinkling of the skin. The pressure from the compression garments may also soften and flatten scaring. Drinking water will help alleviate the side-effects of pain medication and will help you stay hydrated in recovery.
Don’t Tough It Out
Before your surgery, ask a family member or close friend to take care of you for at least the first three days after surgery. Pain, inflammation, bruising, and swelling are all part of the body’s natural recovery process, but it can help to have some support. Be sure to avoid over-the-counter pain medications and herbal remedies. These can interfere with prescription medications and cause problems.
Move Around Gently
You will need to rest for around two days after your surgery. In addition to resting, it is vital that you move your body. This may sound counterintuitive, but moving improves circulation, which speeds the healing process. Try to walk around as much as your oral and cosmetic surgeon recommends. Even a few minutes of walking or gentle stretching can help your recovery time. You may want to set a timer to remind yourself to move around.
Skip the Gym
Do not engage in any strenuous exercise following cosmetic surgery. Many cosmetic surgery patients are anxious to return to their normal workout routines, but it is vital to avoid strenuous exercise several weeks after surgery. Working out raises blood pressure, which can cause bruising, bleeding, and inflammation. Patients who engage in vigorous workouts too soon after surgery can experience serious complications and re-opening of incisions. Consult with your Sacramento plastic surgeon before resuming your pre-surgery levels of activity.
The Best Plastic Surgery in Sacramento, CA
Plastic surgery recovery has both physical and emotional components. As your Sacramento plastic surgeon will tell you, it is important not to rush the recovery process, as allowing your body to heal properly will lead to more rewarding results. Call Sacramento Surgical Arts today to schedule a cosmetic surgery consultation at 866.930.5837 so you can start looking and feeling how you have always wanted.
