Regardless of the procedure from a plastic surgeon, such as rhinoplasty or browplasty, proper recovery helps achieve a patient’s desired results. This involves giving the body time to heal by limiting any physical activity. It might also include scar treatment or taking time off work. Here’s what to expect during a recovery from plastic surgery:
Prepare in Advance
A plastic surgeon should provide information before surgery, such as breast augmentation recovery timelines. The process will help explain the surgery itself and any post-op details. Here are some suggestions to review during recovery from plastic surgery:
Correct Clothing
If a patient had surgery for breast augmentation, it’s ideal to wear a button-down shirt. This helps the patient avoid raising their arms above their head post-op. If patients undergo blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), they should avoid tops that come past the collarbone. This allows the surgeon access to the patient’s face during the procedure.
Groceries in Advance
Some patients may experience a lack of appetite after the surgery, but still might need hydration and electrolytes. Before the surgery, buy groceries in advance, such as popsicles or crackers. Once the appetite suppression fades, arranging food in advance helps patients prepare mentally and physically.
Beverage Caps
Opening bottles before surgery, such as sports drinks or water, can prevent discomfort during recovery. It’s key to avoid creating muscle tension post-op, and removing a new bottle cap may cause unnecessary pain. Untwisting beverage caps before surgery helps to avoid any exertion.
Procedure Recovery Expectations
Recovery will vary depending on the type of surgery, which can include abdominoplasty, rhytidectomy, breast reconstruction, and more. Each procedure will require rest and a temporary hold on daily activities. Recovery timelines will also depend on several factors, including follow-up appointments. At Somerset Plastic Surgery, our team of physicians helps inform patients about procedure recovery expectations:
Facelift (Rhytidectomy)
A rhytidectomy procedure tightens skin and addresses any underlying tissues. Physicians should place incisions in the natural folds of the skin to avoid notice. This includes behind the hairline or ears, so that scars will fade naturally.
Recovery will require rest and avoiding any strenuous activities, such as going to the gym and exercising. Swelling and bruising are expected within the first week and will gradually decrease over time.
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
This procedure removes any excess fat, skin, and muscle from the upper or lower eyelids. It also improves a patient’s field of vision and appearance. While the surgery is located on the lids, it’s still key to avoid any activities, depending on the physician’s instructions. Swelling may remain for weeks or months during the recovery process.
Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation allows small or unevenly sized breasts to have a fuller, firmer appearance. There are various procedures for breasts, including reduction, lifts, and reconstruction. If patients opt for implants, they have the option to choose silicone shells with saline water. The shell can be placed behind the breast tissue or the chest wall muscle. During recovery, patients may wear a supportive bra for several weeks. There should be no heavy lifting or daily activities unless recommended by a physician.
Nose Reshaping (Rhinoplasty)
Rhinoplasty reshapes or reduces a patient’s nose. This includes removing any deformities, humps, narrow nostril width, or changing the angle to the mouth. A rhinoplasty alters the nose to become functional if a patient struggles with a previous injury or birth defects. Once the surgery is complete, patients can have the splint removed after a week.
Liposuction
Liposuction sculpts and removes fat from the abdomen, waist, thighs, knees, buttocks, and more. Depending on the type of area and the extent of the surgery, this procedure uses various methods, such as the super-wet technique. Our team at Somerset Plastic Surgery also uses tumescent and ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL). Compression garments are ideal to help minimize swelling and support the recovery process. Bruising and swelling may persist, depending on the activity levels.
Tips for Smooth Healing
It’s key to follow any post-op instructions for a successful recovery. Physicians can recommend nutrient-rich foods to help support the body during the healing process. Patients should avoid smoking or using alcohol, as advised by the physician. Make sure to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor the progress and address any concerns immediately.
Plastic Surgeon at Somerset Plastic Surgery
The recovery process may involve several steps, including planning in advance, compression garments, and more. Regardless of the type of surgery performed and the location, rest is key to allow time to heal and avoid discomfort. Our team at Somerset Plastic Surgery can help prepare patients for their post-op recovery times. We’ll make sure to inform patients about expectations and timelines. Contact our office for a consultation and learn more about the procedures and how they can benefit you. We’re open throughout the week, and we’ll answer any questions about recovery and surgery.