Every cosmetic surgery patient comes into the process with different goals for their desired outcome. However, one thing everyone has in common is the desire for a smooth recovery with as little discomfort and downtime as possible.
Whether you’ve opted to get a breast augmentation or facelift, choosing a skilled, board-certified cosmetic surgeon like Atlanta-based Dr. Amy Alderman is an essential part of the process, which supports a swift recovery and great results. After you go home from our North Atlanta clinic, the everyday recovery process is up to you. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to help your body heal so you can enjoy your results.
1. Enlist someone you trust to take care of you
You need to recruit someone from among your family and friends to drive you home after the surgery, as well as serving as your caretaker around the house for the first few days of your recovery. Initially, you’ll be groggy from the anesthesia, so you’ll want someone who can take time off work to help you follow Dr. Alderman’s post-operative instructions. Depending on what procedure(s) you have had, you may have activity restrictions that include not lifting anything. It’s important to keep this in mind, especially if you are a mom of young children or toddlers who are still small enough to be carried.
Asking for someone’s assistance with tasks you would ordinarily handle yourself – such as carrying groceries, reaching for items on a high shelf, or making meals – can be tough. But don’t try to do too much too soon. Your incision sites will need time to heal internally and externally and straining them too soon can cause problems, such as bleeding or increased scarring.
2. Prepare ahead of time
Begin preparing around your home for your post-surgical downtime. A week or so before your surgery, take the opportunity to do laundry, clean the house, and prep some meals. Designate a quiet space in your home where you can rest when you need to, with minimal interruptions. Make sure you have plenty of soft blankets, comfortable pillows, and any entertainment you might need as you rest, such as books or movies.
3. Avoid smoking, vaping or marijuana
Nicotine and marijuana use has a negative impact on surgery results. That’s because both nicotine and marijuana slow the healing process while increasing the risk of complications. If you’re a smoker, you must quit at least two weeks before surgery, and avoid all nicotine, tobacco and marijuana products for at least two weeks after. Even one cigarette can impede healing.
4. Take it easy
Taking on too much too soon is one of the most common mistakes people make in their cosmetic surgery recovery. It’s normal to get fidgety and restless after a while at home, and you may feel a temptation to resume regular activities earlier than Dr. Alderman said you should. Keep in mind that even after you feel “normal” again, your body will still need several weeks of healing time. In fact, feeling good is a sign your recovery is going smoothly, and that you are giving your body the rest it needs. You’ll probably be able to pick back up with your daily activities a few weeks after most procedures, and the relatively brief required time away from your workout routine should not impact your long-term fitness.
5. Move slowly
You may assume cosmetic surgery will leave you completely confined to your bed for a week or more. However, gentle movement can help in your recovery process by promoting healthy circulation and easing discomfort. Try taking gentle daily walks around your home, for example, and later your neighborhood when you feel better.
Meet with Dr. Alderman
Following the tips above allows you to plan for a successful recovery and bounce back from your surgery better than ever before. However, remember that this blog is not a substitute for in-person advice from an excellent surgeon. Contact North Atlanta Plastic Surgery today to book a private consultation with Dr. Alderman.