Plastic surgery is a serious procedure requiring plenty of time to heal and recover. Depending on the type of plastic surgery, recovery can take three days to several weeks.
During the first few days after your surgery, following your plastic surgeon’s instructions is important. This will help speed up your recovery and ensure the best possible results.
Discomfort
Whether you are having a breast augmentation, facelift, or any other procedure, the goal of a plastic surgeon like the Bellevue plastic surgeon is to minimize any pain accompanying surgery. Mostly, pain after surgery is manageable and will fade over time as your body heals.
However, every patient is different. Your pain tolerance, surgery type, and other factors can influence how much discomfort you experience post-surgery.
Your doctor can prescribe pain medications that can help ease any discomfort you feel following your procedure. Typically, these medications will be prescribed within the first few days after your procedure.
Follow your surgeon’s directions for taking these medications, and don’t exceed the recommended dosage. Additionally, try to get plenty of fluids during your recovery. Staying hydrated will also make the other pain medications you take more effective. Drinking a lot of water during your recovery can also help offset constipation you may experience from some pain medications.
Pain
Pain is an unfortunate part of any surgical procedure, but the good news is that plastic surgery is less painful than ever. This is thanks to advancements in techniques and innovations within the surgical field.
The amount of pain you experience after surgery will depend on many factors, including the type of procedure and your unique pain tolerance. However, you can help reduce the severity and duration of post-surgical discomfort by following your surgeon’s recovery instructions and working closely with them to manage your pain.
After surgery, you will likely receive prescription pain medications. These can be very beneficial, but always follow your surgeon’s recommendations on how and when to take them. Never exceed the recommended dosage; communicate with your doctor if significant pain persists or worsens.
Swelling
Swelling is a natural part of the healing process after any surgical procedure. The body interprets the incision or cuts made during aesthetic surgery as an injury and starts the recovery process accordingly.
Swelling results from the fluids that carry white blood cells, enzymes, and growth factors to the surgical site. The body also releases chemicals that cause inflammation.
This inflammatory phase is important in healing the wound and reducing infection. It allows the body to send repair cells to the area.
Swelling peaks in the first days after plastic surgery and usually subsides within a few weeks. Swelling can be reduced by following the specific recovery guidelines of your plastic surgeon.
Post-Operative Care
Post-operative care is a necessary step in the recovery process. This care focuses on the healing of wounds, pain management, and preventing complications.
The type of post-operative care a patient will receive depends on the surgical procedure and their health history. It also involves the use of medications to control pain and inflammation.
Patients must follow all medical advice, including any restrictions on their daily activities. This can include avoiding weight lifting or running.
If you have a loved one recovering from surgery, hiring a home healthcare provider to assist them with their everyday duties can be beneficial. This can reduce their stress and allow them to focus on healing.
A long process, post-operative care requires considerable medical awareness and readiness to act when complications or side effects occur. This can be stressful for the patient and their family.
