Serving Northern Michigan
The recovery process after any cosmetic surgery is almost as important as the surgical procedure itself. The recovery process is often painful and uncomfortable. However, this doesn't always have to be the case. Below are tips that will ease the recovery process.
Talk to Your Doctor and Do Your Research
Before you undergo your cosmetic procedure, talk to your doctor and ask them what you should expect. Make sure to ask all questions. Do not just ask what to expect during the procedure and potential risks, but also what to expect during your recovery phase.
Also, carry out your research. Join communities and talk to people who have done the same procedure before. They will not only give you answers to your questions, but they can also provide emotional and moral support during the healing journey. The internet is also a great place to get the information you may need during your recovery process.
Follow Your Doctor's Instructions
You need to follow your doctor's instructions during the healing process — not that of the internet. Your doctor may prescribe a post-op care kit that may include pain medications, supplements, and other medications necessary for your healing. You have to take them as prescribed and instructed for a fast, effective recovery.
The doctor will also schedule follow-up appointments after your cosmetic surgery. These appointments could be to change your dressings. The appointments could also be for drainage and lymphatic massages. Or they could also be to monitor your healing progress and the efficacy of the surgery. You should make every effort to attend these appointments, as they are crucial to your healing.
Take It Easy and Be Comfortable
After your cosmetic procedure, you need to rest as much as possible. Stress is not good for the healing process. People may offer you help in one way or another; take it. And even if they don't offer at first, don't feel ashamed to ask — they are your loved ones. Also, plan for the recovery process by ensuring you have all the necessary provisions for your recovery beforehand.
Ensure you are comfortable. Try and create a serene and stress-free environment as possible for the first few days of your recovery. If you can send away the kids for a while, this may help you relax. Also, ensure that you have appropriate and comfortable clothing during this period. Clothes that aren't too tight and are of breathable material are the best.
Move a Little and Eat Well
You may feel tired and lethargic as you recover, but you should not become a couch potato. You need to ensure your blood circulation is good to avoid blood clots. Walking 10–15 minutes each day is a great way to ensure you have good blood circulation.
Eating a balanced diet and drinking lots of water is also crucial for recovery. Protein and vitamins in your diet are necessary and are great for repairing and rejuvenating body cells. Carbs will give you the energy you need during recovery. Don't forget to drink lots of water, as it helps flush toxins from your body and promotes optimum functioning of your body cells.
Stay Alert and Be Patient
You also need to be very alert in tracking your body changes during the recovery period. If you notice anything alarming such as bad odor, discoloring of the skin, or abnormal pain, always consult your doctor. Always ask rather than assume all is well.
The recovery process is different between patients. Some will recover faster than others. And some will be more comfortable during recovery than others. Some will also see the results of their cosmetic procedures faster than others. You need to be patient and avoid comparing yourself to others. Talk and seek guidance from your doctor instead.
The recovery process may sometimes be dreadful for patients. You do not have to go through it alone. We endeavor to make it easier for you.
Contact us for any queries on cosmetic procedures.
Ronald C. Barry MD, FACS
Petoskey Surgeons, PC
Address: 521 Monroe St, Petoskey, MI 49770
Phone: 231-487-1900
Fax: 231-348-0984
Office Hours
Monday–Friday: 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Care Credit
McLaren
ASR
BLUE CARE NETWORK
BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD
HUMANA
MEDICARE
MEDICARE PLUS BLUE
PRIORITY HEALTH
TRI CARE