Once upon a time cosmetic surgery could be considered a big procedure, but these days it’s not as invasive as it used to be. In the past, recovery times for procedures such as labiaplasty or liposuction would take a very long time. The fact here is that with any surgery there will always be a recovery time, but nowadays for simple procedures like tummy-tucks and facelifts you will require less recovery and healing time.

Abide by your doctor’s recommendations

Any potential side effects typically occur straight after having the procedure. To experience the best recovery it is very important that you follow all of the doctor’s instructions for post-operative care. Before any cosmetic procedure you should receive a comprehensive pack of tips and advice from your doctor, and you should follow their advice to eliminate the potential risks and ensure a healthy recovery. Don’t hesitate to talk to your plastic surgeon about concerns or queries when it comes to your recovery process.

Organise your support system

One thing you may not have considered is organising yourself a support person. You will need someone who can take you to and from procedures, and also assistance once you have the surgery and any follow up appointments as you typically cannot drive for a certain amount of time. You are most likely going to be out of action for a few weeks after the surgery. Our advice is that you let your friends and family know that you have surgery coming up and make sure your support system is organised and ready. It can help to have someone to cook, clean, and generally help you around the house. If you don’t have someone to do this for you, then there is always the option to hire someone to help over this time.

Relax and recover properly

When you are recovering from plastic surgery, you need to relax and limit your activity. The body needs adequate time to heal. If you go ahead and rush into things too soon, you run the risk of injury which will make the recovery complicated and longer. Try to keep yourself occupied with a hobby like reading, scrapbooking or even skyping friends and family to keep connected with them and your spirits up. Also don’t forget to arrange to take time off work. Depending on the type of surgery, you are most likely going to need a few weeks off work after the surgery. You will need to plan the surgery around your holiday and sick leave.

Avoid exercise and limit overexertion 

Until you are cleared by your doctor, you should avoid doing too much activity or carrying out intense exercise. Post-plastic surgery recovery requires healing time from stitches and incisions. Excessive exercise can cause damage to the wounds that are healing. Ask your doctor for specific advice for recovery from your specific surgery, for example if you have breast augmentation surgery then it’s important to avoid any upper body work-outs for a while.

Maintain a healthy diet

Due to limited activity, you may not be able to get to the store and shop for groceries, so try and do some food prep ahead of time. Remember, a healthy, high-calorie diet encourages your recovery. Try to have family and friends prepare ready-to-eat meals, so that you can eat healthy without having the hassle of cooking for yourself, and without relying on takeaway services. It’s also important to drink plenty of water. Sufficient hydration is vital for post-plastic surgery aftercare. Drinking water helps to replenish the fluids you lost during surgery.

Avoid too much sun exposure

It’s also important that you reduce your contact with the sun. You will want to prevent sun damage to your skin or delicate scar tissue areas by reducing sun exposure, wearing sunscreen, and wearing suitable clothing to protect your body against UV rays.  Too much sun exposure can also dehydrate you, which certainly isn’t good for your recovery. If you are out in the sun for a long time, make sure you drink plenty of water during, and afterward.

By following these few tips it will ensure you recover well and without complications. In no time at all you will be able to walk around with a new level of confidence and be happy with the results of your new cosmetic surgery!