Every year, numerous plastic surgery procedures are performed. In most cases, excellent results are achieved with little inconvenience. Still, recovery is an aspect of plastic surgery that cannot be avoided. Many patients ask about their recovery and what they can expect. Primarily, they want to know that they will not be intolerably uncomfortable as they recover. This concern is well-managed with prescription medication. However, post-surgical pain is only one detail of recovery. Besides pain medication, there are other must-haves you need to know. We’ll discuss them here.
Must-Have #1 – Help
If you’ve been looking into a plastic surgery procedure, we trust that you have heard or read that you should have help around the house for at least a few days. Most patients are aware of this. However, that does not mean they understand the extent to which they may be limited. Often, the biggest challenge in the Help department is accepting that it is needed. We live in a society that places importance on “doing it all.” After plastic surgery or any surgical procedure, the “all” that needs to be done is rest. Without proper rest and proper help, there is unnecessary stress. Before your plastic surgery procedure, prepare your mental state for accepting the help available to you. Arrange for that help, which may include having someone administer your pain medications, help you to the bathroom, cook, clean, or care for the other living beings in your home. Trust us, you will be thankful for the help that will allow you to focus on your best recovery.
Must-Have #2 – Helpful Remedies
We mentioned that prescription pain medication assists patients with post-surgical comfort. The catch is that pain medication can have side effects. One that you want to prepare for is constipation, which can be unnecessarily uncomfortable. To avoid this, you might take a fiber supplement every day you’re on your medication. Just make sure you also drink at least 64 ounces of water. Another option is to take magnesium citrate daily. Each of these remedies has been used for years to manage constipation.
There are several ways to prepare for optimal surgical recovery. We’re happy to answer your questions about your procedure and what you can expect. Schedule a consultation to discuss your desired cosmetic improvements at 805.969.9004.
