Two Things You Can Do To Speed Your Plastic Surgery Recovery
You looked forward to your life-changing cosmetic surgery forever, so why are you in so much agony? Although the movies show people bouncing back from surgery in a few days, it might take some time to feel like your normal self. However, you might be able to speed up your recovery by doing these two things:
1: Take Enough Time Off
If you are like most people, you probably figure that the recovery timelines are a little too generous for the work you are having done. Instead of taking off the recommended 3-4 weeks off of work for that upcoming tummy tuck, you plan a few light meetings a few weeks after your procedure. Unfortunately, your dedication to your job could slow your recovery.
You might not realize how physical your job is until you are in the middle of your workday. When you are helping a client to hang those new drapes or trying to walk through a jobsite, the last thing you want to deal with is doubling over in pain. Taking your medications can also inhibit your ability to work properly. If your mind is a little clouded from extra painkillers, it could alter your decisions, which could impact your work.
Do yourself a favor and take enough time off of work. Talk with your doctor about what you should expect, and don't hop back into things until you have completely recovered.
2: Don't Aggravate Your Injuries
After lounging around the house for a few weeks, you might be itching to do your hair or to hit the gym. Unfortunately, even basic daily rituals can aggravate your injuries if you aren't careful. Here are a few things to pay attention to, so that you don't cause collateral damage:
- Cosmetics: If you had a recent facelift, skin treatment, or rhinoplasty, stay away from makeup for a while. You might feel homely, but layering on the foundation and blush could infect your incisions, which could cause unsightly scarring.
- Exercise: You might be training for a marathon, but the weeks immediately following plastic surgery is not a good time to hit the gym. Moving quickly and lifting weights can aggravate healing, or even split open incisions. If you are worried about your weight, focus on healthy eating, or talk with your doctor about ways to keep your muscle tone up to par.
When you are discharged from the hospital, pay special attention to your post-operative care instructions. If you are groggy from anesthesia, ask a friend or family member to come along. They might be able to take notes, so that you know how to take care of yourself later.
Following doctor's orders after your procedure might help you to heal a little quicker, so that you can start showing off your new look. Talk to your local doctor, such as Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center, for more information.