How To Optimize Your Facial Plastic Surgery Results
Cosmetic surgery is an investment in your self confidence. But the results don't stop there. Like any investment, maintenance is key. Taking proper care of yourself, mentally and physically, will help you obtain a successful recovery and great result for years to come. Please do your best to adhere to the guidelines below and feel free to contact our office if you have any questions.
Sleep
Feeling fatigued during your recovery is normal. Sleep is an integral part of healing. If you are tired, do not force yourself to stay awake. On the other hand, do not stay in bed all day during your recovery. During the first week, we often ask that you sleep on your back with your head elevated, which may be difficult for you. It is OK to use a sleeping pill at night during this period if you have trouble falling asleep. It is important to remember that such drugs can make some people feel light headed and weak. You should only take this if needed.
Exercise
Walking is good but please no exercise that involves straining, lifting, sweating, or a rise in your heart rate and/or blood pressure. Avoid activities that include bending over or bringing your head below your heart. Avoid any head or facial movements that cause any pulling or painful sensation at surgical sites. Sneeze with your mouth open. This will decrease swelling and allow better incision healing. Most procedures require you to avoid exercise for a period usually ranging from 2 weeks to 1 month. This will also depend on how you are healing. Please ask us before resuming physical activity.
Nutrition
Eat a balanced and nutritious, soft diet with low salt, spice, or sugar. Avoid gum and foods that are hard to chew. Easily chewed foods such as soup, mashed potatoes, stewed chicken, and hamburger are allowed. For the first week post-surgery, stay away from steaks, French bread and other hard-to-eat food. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol intake and do not smoke. Do not dramatically raise or lower caffeine intake from levels typical for you. Taking a multivitamin is fine but avoid herbals or supplements (please discuss them with us if you plan to take them during your recovery period).
Exposure
Stay out of the sun and away from pollutants. There should be no second-hand smoke exposure. Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic cleansers, moisturizers, and sunblocks. Do not use any products on your incision sites that we have not recommended or approved (including makeup).
Socializing
Avoid work and social obligations for now. Only associate with close family or friends who will be supportive and positive. We cannot emphasize enough how positive outlook correlates to excellent healing. Achieve a balance between minimizing social contacts and not becoming a hermit.
Medications
Obtain your medications and supplies in advance per our recommendations. Adhere to the instructions we have given you in the medication/supply lists in your post-procedure folder. It is vital for you to complete all your antibiotics.
