Dr. Jüri Kullamaa, a plastic surgeon at Kotka Private Hospital’s Plastic Surgery Center, gives advice on how to recover from plastic surgery procedures and what should definitely be avoided during healing.
After any type of facial cosmetic surgery, be it wrinkle smoothing, a nose operation, or eyelid surgery, it is important to apply cold to the operated area. Even if the wound has bandages on, it should be soothed with an ice pack from time to time. The procedure should be repeated according to the doctor’s recommendations.
Plan your recovery. Depending on the surgery, recovery time can range from a few days to two or three weeks. Keep this in mind, as recovery may affect your work and other plans.
Have realistic expectations about the results.
Unfortunately, it must be said that immediately after the operation, the appearance may be somewhat startling, and only then does the healing process begin. All cosmetic surgeries cause wounds and swelling. Real results are generally not visible until a few weeks have passed; give your body time to heal. If you feel that something may be wrong with the wound healing, talk to your doctor immediately.
- Follow your surgeon’s recommendations. Whether it’s taking prescription medications, doing exercises, or hygiene recommendations – your surgeon will give the best advice.
- Arrange for someone to take care of you for the first 48 or 72 hours. Even if you sincerely believe you can continue with your usual routine, the healing process will proceed much more easily and with less effort if you have someone to help you.
- Drink water. Any surgery dehydrates the body, and drinking water helps you restore lost fluids.
- If you have had surgery on the head or neck area, such as a forehead or neck lift, it is important to keep the operated area in a more upright position. Also, you should not sleep with your face in the pillow. This way, swelling will decrease faster, and the healing process will also be quicker. In the case of breast surgery, you must not sleep on your stomach.
- Avoid direct sunlight.
- Do not take aspirin or other blood thinners. Other painkillers are generally allowed, but definitely consult your doctor and find out which over-the-counter and prescription medications you may take.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects. During recovery, lifting heavy objects is strictly forbidden. Even if you feel good, listen to your doctor and follow their advice.
