Whether you’ve just undergone breast lift surgery or a full facelift, you need to remember that recovery is key.
But how long can recovery take and what can you expect once you’ve left the operating room?
Because we’re all busy with our lives, recovering as soon as possible is always on patients’ minds. Being stuck in bed isn’t fun, but it may be necessary during recovery no matter how long it takes.
Fortunately, you can speed up the recovery process with a few tips:
1. Follow Instructions
Be mindful of following your board-certified plastic surgeon’s instructions for post-op care to avoid complications and ensure you get the best results.
2. Choose a Qualified Surgeon
How long you were under anesthesia will determine how long it might take for you to feel normal again after surgery. Make sure you choose a qualified surgeon who will be administering the anesthesia properly.
Anesthesia is very safe when performed or supervised by an experienced, board-certified anesthesiologist.
3. Ask Questions and Get Answers Before the Surgery
When searching for a board-certified surgeon to perform your procedure, ask how long your surgery will take and who will be in the operating room helping with the surgery. Ask for referrals from other patients who had similar surgeries and about their recovery time.
4. Get Moving… Carefully
Even though you might want to get up and about right away, don’t rush it. Doing simple movements can keep you from getting stiff and prevent potentially dangerous complications like blood clots.
Start slowly by taking short walks and/or do light stretching throughout the day. Both of these activities help circulation and keep important body systems moving.
Don’t go running around the block, just do easy movements. Also, it’s not wise to get sweaty and overexert yourself as a rising heart rate and blood pressure can slow healing.
When stretching, go easy so you don’t put pressure on incision sites that could stretch or open. Always have someone with you during the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery to help you stand up and sit down.
5. Share Your Medical History
Make sure your surgeon and the staff know about your medical history, past surgeries, and complications during your first consult. Be forthright and tell your doctor everything in case something unexpected occurs during surgery. Not doing so could prolong your time under anesthesia or require more extensive surgery. Disclose all medication or drugs in your system, as well as current medications and all supplements you are taking.
Following any or all these tips will speed up your recovery and get you back to normal sooner rather than later.