New Orleans Plastic Surgeon - How To Shorten Your Recovery Time After Cosmetic Surgery

A tight schedule is often the sole factor coming between you and the body you desire. Truthfully, there is a significant recovery period following cosmetic surgery; however, new surgical techniques, technological advances and a few simple tips can significantly shorten your recovery time so you don’t end up losing all of your vacation days. Note also that certain procedures may have you ready to get back to your usual routines more quickly than you might have anticipated.

Recovery time generally varies to a great extent based on the procedure carried out and this may be further extended if complications arise. Nevertheless, with optimal conditions, many cosmetic procedures can have a recovery time of as little as one or two weeks. Factors contributing to a shortened recovery time include newer surgical techniques such as using fewer, smaller incisions, as well as a variety of newer medications. The short-acting anaesthetics that cosmetic surgeons are now using followed by anti-emetics have been proven to shorten the recovery time from anaesthesia, so much so that you can begin to feel quite comfortable as soon as the surgery is over. Medications administered before and after the surgery also assist in limiting swelling, bruising and discomfort. Proper pre-op and post-op planning will improve your chances of a stress-free and smooth recovery. Following these simple tips will allow you more rest and recovery time.

Pre-op Prep

Stock up
Ensure that you have all the toiletries, food and other daily necessities you will require stocked up before going in for cosmetic surgery. Trying to go grocery shopping can be quite intimidating when you are in pain, and you run the great risk off ripping your stitches. Make plans not to leave home for at least one week to allow your body enough time to heal.

Plan Your Transportation
Most patients are unable to undertake the task of driving themselves home following a surgical procedure. Plan to have a relative or friend drive you home before you go into the hospital. It would also be prudent to plan for a backup driver in the event that there are last minute changes.

Fill Prescriptions
Fill all your prescriptions at least a day prior to surgery. Ensure that you have pain medications on hand for when you get home. Limiting potential stresses from early will improve your body’s ability to handle recovery.

Post-op Prep

Medication
Your plastic surgeon will prescribe some medication to assist with the pain, swelling and bruising as well as the effects of anaesthesia. You can hasten the process of healing by use of topical creams and by having a medical professional manually drain your lymphatic system.

Camouflage
You can use camouflage makeup to cover and lingering bruises or discoloration to allow you to resume your normal daily activities like work much sooner without it being obvious that you had surgery. You can do this at home in milder cases or have a professional do it for you in more several cases.

Rest
Rest is an effective and important element in ensuring quick recovery. Despite any discomfort which may arise, it is important that you drink lots of fluids and get as much sleep as you possibly can. Let your recovery period be like a vacation. Read a book, rent a few movies, call over some friends and most importantly try to avoid getting stressed. Quality is often superior to quantity.