Deciding to have facial surgery is challenging. Still, you finally gathered your determination, had the pre-operative appointment, and scheduled the operation. All that’s left to do now is wait and prepare yourself.
Recovery is a significant concern for many. Getting informed is an excellent way to reduce anxiety and ensure you go through the post-operative stages as comfortably as possible.
Before the Surgery
Let’s start by discussing how to set a solid foundation for recovery. Most notably, there might be emotional turmoil as the procedure date draws nearer. Handling these feelings is vital to the healing process, and it’s best to do it early.
So, visit Dr. Kopelman or another plastic surgeon’s website and read up on various procedures and their effects. Look at pre-op and post-op images to remind yourself why you want to go through with it.
Surgery Follow-Up
Your surgeon will schedule several follow-up meetings after your procedure. They’ll remove your stitches and assess the wound after a week or two, but you’ll meet before that time to discuss your progress.
Generally speaking, here’s what you can expect:
- Week one. You’ll experience pain and discomfort around the wound and take prescribed pain killers to manage it.
- Week two. There might still be some swelling, bruising, numbness, and tightness around the operated area. You’ll start feeling more like yourself, though.
- Weeks three and four. The residue bruising subsides, and you start feeling strong enough to resume your daily activities.
This general timeline applies to most procedures. On your end, follow the doctor’s orders over these first few weeks to reduce complications and ensure a smooth return to normal.
Handling Recovery at Home
The specifics depend on the specific surgery, your general health, and what your doctor advises. Still, knowing the general rules makes it easier to organize your post-operative time.
Activity
Getting enough rest helps your body recover, so don’t hesitate to nap whenever you feel tired. Sleeping in a recliner is a good option if your wound is causing pain when you lie down.
Avoid any activity that might reinjure your face during this time. For example, if you had a lip lift, follow a set of instructions for washing your teeth.
Nutrition
You might require a softer or even liquid diet for a while. Another consideration is the medications you’ll be taking, as many have diet-specific instructions. Either way, make sure you’re nourishing your body with light, healthy foods.
Incision Care
Apart from having your incision checked at the hospital, you’ll need to clean it daily with warm water and soap. Prepare yourself mentally for this task by reading about incision care and watching videos.
Tips to Manage Discomfort
The discomfort you’ll feel during the recovery period depends on many factors. These tips help in the majority of cases, though:
- Ice. Ice reduces swelling. You might need to apply cold dressing daily, even over facial bandages.
- Hydration. Surgery can decrease your bodily fluids. Drinking a lot of water helps you replenish the loss and makes you feel more energized post-op. Get a straw and take small sips to avoid injuring yourself.
- Direct sunlight. Ideally, avoid direct light exposure. If it’s impossible, use a high-UV protection cream and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
- Hobbies. Feeling restless as you’re recovering is normal. Stock up with books, a TV show, or a puzzle beforehand to keep yourself occupied.
- Asking for help. Even if you’re confident in your ability to handle yourself after the procedure, have somebody spend the first two to three days with you.
Your wound will soon look and feel better.
Make a Plan With Your Surgeon
Finally, remember that your doctor knows best. Always follow their advice, even if it contradicts the information you found on the internet.
These tips and explanations can help you prepare for the recovery process, but every person is different. Be kind to yourself, take time to heal before going back to your regular routines, and you’ll return to the world as a new and happier person.