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Three Common Misconceptions About Plastic Surgery Recovery

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female-has-face-checked-by-staffThe recovery period after plastic surgery is one of the main topics that I always discuss with my patients during consultation appointments in my office. I’m glad that so many patients come into their procedure understanding how important the plastic surgery recovery period is and why it is so critical to do everything possible to ensure the smoothest recovery possible. However, certain misconceptions about plastic surgery recovery still persist. This is why I thought it would be instructional to discuss these myths and provide some clarity on the subject once and for all.

#1: There Are Shortcuts Available to Speed Up Recovery

While it’s obviously understandable that someone would want to fast forward through the recovery period and immediately enjoy their final plastic surgery results, patience is critical during this time. The truth is that the recovery period is often simpler and quicker than most patients realize. There is no need to cut any corners. Follow your plastic surgeon’s post-procedure instructions carefully and don’t worry about speeding up the process.

#2: The Recovery Period Means Laying In Bed All Day

The above statement is false. While it is essential to relax and give your body the time it needs to rest and recover after surgery, it’s still important to move around and be active during the recovery period. In fact, little bits of physical activity like walking around the house or taking a light walk outside can be extremely helpful for recovery. Post-surgery activity can promote healthy circulation. However, you should be careful not to overdo it and limit yourself to only moderate activity (and no heavy lifting).

#3: Vaping is OK During Recovery

This statement is absolutely untrue. While many people see vaping as a healthier alternative to smoking, no one should vape while recovering from surgery. Nicotine is very unhealthy in any form and can constrict the blood vessels, thereby making it more challenging for the body to recover following surgery.

No matter the specific procedure (or procedures) you are considering, taking your recovery period seriously and following your plastic surgeon’s post-surgery recovery instructions closely is essential for achieving and maintaining the best results possible from your surgery. For more information or to schedule a plastic surgery consultation, contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. You can also follow along with me on Facebook for additional plastic surgery tips, news, videos, and much more.

4 Simple Tips To Help Prepare for Any Plastic Surgery Procedure

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woman-prepares-for-surgery-with-doctorThanks to advancements in the field, it’s never been more safe and simple to undergo a plastic surgery procedure. However, even “minor” cosmetic surgery procedures are still surgery and should obviously not be taken lightly. And one of the most important things that a person can do to ensure the best, safest, and longest-lasting plastic surgery experience is to properly prepare. Today, I thought it would be informative to provide a few tips to help patients prepare for plastic surgery.

Reach Your Goal Weight Before Surgery

This may seem counterintuitive to some people, but it’s best for patients to reach or be near their ideal weight before a body contouring procedure like a tummy tuck or liposuction. These procedures are intended to remove excess skin, tissue, and/or small amounts of fat. And while the results are typically fantastic, they are not meant to provide significant weight loss for patients. Additionally, if you gain weight after the procedure it can potentially affect your results.

Help Yourself With A Good Diet

Eating right in the weeks leading up to your surgery can help give your immune system a boost and trigger the body’s natural healing properties. This includes eating a lot of healthy proteins including lean meats and fish. Additionally, loading up on fiber (especially fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts) and reducing sodium intake (which can lead to swelling and inflammation) can both be incredibly helpful before and after your procedure has taken place.

Prepare Mentally

Preparation for plastic surgery goes far beyond the physical side of things. Mental preparation can take many forms. For starters, speak with your plastic surgeon to properly understand the benefits and risks of your procedure, as well as following important post-op information and what results you can realistically expect. If you have any specific concerns or anxieties regarding your surgery, make them heard beforehand. Communication is key!

Gather The Necessary Supplies for Recovery

Some limitations with mobility (including leaving the home, using stairs, bending, or lifting) should be expected following surgery. Which is why it’s so important to make sure you pick up any supplies you’ll need before your surgery, in order to have them nearby when you need them. Depending on your specific procedure, this may include medications, snacks, comfortable clothing, compression garments, and ice packs. Because the post-surgery recovery period can be a pretty sedentary time, having books, magazines, or tv/movies picked out beforehand can be helpful.

For plastic surgery patients, there’s no such thing as being too knowledgeable about your procedure. This is why I make sure to allow my patients the time and space they need to have all their specific questions, concerns, and curiosities addressed during plastic surgery consultation appointments in my office. Helping my patients fully prepare for their surgery is a big reason why I’ve been named a Top Doctor in Atlanta for over 20 years, an honor that I do not take lightly. For more information or to schedule a plastic surgery consultation, please contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. And follow along with me on Facebook and Twitter for additional tips, videos, news, and more from the world of plastic surgery.