It's normal to have mixed emotions when preparing to have plastic surgery. Although there isn't a magic formula to make up for the discomfort you’ll feel during recovery, there are things you can do to feel as ready as possible.
Thorough preparation before surgery is your best ally. Having the pieces in place before and after your procedure will dramatically reduce your stress levels. In this blog post, we’ll provide tips to help you get organized for surgery so you can enjoy a restful recovery period.
Getting Ready for the Actual Procedure
Being physically ready for surgery is crucial for minimizing risks and speeding up recovery. Here are the main areas to focus on:
Follow the Instructions Your Surgeon Gives You
Stick to your surgeon's pre-surgery instructions, which typically include dietary restrictions, medication adjustments, and lifestyle changes to reduce risks. These changes include stopping certain medications that increase bleeding, fasting before surgery, and avoiding alcohol and smoking.
Put Your Nutrition First
A nutrient-rich diet supports your immune system and promotes healing. Prioritize foods that are high in vitamins A and C, which are essential for skin health and wound healing. Incorporate lots of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your diet. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish and flaxseed, can also help reduce inflammation.
Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration helps maintain healthy skin, supports circulation, and can improve your overall energy levels. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Drinking herbal teas and eating water-rich fruits like watermelon and cucumbers also help you stay hydrated.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise can improve cardiovascular health, muscle tone, and overall stamina, making it easier for your body to handle the stress of surgery. To build muscle, incorporate both aerobic exercises, like walking or swimming, and strength training.
Gentle activities such as yoga or Pilates can enhance flexibility and reduce stress. Remember: you should always consult with your surgeon before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have pre-existing conditions.
Prioritzie Good Sleep
Sleep is crucial for your body's repair processes. It’s recommended that adults get 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Incorporating good sleep hygiene habits — like maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and avoiding screens before bed — can improve your sleep quality. Restful sleep improves your immune function, mood, and energy levels, all of which are important for both surgery and recovery.
Manage Stress
Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your daily routine, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature. Apps like Headspace or Calm can provide guided meditations that are easy to follow. Reducing stress can help you approach surgery with a more positive mindset and aid in a smoother recovery.
Avoid Harmful Substances
If you smoke, now is the time to quit. Smoking can impair blood flow and slow down the healing process. You’ll also need to limit alcohol consumption, as it can dehydrate your body and interfere with medications. Your surgeon can provide resources and support for quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake.
Review Pre-Op Materials
Read through the pre-op materials your surgeon provides. These guides cover what to expect before, during, and after surgery. Understanding this information helps you prepare mentally and physically, reducing surprises on the day of your procedure. Take notes and ask any questions during your pre-surgery consultations.
Choose Comfortable Clothing
Pick the right clothes for surgery day. For procedures like breast augmentation, wear a button-up shirt to avoid lifting your arms. For eyelid surgery, choose a top that doesn’t cover your collarbone to give easy access to your face. Loose, comfortable clothing will make moving around post-surgery easier.
How to Prepare for the Post-Surgery Recovery Period
Proper preparation for recovery can make your life much easier after surgery. Taking steps to reduce the need for unnecessary movement and manage your pain can make a world of difference. Here are some key to-dos that you’ll thank yourself for later:
Set Up a Recovery Area
Creating a dedicated, comfortable recovery space at home allows you to rest without moving around too much. Choose a quiet spot with comfortable bedding and pillows to support your body. Create a reservoir of entertainment options like books and TV shows/movies to keep you occupied while you relax. Also make sure essentials (your phone charger, remote, water, etc.) all have an easy-to-reach place next to you to avoid unnecessary strain.
Stock Up on Supplies
Having all necessary medical supplies ready ensures you can manage your care without last-minute trips to the store. Gather gauze, bandages, and prescribed medications before your surgery. Stock up on easy-to-prepare meals, snacks, and fluids to stay nourished and hydrated. Opening bottles of drinks in advance — or having someone around to open your drinks for you — will be super helpful if arm movement is limited. Buying things like a humidifier, compression garments, and specific post-op aids recommended by your surgeon can make your recovery more comfortable.
Organize Post-Surgery Care
Having support during the initial recovery phase can significantly ease your burden. A friend or family member can assist with daily tasks, provide emotional support, and help you move around safely. Make sure they know what to expect and how best to assist you.
If you have someone coming to help with childcare while your spouse cares for you, make sure everyone has clear roles to follow. For example, Person A will get the kids up and dressed while Person B makes lunch for everyone
Have Mental and Emotional Health Resources
Mental and emotional preparation can reduce anxiety and improve your overall outlook during recovery. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and gentle yoga can help you stay calm and focused. Even though plastic surgery isn’t the most painful recovery, the discomfort and limitations to your movements may start to feel emotionally taxing. Online forums like Reddit can provide practical advice based on real people’s experiences and emotional support. Know that you will feel “normal” again soon!
Plan for Time Off Work and Other Responsibilities
Requesting your time off work and creating an out-of-office plan to manage your daily responsibilities in advance can reduce stress during recovery. Taking care of household tasks like paying bills and arranging childcare beforehand allows you to focus on healing. Meal prepping can make your post-surgery period more manageable.
Keep Your Phone Close
Your phone should always be near you so you can stay in touch with your healthcare team and reach out for help if needed. Your surgeon or their office will likely check-in, and being accessible ensures you can address any follow-up questions or concerns promptly. This constant line of communication is vital for a smooth recovery.
Conclusion
Taking steps to optimize your physical health, organize your home, and plan for post-surgery care creates the supportive environment you need for a comfortable recovery. Whether you're preparing for a mommy makeover Atlanta or a tummy tuck in Sandy Springs, these tips will help you create a supportive environment for your recovery. Remember, proper planning is a time investment but when all is said and done, you’ll know it was 100% worth it!
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