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On the BlogPlastic Surgery Recovery: Ways to Ease the Pain and Swelling Post-Procedure

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Admit it. If there’s a plastic surgery technique that can make the recovery painless, you’d do it in a heartbeat. Sadly, reality bites. Whatever plastic surgery procedure you choose, there will always be a recovery period involved.

Although the recovery is an essential step to your transformation, it can be an unattractive and painful experience. The uncertainty of being able to recuperate well without any complications and the timing as to when you can return to your normal routine can also add to the frustration.

Thankfully, there are different ways you can speed up your recovery, heal fast, and ease the pain and swelling after the plastic surgery procedure.

Pain and Inflammation Control

Whether you choose to have a mommy makeover or a facelift, these tips can make you well prepared for the recovery phase and help you nurse back to good health.

  • Keep the affected area elevated.

This is crucial in the first 72 hours of your recovery. When you keep your body slightly elevated above the level of your heart after a facelift or a breast augmentation surgery, the blood flow will not accumulate in the treatment area and this will lead to the gradual decrease in swelling. Once the swelling disappears, the pain will also subside.

  • Practice proper wound care.

Keep your incision wounds clean to prevent infection. An infected wound can lead to further pain and swelling, which can cause further complications and slow recovery.

  • Apply cold compress.

Cold temperatures constrict the blood vessels, which then leads to the decrease in inflammation. Not only will a cold compress suppress swelling, it can also numb the nerves that send pain signals to the brain to reduce any discomfort. When you apply compress, don’t place it on the area longer than 15 minutes to prevent frost bites. Also, do this in the first 24 to 72 hours post procedure for it to work. Otherwise, cold compress will only numb the pain but won’t reduce swelling.

  • Eat healthy servings of fruits, vegetables, and fish.

The vitamins and minerals you get out of this food will strengthen your immune system and make your body heal faster. The consumption of unhealthy fats and food rich in high-carbohydrates, on the other hand, will increase swelling, which can affect your recovery.

  • Massage the affected area gently.

Gentle massage can improve blood flow, which will aid in the decrease in swelling and pain. However, refrain from massaging the area when it’s tender to prevent bruises.

Plastic surgery recovery can be an unpleasant experience, but you can do your share to make it a comfortable one. Follow Dr. Sato’s recovery instructions in addition to these tips and you can return to optimal health in no time.

Discover the different plastic surgery procedures that can achieve your aesthetic goals by consulting board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Erika Sato. Call today to schedule a consultation.

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