Healing is a process that cannot be rushed. And although the time may not seem fast enough, your surgeon’s instructions on post-operative care are the source for a speedy recovery. After a surgical procedure such as a mommy makeover, tummy tuck, or liposuction, and even after BOTOX®, there is naturally some downtime as you heal and recover before you can return to regular activities. During the next couple days and weeks following your procedure, the following tips below could cut your recovery time in half.
Stick to a healthy diet
What you eat has a significant impact on the healing process. It’s important to eat a lot of protein, which is essential for wound healing and muscle and skin regrowth. You should reduce your intake of salt, which causes your body to retain water, exacerbating swelling. Sugar intake should be limited, as sugar can suppress your immune system and interfere with normal blood glucose levels. If you are nauseous, try eating smaller meals or snacks throughout the day rather than two or three large meals.
Stay hydrated
It’s not just what you eat that matters, but also what you drink. Water is a crucial element in wound healing. Drinking plenty of water helps bring oxygen and important nutrients to your cells, allowing them to do an optimal job of recovering. You can also hydrate with skim milk, tea, diluted juice, or flavored waters, but steer clear of sports drinks, as they tend to contain large amounts of sodium. High-water-content foods such as juicy fruits also help you stay hydrated.
Get plenty of rest
You may start to feel restless or like you should be doing more, but remember that rest is absolutely vital to proper recovery. Listen to your body – not your to-do list. If you’re tired, rest. The other stuff can wait. Your recovery is happening right now.
…and exercise
You should get plenty of rest throughout your recovery, but each day should include some movement as well. Gentle walking is a great way to ease back into your normal level of activity. Exercise will improve your circulation, carrying healing oxygen to the surgical site. Don’t overdo it, and stop if you feel tired, dizzy, or nauseous.
Dress comfortably
If you wear a compression garment, it’s a good idea to have two – one to wash and one to wear at a time. These garments can add support and comfort, so many patients prefer to wear them even after their doctors give them the go-ahead to discontinue use. Avoid tight waistbands and anything that feels scratchy or makes you itch. A soft tank top under your compression garment can help prevent itching.
Minimize scarring
There are several ways to minimize the appearance of any scar. First, some gentle massaging with your fingers can stimulate blood flow, hastening to heal. You can use a product such as a scar cream or silicone sheeting to help the scar heal and fade. Be sure to keep it out of the sun, which could darken the scar permanently. Use sunscreen anytime you are outside.
Speedy Recovery Take Away
Whether you’ve had a tummy tuck, liposuction, or mommy makeover, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions for recovery. Dr. Rukmini Rednam places a strong focus on patient education by providing patients access to her services and procedures through blogs, testimonials, reviews, and videos.