Summer is the season for plastic surgery, as people take advantage of their vacation days to have procedures done – but having plastic surgery isn’t as simple as just taking a few days off from work. In fact, depending on the procedure, it can take quite a while to recover. Before scheduling a procedure, here’s what you need to know about the recovery process:
You Can’t Just Take The Day
A growing number of plastic surgery procedures are advertised as lunchtime interventions, but this is rarely the case. While you may only need two or three days off after something like basic vaginal rejuvenation or limited liposuction, most plastic surgeries require about a week off from work. Something like a breast reduction or augmentation will typically require anywhere from three days to a week off, while a tummy tuck can require about ten days of rest before you’re ready to be back on your feet.
There are a few procedures that can be done quickly with little recovery, but they’re typically non-invasive procedures such as fillers. Liposuction, which is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures right now, is also done with just local anesthesia, so you’ll be back to your old self in a few hours, with just a few added compression garments.
Create A Comfortable Space
Even after you’re able to go back to work, you’re still going to need a lot of extra rest after your procedure, so make sure you have a comfortable space to rest and people to support you. For example, sleeping on your stomach may not give you comfort after breast augmentation. Many people feel more at ease sleeping in a recliner or on a couch because it limits their range of movement even if they don’t typically sleep that way. Similarly, if you’re having a tummy tuck, you’ll want to find a comfortable position on your back that doesn’t put pressure on your incisions.
Meal Prepping Is A Must
The last thing you’ll want to do during the first few days after surgery is prep and cook food. That’s why, before your procedure, you should make a few simple meals that you can reheat and eat when you get home. You might also want to get some paper plates and plastic cutlery so that you don’t have to worry about dishes. Anesthesia makes many people nauseated, so consider picking up some ginger ale or other stomach soothing items, just in case you’re not feeling your best after surgery.
Ask For Help
More than anything, after surgery it’s important that you’re prepared to ask for help. Ask family or friends if they can help you do laundry, pick up some groceries, or help with your kids. You might also consider hiring a housekeeper, pet sitter, and other home helpers to get you through those first few weeks. You’re going to be tired after your procedure and resting is more important than tidying your house.
As you prepare for plastic surgery, treat the process as though you’re going on a trip. Prepare everything you’re going to want on hand in the few days following surgery, from medications to clothes, books, and movies.
The more you do in advance, the easier and more comfortable your recovery will be.
