Plastic surgery may be an elective procedure in most cases; however, you should still treat is as you would any other critical surgery. In order to properly recover and have the results that you hope for, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions.
The only way that you’ll get your money’s worth is to avoid making common post-surgery mistakes. Let’s look at six things you should avoid at all costs following getting plastic surgery.
Go Back To Work Too Soon
If your doctor told you that you need to rest a certain amount of time before returning to your normal schedule, then it’s imperative that you do so. The reason for this is because your body needs time to repair itself and adjust to the surgery.
Depending on the procedure that you had done, you may be instructed to stay on bed rest for as many as several weeks. You could cause your muscles to tear or your scars to open.
Go Swimming
Your surgical site should be kept dry and out of any body of water for at least several weeks. This includes swimming pools, lakes, rivers, oceans, and hot tubs! Give your body time to totally heal!
Take Anti Inflammatories
People who have recently had plastic surgery done should avoid taking any sort of anti-inflammatory medication. The reason for this is because these drugs can have an adverse effect or any prescriptions given to the patient for their recovery.
This is especially important if you’ve undergone a tummy tuck or had liposuction done. If you aren’t sure what drugs are ok and not ok to take, then ask your doctor for a complete list.
Showering
As much as you might want to go home and have a hot steamy shower, you should wait at least two days. Your doctor may advise a slightly longer or shorter timeframe, depending on what procedure you had done.
When it’s finally time to be able to shower, it’s important that you have something to hold onto in case you feel dizzy. It’s not uncommon for post-surgery patients to pass out.
Going To The Gym
Even though you may be eager to get back to your regular exercise regime, it’s critical that you hold off. Your doctor may instruct you to wait longer or shorter, depending on what operation you had done.
As a general rule of thumb, you shouldn’t lift anything heavy for at least several weeks. Most people are instructed to avoid lifting anything over 1 pound initially.
Exposure to The Sun
The sun is damaging enough as it is; however, it’s especially dangerous following plastic surgery. Your surgical site should be covered entirely for at least a year after your procedure to ensure proper healing.
