Jeff Zwiren, MD

Recovery – It Is All About the Preparation

There are many things that you can do to ease the recovery process.  Bruising and swelling can be kept to a minimum by following a few simple steps.  

Easing the pain and swelling after any plastic surgical procedure is a lofty goal.  Of course the amount of pain that you have is related to the type and the extent of the procedure.  With proper planning there are ways to easy the recovery process and to have a smooth and safe recovery.  

It is very important to carefully follow your plastic surgeon’s instructions.  It is important to be sure that you avoid medications and over the counter drugs that can prolong bruising and swelling.  In the early post operative period the judicious use of ice  and iced compressions can help to decrease swelling.  You may be instructed to use certain herbal medications before and after surgery.  Useful botanicals include arnica Montana and Bromelan.  Carefully follow instructions for the use of these products. Many patients report that there was significant reduction in bruising and swelling.   be instructed to  If there is a salve or cream he wants you to apply to the site, make  

It is important to move after any surgical procedure.  You do not want to lay around in the bed for prolonged periods of time.  This increases the risks of pneumonia and deep vein thrombosis.  Many plastic surgeons use pain pumps to decrease post operative discomfort.  These pain pumps are basically large syringes that are filled with a local anesthetic.  There is a small filter that delivers a continuous infusion of a Novocain type drug.  The use of these devices can greatly facilitate recovery from some procedures.  

It is helpful to talk to your surgeon about types and locations of your incisions.  For example, on occasion an abdominoplasty can be done through a more limited incision.   

Recovery is also enhanced with the newer types of general anesthesia.  New inhalational agents have been and are being developed that wear off faster and alleviate many of the prolonged effects of anesthesia.  You should speak with your surgeon and anesthesiologist and learn about the alternatives.

For many facial and body procedures post operative lymphomorphatic massage may be beneficial.  Certain massage techniques have been developed that help to facilitate the flow of body fluids away from the surgical areas.  It is always beneficial to decrease swelling as this helps to decrease pain and increases the ability to move.   

Be prepared following surgery.  Have plenty of dressings and pillows available to support  you and to help find a comfortable position. . Before going in for your procedure, have all the items needed for your recovery at home and ready for you. This also includes prescriptions, ice, and a supportive family.

Article Tags: Post Operative

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