Minimizing Post-Op Side Effects

When planned and performed correctly by a board certified plastic surgeon, cosmetic surgery can be very rewarding and even life-changing. However, it is important for patients to understand that all cosmetic treatments come with a degree of risk and side effects. In this blog post, New York plastic surgeon Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha shares his top recommendations for minimizing post-op side effects.

Get Plenty of Rest

Following your procedure, you should anticipate taking several days off work and your normal routine, during which you will be expected to be a total couch potato. Rest and sleep are key to a successful recovery as they allow your body enough time to heal from swelling and bruising. Avoid straining yourself and lifting heavy objects. Stay hydrated and make sure to rest in the positions recommended by your surgeon.

Start Moving Early

Though rest is definitely important, so is moving your body as soon as it is safe to do so. Engaging in light activity helps promotes circulation and blood flow. Once your surgeon approves it, start by walking around your home for a few minutes a day. Add more minutes to your walks as time passes. Your plastic surgeon should be able to give you a detailed timeline detailing when it is safe to exercise again during your initial consultation.

Avoid Blood Thinners

Taking anti-coagulants (blood thinners) before your procedure increases the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery. Blood thinners should also be avoided after surgery for the same reason. Prior to your procedure, your plastic surgeon should provide you with a detailed list of blood thinners and other medications to avoid before and after your treatment.

Avoid Smoking

Not only is smoking detrimental to your overall health, it also interferes with your body’s healing process during recovery. Smoking directly compromises the success and beauty of your results, prolonging recovery and leading to complications like bleeding and visible scarring.

Keep Your Plastic Surgeon in the Loop

It is important to communicate with your plastic surgeon while you are healing. If you notice anything that seems not quite right, don’t ignore it. It may be a sign of a (rare) complication that should be addressed right away. Your surgeon can also recommend additional tips to help enhance your recovery.

For more tips on how to minimize post-op side effects, please contact Dr. Kayastha’s New York plastic surgery office. Schedule a one-on-one consultation by calling (518) 346-3125.