Patients undergoing plastic surgery need support before and after treatment for better preparation and recovery. The medical team and others form part of the patient’s support system after surgery. Clear communication within this team enables patients to receive the care they need and can enhance post-surgical outcomes. Here is how to choose proper support before and after cosmetic surgery.
Communicate With Your Care Team
Before surgery, patients should receive comprehensive information about the procedure, recovery, and pre- and post-operative care from the initial consultation. Instructions before surgery include what to avoid, dietary requirements, and exercises to facilitate a quicker recovery and a smoother procedure. Reviewing the doctor’s guidelines with a caregiver enables patients to get the care they need at home.
After cosmetic surgery, your doctor provides you with wound care instructions and prescribes any necessary medications for your recovery. Clinicians also issue written directions as a supplement to verbal instructions. Such documents are a trusted resource for post-operative care, including follow-up information, alert signs to watch for, and an explanation of the body’s healing process.
Prepare Your Home
Preparing your home beforehand provides a suitable environment for rest and recuperation after plastic surgery. If your doctor has instructed you to avoid excessive movement, it is best to set up a recovery room close to frequently used areas, such as the bathroom, kitchen, and living room. This helps you move just short distances. Arrange your home to provide easy access to things like medication, water, and food. Your routine should also support your recovery, so have a plan that outlines daily activities approved by your doctor. Additionally, consider doing your grocery shopping and preparing meals in advance, and hiring someone to take care of your household chores.
Enlist Household and Caregiver Support
The availability of a trustworthy caregiver allows for smoother daily proceedings. If you live alone, arrange for help from a friend or relative until you can manage on your own. It may also be helpful to hire a home health aide to assist with tasks such as administering medication and changing wound dressings. A trained caregiver can also monitor your healing progress and notify your medical team if anything appears unusual. Discuss your caregiving needs with your surgeon before your procedure to help you plan effectively.
Get Medical Supervision
After plastic surgery, doctors issue specific aftercare instructions, which patients must follow for a healthy recovery. They also inform patients of signs to look out for and report in case of complications. Make sure to attend all post-surgical follow-ups with your doctor to allow them to monitor your healing progress. During follow-up appointments, your doctor may adjust your recovery plan to meet your current care needs.
Prioritize Your Emotional Well-being
It is common to have varying feelings about your plastic surgery, ranging from anticipation to concern. Discussing these feelings with a trusted friend or family member can help alleviate any negative emotions you may have about your procedure. Most plastic surgery clinics offer before-and-after pictures, which can help you envision how you will look after surgery. After your cosmetic surgery, you may need to adjust your routine to facilitate optimal recovery. During this period, incorporate safe activities that calm your mind, like journaling or meditation. Taking walks and practicing other forms of movement within medical parameters, while maintaining social contact, can also promote your emotional well-being following your surgery.
Deal With a Cosmetic Surgery Specialist
After-care significantly impacts experience and outcomes for patients undergoing cosmetic surgery. One of the things plastic surgeons may advise patients to do is establish a support system before surgery to help them with recovery at home. If you are seeking personalized attention for every stage of your cosmetic journey, choose a clinic that prioritizes patient support.
