Restoring My Complexion

4 Things That Can Sabotage Your Post-Facelift Recovery

27 January 2015 by Dylan Owens

Depending on the type of facelift surgery you underwent, according to Doc Shop, most people can expect to return to their job and other types of activities around 10 days to two weeks later. This is under the best circumstances, which means you didn't do anything to sabotage your recovery. It can be trying to follow the surgeon's recommendations exactly, but the do's and don'ts were stressed for a reason. Here are four things you should avoid doing while you're recovering from a facelift:

Insisting the Surgery Wasn't a Big Deal

The word "surgery" can be scary, which is why if you're considering a facelift, you might not think it's a big deal. However, just like having your appendix removed, undergoing a facelift is a major surgery, and it's important to ask for help and take your recovery seriously.

For example, if the doctor orders you to take it easy in bed and remain on your prescription pain medications, take their recommendations seriously. Once you're beginning to feel better, it's okay to switch to an OTC pain reliever and begin easing back into your routine.

In addition, it's vital to avoid any heavy lifting and stay out of the gym. Even if you're a stickler for staying in shape, even a low-impact workout can raise your blood pressure, which in turn can damage your fragile incisions.

Smoking

From the various types of cancer to the negative impact on your appearance, chances are you're already aware of the detrimental nature of smoking cigarettes. However, what you might not realize is that smoking after your surgery can negatively impact your body's ability to heal properly.

According to Dr. Michael A. Persky, a contributor to Real Self, smoking cigarettes lowers the amount of oxygen in your bloodstream and makes it harder for white blood cells to make it to the healing incisions. Basically, smoking makes it more difficult for your body to heal itself properly and fight off infections, which can lead to unnecessary complications.

If you're considering undergoing any type of surgery, including cosmetic surgery, it's vital to speak with your doctor about quitting smoking.

Indulging Your Sweet Tooth

Undergoing cosmetic surgery means several days spent healing after the procedure, which can lead many to forgo their typical, healthy diet.

However, before you start replacing baked chicken and whole wheat bread with your favorite types of fast food, it's even more important to stick to your healthy eating habits after surgery.

According to the Hospital for Special Surgery, drinking at least eight glasses of water – not diet soda or coffee – each day and consuming foods that are rich in calcium and protein can help make your recovery more successful.

If you're simply not hungry, don't take this opportunity to shed a few unwanted pounds and instead, the Hospital for Special Surgery recommends enjoying your favorite, healthy shake or smoothie!

Taking Medications or Consuming Products You Were Told to Avoid

Did you know that certain, otherwise healthy supplements and food types are dangerous to take before or after surgery?

Green tea and vitamin D are great ways to improve your health, that is unless you're undergoing a cosmetic procedure. This is because both of these can cause you to bleed excessively, which can cause huge problems, both during and after your procedure.

In addition, it's important to avoid any other foods, beverages or supplements your doctor recommends, including aspirin, ginseng and ginkgo.

Instead of worrying about getting back to your regular routine after your facelift from a place like http://www.myplasticsurgerygroup.com, go ahead and enjoy a few days in bed. Just remember to eat a healthy diet, let your spouse or loved one do all the heavy lifting and stay away from any supplements, foods or beverages that could negatively impact your recovery.  

Share

Search