Many people who visit a plastic surgeon for the first time do not always realize that cosmetic surgery is far more than an outpatient procedure. Don't be naive before having work done for the first time - get informed about the recovery you will be facing.
If you are planning on having cosmetic surgery and are expecting to be back at work and living normally as soon as it's done,
it is time to speak with your plastic surgeon about the proper recovery time you will need to expect.
Cosmetic surgery may not seem very intense because there are no organs being removed or torn ligaments being fixed, but it is still a surgical procedure that the human body will need to bounce back from.
That does not mean that you will be stuck in a hospital bed for weeks before being allowed to return home, but it does mean that you will need to discuss post-operative procedures with your plastic surgeon before your work is done.
In many cases, recovering from cosmetic surgery is something that will only take days or potentially a few weeks, but it is a vitally important part of the process nonetheless. On one hand, potential complications with your overall health can certainly develop if you do not properly care for yourself following surgery. On another hand, the results you will ultimately see from your procedure may suffer as well if you are not careful about allowing them to heal properly.
So what specific things do you need to find out about your recovery? For starters, your plastic surgeon should supply you with all of the necessary information well in advance so you can plan properly. At the same time, unique circumstances about your specific situation such as your living arrangements, the potential for help from other individuals and similar things that can affect your recovery period can raise more specific questions that you will need to ask.
It is always best to first determine how long you should expect to be recovering before you can get back to regular activities. This will allow you to plan the proper time off from work and other responsibilities, and will also help you determine how long you may need help around the house.
With this, you should also determine what specific limitations you can expect to have. This can include having to be off your feet, not being able to lift certain amounts of weight and even being restricted in things like hearing, seeing or speaking.
Figuring out which, if any, medications you may be required to take is another important step. Because each person is different, your prescriptions may be as well, and many can affect how well you can function and perform everyday tasks. By identifying the necessary medication you will need in advance, you will have a better idea of what your post-op capabilities and requirements will be.
Finally, make sure you and your plastic surgeon discuss potential complications that can arise. While most cosmetic surgeries go off without a hitch, that does not mean you should not be prepared for certain issues. By knowing what can arise in a worst-case scenario and how to identify it, you will prepare yourself to be vigilant about your own personal well being.
