Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Guide


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Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Recovery

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Plastic Surgery Guide
Costs of Top Cosmetic Surgery Procedures
Plastic Surgery Risks
Preparing for Plastic Surgery
Recovery after Surgery
Glossary of Cosmetic SurgeryTerms
Plastic Surgery Statistics

Recovery

See each procedure for specific recovery information.
[ ] Apply ice packs or compresses to minimize swelling
[ ] Do not take aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications (your doctor can provide you with a list of OTC medications to avoid)
[ ] Do not smoke or be exposed to secondary smoke during recovery
[ ] Avoid exposure to direct sunlight
[ ] Use a sunblock (minimum 15 SPF) to protect your skin
[ ] Go to follow up appointments to reduce complications

First visit: Bandages usually removed. Stitches that are not absorbable will be removed after 3-10 days.
Return to work: 3 days-3 weeks.
Exercise: 2 weeks after facial surgery, 4 weeks after body work.

These are general guidelines. Your doctor knows your situation best.

Depression

Depression is common following cosmetic surgery. There are several factors that contribute to post-operative depression, including:

The anticipation and stress of preparing for surgery can have a rebound effect
The medications, anesthesia and trauma of the surgery have physical effects that will affect your emotional well-being
Stress and fear regarding complications and disfigurement
Refraining from exercise can make you feel tired, blue, and out of sorts
Adjusting to your new look
Dealing with family and friends reactions to your surgery
Financial stress
Feeling guilty about having the procedure

Expecting to have a downtime and accepting it as normal will help you get back to normal sooner. Take time to relax, meditate and care for yourself. It is also important to have support from others. Be sure to ask for help from others. You can also find support online with other people who have had the same procedure and may have similar experiences.

Research shows that overall depression rates decrease overall following cosmetic surgery. Mean scores for depression* improved from 11.2 preoperatively to 6.5 at 1 month, and to 6.3 at 6 months after surgery.

*using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD). Source: Rankin M, Borah G, Perry AW, Wey PD, Quality-of-life-outcomes after cosmetic surgery. Plast Reconstr Surg. 1999 Sep;104(4):1209-10.

Go to next section (Plastic Surgery Statistics)

Information provided is for general education about breast augmentation, breast reduction, face lifts, liposuction, tummy tucks, rhinoplasty and other cosmetic plastic surgery procedures. This information is subject to change. Smart Plastic Surgery.com does not guarantee that it is accurate or complete, and is not responsible for any actions resulting from the use of this information. General information provided in this fashion should not be construed as specific medical advice or recommendation, and is not a substitute for a consultation and physical examination by a physician. Only discussion of your individual needs with a qualified physician will determine the best method of treatment for you. All board certified plastic surgeons listed are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and/or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Board certified plastic surgeons are verified by the American Board of Medical Specialties.