You’ll need to wear the compression wrap or garment on the area of the incision immediately after surgery and up to 3 or 4 weeks after. It will feel a little uncomfortable at first, but you’ll get used to it after a while. Your doctor may give you a garment with less compression after your first checkup. Remove the compression wrap only when showering (24 hours to 48 hours after surgery with your doctor’s permission). [5] X Research source Compression wraps are supposed to be tight, but talk to your doctor if it’s so tight that it’s keeping you up at night.
Your doctor will let you know when it’s time for you to make an appointment to have any stitches or staples removed.
Your doctor may recommend natural pain-killers like arnica, CBD, or fish oil supplements. [8] X Expert Source Daniel Barrett, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon Expert Interview. 23 July 2020. Tell your doctor if you normally take blood thinners (Coumadin, Plavix, or aspirin) as these can interfere with the healing process. They’ll probably recommend that you stop taking them for a little while or they might reduce your dosage. Ask your doctor when you should restart your blood thinners or return to your normal dose. If your doctor prescribes antibiotics, take the entire course as directed and don’t stop just because you feel better. If you have struggled with an addiction to prescription pain medicine in the past, talk to your doctor about finding alternatives for pain management. You can also have someone manage and administer the pills for you during your post-op recovery. [9] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source Narcotic pain meds often cause constipation, so many doctors recommend taking stool softeners while taking narcotics.
Avoid all forms of exercise until your doctor approves, which can be anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks after surgery depending on the type of surgery you had (e. g. , if you had mini-liposuction of the neck versus full liposuction of the stomach). [12] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
For example, if you weigh 180 pounds, aim to drink 90 fluid ounces (2,700 mL) of liquids per day. [14] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source Avoid dehydrating liquids like coffee and teas with high amounts of caffeine (switch to decaf and herbal teas instead). Soups and broths count as liquids as well!
Animal sources of protein include chicken, red meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. If you don’t have the energy to cook fresh meats (or if no one’s around to help you), order in or sign up for a meal delivery service. Some plant-based protein options include tofu, tempeh, seitan, beans and legumes, broccoli, spinach, and mushrooms. Fish and eggs are also a great source of B12, which keeps your blood cells and nervous system healthy. Vegans can take a B12 supplement (with their doctor’s approval) and/or sprinkle nutritional yeast on their foods. [17] X Research source If you find you have a low appetite, protein shakes are a good option.
If you don’t eat meat or seafood, ask your doctor about taking a zinc supplement (look for one that contains or 15 mg, which is 100% of your daily value). Vitamin C is especially helpful in rebuilding collagen and improving skin tissue. Zinc can help lower the risk of infection at the incision site. Double-up on zinc and vitamin C by making chicken or steamed lobster tacos with corn tortillas, roasted red bell peppers, and salsa. Veganize it by omitting cheese (or using nutritional yeast) and replacing the meat with beans, tempeh, or tofu scramble!
Avoid taking iron supplements because they can interact with prescribed medications (like antibiotics). [20] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
Incorporate fermented items like sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, miso, and kombucha into your daily diet. Fill up on fiber by eating whole grain breads and pastas, oats, lentils, beans, chia seeds, artichokes, brussels, beets, and broccoli. Try to get 25 grams if you’re a woman and 38 grams if you’re a man. [22] X Research source Try making a tasty parfait with yogurt, berries, and granola for a healthy dose of probiotics, fiber, and antioxidants. Walk around a little after meals to help with digestion.
Make a power smoothie with 3 different types of berries for a snack.
Alcohol will weaken your immune system and increase the risk of infection. Only start drinking alcohol again after 3 to 4 weeks and with your doctor’s approval. Definitely avoid drinking if you’re still taking pain medication.
