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Tips for Easing Your Recovery After Plastic Surgery

After plastic surgery, your recovery process varies depending on the type of procedure you had. Recovery for facial surgery looks different from the healing of a breast augmentation, for example. All this said, you want to know what to expect during your recovery process — and how to speed it along. 

We’re here to help. At our offices in Torrance and Los Alamitos, California, Linda Swanson, MD, and our team can talk you through what to expect post-operation. With her expertise in a broad range of plastic surgery procedures, Dr. Swanson can also provide advice to help your recovery go as quickly and smoothly as possible.

We’ll tailor our recommendations based on both the procedure(s) you choose and your unique body. But there are a few general tips that can help ease your healing process. 

Take it easy

Rest plays a critical role in your body’s healing processes. Plan to take some time off work after your surgery. Dr. Swanson will let you know how much time is appropriate based on the type of procedure(s) you choose. 

While you’re home, plan to lay around. This isn’t the time to deep clean your house or reorganize your closet. Rest allows your body to do its healing work, helping you get back on your feet faster. 

Ample sleep also helps your body heal. Aim to get at least seven hours of shut-eye each night. 

Follow our after-care instructions

Because Dr. Swanson has extensive plastic surgery expertise, she knows what works best to help patients heal. We’ll send you home with very specific post-operative instructions, such as when and how to change any dressings. 

Make sure you follow our directions carefully. They’re designed to help you heal quickly and fully, so you can enjoy your optimal results as soon as possible. 

Protect your skin

To minimize scarring after your procedure, work to keep your skin healthy and hydrated, especially in the first couple of weeks after surgery. Make sure to clean the area regularly (our after-care instructions will outline how to do so). We can also recommend moisturizers that will be safe for use in the area. 

Talk to us about any discomfort you feel

Certain medications can interfere with your recovery, so don’t reach for an over-the-counter solution if you’re feeling any pain or discomfort. Instead, give our office a call. We can set you up with the right option for your pain level and your overall healing. 

Be patient

When it comes to plastic surgery recovery, slow and steady wins the race. A few extra days of taking it easy might feel long now, but they can make all the difference in your results long-term. 

We stay involved with you after your procedure, ensuring that you’re healing like you should. Based on your recovery up to the current point, we’ll give you rough timelines of when we think you’ll be back to 100%. Don’t try to rush toward them, and be flexible. Recovery might take a little longer than you want, but your results will make it well worth it.

If you have questions about the healing process for any plastic surgery that interests you, feel free to call our office nearest you or book a visit online today. We’re here to be your start-to-finish guide to plastic surgery. 

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