There are many reasons why patients may want to get a plastic surgical procedure. However, whether they’re getting breast implants or reconstructive surgery following an accident or medical condition, the process doesn’t end when the patient gets home.
Depending on your actions and lifestyle choices, you can run into complications that impact the results of your plastic surgery. To ensure you get the most out of your procedure, let’s take a look at what not to do after plastic surgery.
Smoking Cigarettes
Smoking isn’t just bad for your health — it’s one of the last things you should do after a plastic surgery procedure. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to healing tissues and the incision site. This interference delays the natural healing process and may increase the risk of infection and scarring.
As such, you must avoid smoking to achieve optimal plastic surgery results, especially after procedures like breast augmentation. Additionally, smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to heal and increasing discomfort during recovery. If you want to avoid complications post-surgery, put the lighter away!
Going Out in the Sun
If you want to protect yourself after plastic surgery, limit your exposure to the sun. The skin around the incision site is particularly sensitive and susceptible to damage from UV rays. This exposure can increase inflammation, resulting in prolonged recovery and potential scarring.
When you need to go outside, it’s a good idea to put on sunscreen and wear protective clothing to shield your skin from the sun. Following these precautions helps ensure the best possible plastic surgery results and supports the overall healing process.
Extensive Exercise
Strenuous exercise too soon after plastic surgery can pose serious risks to the healing process and overall recovery. Activities that raise blood pressure or cause stress on the body can disrupt the healing tissues and prolong the recovery period. As such, most plastic surgeons advise patients to refrain from heavy lifting, intense cardio, or any exercise that can cause complications.
However, this doesn’t mean you should avoid moving altogether. Light walks can help your blood circulate and prevent any pain medication you take from causing constipation.
Not Get Enough Water
Staying hydrated after plastic surgery is essential for supporting the body’s healing process and maintaining overall health. Drinking enough water will help you manage any pain and facilitate the recovery process. Proper hydration also supports the body’s ability to process pain medications and heal more effectively.
Ignore Directions
Following post-procedure directions you’re given is crucial for a successful recovery and optimal plastic surgery results. Plastic surgeons provide specific instructions to help patients manage pain, reduce the risk of infection, and support the healing process.
By adhering to these directions, patients can minimize discomfort and promote faster healing. Ignoring these instructions can lead to complications that prolong recovery and potentially jeopardize the results of the surgery. As a result, it’s best to follow your doctor’s instructions to ensure the best possible outcome from your surgical procedure.
Call Art Plastic Surgery Today
At Art Plastic Surgery, we perform surgical augmentation and reconstructive procedures for patients throughout New Jersey. Our experts specialize in many different procedures, including reconstructive eyelid surgery, breast reconstruction, and much more. Get in touch with our experts to learn more about our services.