Post-Op Care

While each and every procedure we offer at Advanced Cosmetic Surgery and Med Spa comes with a unique recovery or post-op care plan, there are some general rules and guidelines you’ll want to follow. No matter what procedure or procedures you’re having done, our team will be with you every step of the way. Either by phone or in-person, we’ll check in with you regularly, including after your surgery and before each post-op appointment. We look forward to helping you on your healing journey.

Immediately After Surgery

After your surgery, you will likely be groggy from anesthesia. We will allow you to wake up naturally in our relaxing surgical suites. We will keep track of your vitals to ensure you are able to go home the same day. Your family and/or friends will be allowed to visit you, and once you are ready to go, you will be able to go home. You will need a friend or family member to drive you home and take care of you for the first 24 to 48 hours.

The day after your surgery, our office will call you to ensure you’re doing well and that the healing process has started seamlessly.

Managing Pain, Swelling & Bruising

In the first few days and weeks of your recovery, you’ll likely be dealing with pain/discomfort, swelling, and bruising. These are very common side effects, no matter what cosmetic procedure you’re having done. Dr. Young will prescribe pain medications to relieve any discomfort.

On top of medication, applying cold compresses, wearing compression garments, and following any aftercare instructions Dr. Young provides will also help manage pain, swelling, and bruising and improve circulation during your recovery journey.

Caring for Your Incisions & Drains

Caring for your incisions and drains can be one of the most important parts of recovery, especially at the beginning. You’ll want to keep your incisions clean and dry. You will likely want to avoid showering for at least 48 hours. For bandages and dressings, you will need to avoid scrubbing or using lotions on or around the area. You’ll also want to change your dressings as instructed by Dr. Young.

For drains, you’ll want to regularly empty them while also keeping the drain and insertion site clean and dry.

It’s also vital to look for signs of infection. This can include a fever, redness, a foul smell, swelling, heat, or discharge.

Activity & Movement Guidelines

To start your post-op recovery period, you’ll want to get plenty of rest and limit your activity. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t move at all. Depending on the type of procedure you have done, Dr. Young typically recommends light walking around the house to prevent blood clots and promote circulation.

During your recovery, you’ll need to avoid bending, heavy lifting, and any strenuous activities (including housework). You will also want to avoid anything that puts pressure on your incision. Avoiding driving while you’re on pain medication and avoiding smoking and drinking are also required.

Nutrition, Hydration & Lifestyle

Proper nutrition and hydration are also vital during your recovery. You will want to drink plenty of fluids to stay as hydrated as possible. Additionally, to start, eating light meals and avoiding taking your medication on an empty stomach are vital. You’ll want to stick to fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains to promote healing.

On top of the lifestyle changes you’ll want to make at home, attending all your follow-up appointments with Dr. Young is crucial to ensure you’re healing properly.

Signs of Normal Healing vs. When to Contact Us

Many of our patients want to know the difference between normal healing and when to call our office due to complications. It’s a great question!

Normal healing typically consists of some redness, swelling, some clear or yellow drainage, and bruising. You’ll also likely have some discomfort and tightness. If you’re experiencing intense pain, spreading redness, an increase in swelling, a foul odor, a fever, and/or thick drainage, you should contact our office as soon as possible.

Follow-Up & Long-Term Care

The importance of attending your follow-up appointments cannot be overstated. During these appointments, Dr. Young can see how you’re healing, if there are any complications, and if your recovery plan needs to be adjusted. He will also approve you for more strenuous activity or exercise during these appointments.

In terms of long-term care, depending on the procedure you’ve had done, you may need to maintain a stable weight, stick to a quality skincare routine, protect your skin from the sun, and follow a scar management treatment plan. With these tips, you can enjoy your results for years to come.

Procedure-Specific Instructions

Each and every procedure comes with its own unique aftercare instructions. Dr. Young will review any and all procedure-specific instructions with you. Some instructions may include elevating your head or another part of your body, not putting pressure on a specific area, wearing a specific type of compression garment, and limiting movement in a certain area. Dr. Young and our staff will provide you with all the information you need.

Final Thoughts on Recovery

A safe recovery is just as important as a safe procedure. By following the instructions here and the ones Dr. Young gives you during your appointments, you can achieve the beautiful results you’re looking for while enjoying a smooth healing process. To start your journey today, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation. Call our office today.

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Dr. Levi Young, MD

“I am an artist. My artistic ability is an asset in the operating room, enabling me to visualize and create the best aesthetic results.”

With years of expertise in cosmetic surgery, Dr. Young prioritizes patients’ well-being and satisfaction. Whether you are considering a subtle enhancement or a transformative procedure, you can trust Advanced Cosmetic Surgery to deliver exceptional care and results tailored to your personal needs and cosmetic goals.

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