Once you've got the work done and you're ready to enjoy the new YOU, there's just one more step.
We're not out of the woods yet-You still have to recover from your plastic surgery.
The number one reason why cosmetic surgery patients fail to achieve their beauty goals is that they don't recovery right.
If you don't heal properly there can be major problems, and costs as you go back for corrective surgery.
Recovering is not as tough as it sounds, but you have to do it right.
Here are some things to remember during this crucial period.
- Let the incisions heal All plastic surgery involves the doctor making cuts somewhere, and you want these incisions to heal right.
If they don't, you'll be left with visible scars that will make your operation meaningless.
As a worst case scenario, there may be infections.
Your incisions will swell, bruise, itch and generally feel uncomfortable for some period of time after the operation, depending on what kind of work you've had done.
Talk to your doctor and make sure you know what to expect.
If the scarring, swelling or bleeding is excessive, call your surgeon right away.
- Don't dry out For the healing process, you have to keep yourself hydrated.
Get plenty of fluids and make sure the area around your incisions in particular doesn't dry out.
You may also have pain medications that can give you a dry throat or dry out your body.
Make sure you keep the fluids going and follow your surgeon's advice.
- Take it easy When your work is done, you'll want to bounce right back into your busy, active lifestyle and show off the new you.
But, don't! Take it easy and don't exert yourself, especially the first few days after the surgery.
Your recovery time will vary depending on the amount of work done, but in general you should expect to be on your back for awhile.
No heavy lifting, no exercise (or light exercise), and not much activity.
Relax and let your body do its thing.
- Communicate with your doctor There will be follow-up appointments and these are really important.
Your surgeon will be checking to make sure you're healing right.
By having a look, your doctor can tell if you need any extra medications or adjustments made.
The main reason why cosmetic surgery doesn't work and you have to go back for more is lack of communication with the surgeon.
Follow doctor's orders.
Communication with the doctor is key.
Make sure you're both on the same page as far as your recovery is concerned.
- Be patient You won't strut out of the clinic two hours later with the perfect body.
You may not even see any difference at first.
It takes time to heal, and it also takes time for results to show.
Don't expect too much too soon and get frustrated about it.
After your plastic surgery, take it easy.
Let your body heal itself.
Keep hydrated, and go in for your regular check-ups with the doctor.
Your surgeon will keep tabs on your body's healing and spot problems before they cause trouble.
Most of all, have realistic expectations about your surgery.
When you have your consultation, your doctor will explain what plastic surgery can and can't do.
You can see before and after pictures to give you an idea of what will happen.
Heal right, and you can enjoy the new you!