How Lifestyle Changes Before Plastic Surgery Can Improve Results
Here at Frisco Plastic Surgery & MedSpa, we feel that patients should have a good understanding of all phases of surgery. That means knowing about the pre-op phase of treatment as well as the post-surgical recovery process. By knowing what to do before the first incision is even made, our Dallas facial surgery patients can have realistic expectations about the nature of their surgery and what they can do to enhance wellness.
Improving your lifestyle before an operation can work wonders with healing. With that in mind, let's go over a few things that patients can do before surgery to improve the overall process.
Avoid Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products
Cigarettes and tobacco products are bad for your general health and wellness. In addition to causing lung disease, heart disease, cancer, and hypertension cigarettes can affect your ability to heal. People who smoke are more prone to infection and take longer to recover from surgery. To improve your ability to recover, be sure to avoid tobacco products for a few weeks before and a few weeks after surgery.
Abstain from Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages can be good every now and then, but they can similarly have a negative impact on your ability to heal much like cigarettes. Be sure to avoid alcoholic beverages before you undergo surgery, and to similarly abstain from alcohol until your surgeon says it's okay.
Exercise and Be Active
Exercise is a great way to promote general wellness, good blood circulation, and to maintain a healthy weight. In your lead up to surgery, it's a good idea to stay fit and be active. This is actually a crucial step for some body contouring surgeries since it will help you get in the habit of exercising regularly.
Eat a Healthy and Well-Balanced Diet
You are what you eat, and if you eat healthy, you're more likely to be in good shape to recover and thrive. Be sure to eat a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid processed foods, excessive sugar, sodas, and trans fats, and instead look to healthy fats (e.g., fish) and lean sources of protein.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Proper hydration is part of a healthy lifestyle. It can help your body function properly and allow you to feel great through the day. Be sure to drink a few glasses of water through the day as you feel thirsty. If you're exercising and working up a sweat, drink a bit more water to replenish lost fluid.
Avoid Taking Medications as Directed
Blood thinners and certain medications can have a bad affect on post-surgical healing. Be sure to discuss any medications you're on with your surgeon and to avoid taking them as directed. Your surgeon will provide you with information on when you can resume taking these medications after surgery.
Discuss Your Anxiety and Stress with Others
Cosmetic surgery doesn't just affect your body. It can be a source of stress and anxiety as well. That's why it's important that you speak with your friends and loved ones about what's on your mind. Even talking to the team at the practice can be helpful for addressing concerns and reducing stress going into surgery.
Contact Frisco Plastic Surgery & MedSpa
To learn more about plastic surgery procedures and the recovery process, be sure to contact our cosmetic skin care and plastic surgery center today. The entire team at Frisco Plastic Surgery & MedSpa will help you have a fast and problem-free recovery process.