Preparing for Plastic Surgery: A Grocery Shopping List
Preparing for plastic surgery is an important aspect of the healing process. You’ll be away from work for at least a week—up to three or four weeks for some body contouring surgeries—so proper recovery will entail having the right items handy. That’s why our Dallas, TX plastic surgery center offers lots of advice and guidance before the surgical procedure is performed.
In addition to providing detailed pre-op instructions, we also provide patients with some advice regarding groceries and shopping lists for recovery. Let’s consider some helpful items that you should have ready before you undergo a plastic surgery procedure.
Pain Medication and Filling Prescriptions
Before undergoing plastic surgery, you will likely be prescribed some pain killers of some kind. We recommend filling these prescriptions ahead of time. It’s also important that you pick up some recommended over-the-counter pain relievers to use once the pain of the first few days of recovery subsides. Always use these pain relievers as directed, never exceeding dosages as noted by the instructions.
First Aid Supplies and Toiletries
It’s a good idea to to have first aid supplies and other common toiletries handy as you will be changing surgical dressings for the next week or few weeks. Surgical gauze, sterile pads, surgical tape, bandages, and so forth are all very helpful and recommended. It may also be a good idea to have sanitary wipes, cotton balls, and other items handy if your plastic surgeon recommends it.
Garments for Surgical Recovery
Many times patients will be told to purchase a compression garment to help with surgical recovery. These undergarments are made from breathable materials that help brace around the surgical site. They offer comfort and support while you are healing, and can make the recovery process easier on you.
In addition to compression garments, patients should consider purchasing some loose-fitting clothing to wear as they heal if they do not have any such clothes already.
Food Items for the Healing Process
While you’re recovering from surgery, it’s a good idea to have generally healthy foods on hand that are easy to prepare and simple to eat. We recommend picking up the following groceries to munch on during the first couple of days of healing:
- Yogurt
- Saltines
- Oatmeal
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Nuts
- Cottage cheese
- Applesauce
- Prepared pudding and gelatin cups
- Popsicles
- Low-sodium soups
- Whole grains
- Lean meats
- Fish
Save a big, indulgent meal as a treat for making full recovery.
Beverages to Stock Up On
Water should be your primary source of hydration after your surgery. If you do want to vary your beverages, you can also pick up the following:
- Sports drinks
- Natural fruit juices
- Ginger ale
- Clear soft drinks
While having that big, indulgent post-healing meal be noted above, you can also have a celebratory cocktail.
Stay Amused and Entertained
While you will be resting at home for some time, you can entertain yourself while helping your body heal. Consider picking up a book, movie, or some albums you’ve been meaning to catch up with. If physical media isn’t your cup of tea, consider buying an e-book, catching up on some podcasts, streaming some music on Pandora or Spotify, or binge-watching that show your friends have been gushing about.
Use this start of a new you as a chance to catch up on entertainment you’ve missed or been wanting to get to.
Contact Frisco Plastic Surgery & MedSpa
For more information about preparing for cosmetic surgery and making sure you recovery quickly and fully, we encourage you to contact the team at Frisco Plastic Surgery & MedSpa. We’re here to offer assistance and insight into all phases of the surgical treatment process.
