The recovery period is a crucial part of the cosmetic surgery journey and the correct advice can contribute significantly to the overall success of your procedure. Although there is much information available online on how best to prepare for your recovery, there are some aspects that you may not have taken into account. Mr Juling Ong will always provide comprehensive aftercare advice and is available throughout your recovery period to answer any queries.

Swelling after facial surgery:

 Swelling is the most common side effect of any surgical procedure and one of the first signs of the normal healing process. After a facelift or neck lift, you will typically experience the peak of swelling a few days after your operation and the face and neck can feel very tight. It may be difficult to open your mouth,  turn your head fully and smile fully. This can often be concerning, but it is normal.

It’s important to avoid any extreme movements of the face, neck or mouth in the immediate period after facial surgery. Keeping your head elevated at all times, particularly when you’re sleeping, is key as this will help optimise blood flow to your face, improve healing and will relieve some of the pressure.

Posture after a tummy tuck:

Most tummy tuck patients are aware that there should be no heavy lifting after an abdominoplasty, but they may not expect to have a slightly hunched over posture in the days following their operation. This is a normal and protective response of your body to abdominal surgery. It is important you do not force yourself to stand up straight as that can strain the incisions and any muscle repair that has been performed.

As the swelling subsides and the muscles and skin start to stretch out, you’ll be able to stand normally. In fact, many patients adopt an improved posture once they are fully recovered as the core muscles have been strengthened and stabilised as well as being more confident in the shape of their abdomen.

Sensation after breast surgery:

Many women worry that they will lose feeling in their breasts or nipples following a breast augmentation, reduction or lift. Numbness is a common side effect of any surgical procedure as delicate nerve connections are disrupted by incisions or manipulation of the tissue.

For most patients this is temporary – one study found that only 2% of women reported permanent loss of sensation after a breast augmentation. However, one side effect of breast surgery that women often don’t expect is hypersensitivity. And, as the body heals and nerve connections are re-established, you can also experience itching, burning and even sharp twinges and this can take a few months to fully subside.

Post-surgery blues:

One aspect of the cosmetic surgery recovery process that you may not have planned for is the emotional toll. It is very common for patients recovering from surgery to experience changes to their mood including lethargy, brain fog, emotional lows, and irritability. Causes can include the effect of a general anaesthetic and post-operative pain medication and your altered sleep and digestive patterns. The enforced rest period after surgery can also be a time for reflection.

Cosmetic surgery also differs from other surgical procedures as your appearance may be significantly altered. Even though these changes are planned and welcome, this can take some time to accept. The good news is that any post-surgery blues should be temporary and resolve itself in the weeks after your procedure.

For more advice on the recovery process, call 020 7927 6528 to arrange a consultation with Mr Juling Ong.