When it comes to effective cosmetic procedures, preparation and aftercare are just as important as selecting the right surgeon to perform the treatment. Depending on the type of procedure you’re having done—whether it’s surgical or nonsurgical—there are certain things you can do before and after surgery to make the recovery process a little easier and ensure optimal results. The best way to prepare for your cosmetic procedure is to schedule a consultation with an experienced facial plastic surgeon to discuss all of your options and what to expect during and after the procedure. Keep reading for some useful cosmetic surgery tips for maintaining results.

Cosmetic Surgery Tips

Cosmetic surgery is very popular around this time of year because people are gearing up for the warm weather and beach outings. Plastic surgery recovery depends largely on how well you take care of yourself before and after the procedure. If you’re thinking about sprucing up your appearance this summer, then consider these cosmetic surgery tips.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle is something you should be striving for regardless of whether you’re about to undergo a cosmetic procedure. However, if you’re thinking of having work done in the near future, it’s important to prepare your body for it well in advance. Quit smoking, refrain from drinking alcohol as much as possible, and start leading a healthy lifestyle complete with exercise and nutritious meals. Living a healthy lifestyle before and after your cosmetic procedure could actually help speed up the recovery process and make it more tolerable. And once you start on this trajectory, you’ll be more inclined and motivated to continue the journey on your own terms.

Follow Your Doctor’s Aftercare Instructions

Different types of cosmetic procedures require specific aftercare. During your initial consultation, be sure to ask your doctor about what you can expect during the recovery period based on the procedure you’re getting done. They should take the time to examine your current physical condition to ensure you’re eligible, explain all of the potential risks, and review all of the typical aftercare requirements with you so that you know what to expect. Don’t hesitate to bring up any concerns or questions you might have because this is the perfect time to address them. Most nonsurgical aftercare instructions are fairly simple and require very little aftercare. When it comes to invasive cosmetic procedures like rhinoplasty, however, your doctor will provide you with very specific aftercare instructions that you should follow very closely.

Maintain a Proper Skincare Routine

Maintaining a proper skincare routine can help prevent the development of wrinkles, fine lines, and crows’ feet over time. Caring for your skin by cleansing and moisturizing on a daily basis can actually help prevent permanent scarring. While temporary scarring is normal and a necessary part of the healing process, taking excellent care of your skin can actually diminish the chances of those scars becoming permanent. Depending on the type of treatment you get, your facial plastic surgeon can make some useful suggestions on how to take care of your skin before and after treatment as well as which products to use. Skincare after plastic surgery is particularly important because it can help prevent permanent scarring, reduce redness, and relieve any discomfort you may experience.

Keep a Strict Fitness Schedule

Staying fit and improving your physical stamina strengthens your body’s ability to heal itself, which is essential for post-operative and post-treatment recovery. External treatments like ointments and creams are effective at reducing the appearance of scars, but they’re even stronger when combined with the body’s natural healing process. Exercise is key to maintaining positive facial and body contouring results, but keep in mind that some post-operative recovery requirements might prevent you from returning to the gym immediately following your procedure. Don’t be discouraged by this. Communicate with your doctor so that they can advise you when it’s safe to slowly resume your normal exercise routine.

Use Sun Protection

Sun protection is an imperative component in maintaining healthy skin and preventing illness. Most skin moisturizers contain a minimum SPF 15 or 30. Overexposure to the harmful UV rays of the sun is one of the leading causes of premature aging and the development of wrinkles. If you’re planning on having a lot of fun in the sun this summer, then be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen and sun protective clothing like hats and breathable materials.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration isn’t just an important part of the healing process; it’s also essential for maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle and long-term results from your procedure. Staying hydrated keeps your skin looking younger, prevents the formation of premature wrinkles, and can even help boost your metabolism. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day or as recommended by your doctor. Sometimes, the amount of water you need depends on your physical size.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Similar to water, the amount of sleep your body needs depends on a number of factors including your age and physical conditions. Although the standard recommended amount of sleep is eight hours every night, some people might actually require a little more or less than that. Talk to your doctor about your sleeping habits to find out what would work best for you.

Don’t Be Discouraged by the Initial Results

It’s common for patients to experience some disappointment with their initial post-cosmetic procedure results. After all, it can take some time to get used to the change in your appearance, whether it’s mild or drastic. If you’re still not completely satisfied with the results after a few weeks of recovery, then talk to your doctor about a revision procedure. During your follow up appointment, your doctor will examine the results anyway and explain your options to you.

More Cosmetic Surgery Tips and Advice Available

Dr. Andres Gantous at Toronto Facial Plastic Surgery is one of the leading facial plastic surgeons in the world. With over 20 years of experience working in the field and performing countless procedures, he’s served as the keynote speaker at many international and domestic facial plastic surgery conferences. To schedule a consultation at our clinic in Toronto, please contact us today!