Recovery Post-Plastic Surgery: Plan Ahead

What sort of recovery should you expect after a cosmetic surgery procedure?

First, ask your doctor how long you should expect to be in pain. Most procedures take a few days to a week for pain to subside. This is a general guideline. Every person experiences pain and recovers a bit differently.

Second, you will want to know how soon you can get back to life responsibilities. These activities would include returning to work, getting groceries and taking the kids to school. Most people can return to these activities after one week. See how you feel after finishing your prescribed pain medication.

Third, you may wonder how long to wait before getting back to an active lifestyle. You should be able to resume light exercise after four weeks. Wait six weeks or more before resuming weight training and greater activity.

Enlist family or friends to help manage younger children after surgery. You have to be especially careful when surgery involves muscles, like tummy tucks and breast surgery. Be cautious.

When you're ready to get frisky, remember your post-op instructions and be aware of your mobility. Don't engage in sexual positions that irritate the surgery site.

You may choose to take time off work and social activities for treatments that redden the skin. Makeup will cover up some redness when the skin has healed.

Arnica can help with bruising and swelling. Ice and elevation ease recovery. Avoid heat to eliminate excessive discomfort.

Most importantly, follow your physician's instructions very closely. Those post-op instructions are designed for healing without complications.

Listen in as Dr. Robert Cohen discusses what to expect when recovering from cosmetic surgery procedures.