How to Reduce Pain After Cosmetic Surgery
Here at Millennium Medical, we always do our best to improve the patient's healing experience. Whether a patient undergoes a facelift to reduce wrinkles and lines or breast augmentation surgery to improve the curves and contours of their frame, we make sure that our patients recover properly and are well taken care of.
Since post-surgical pain is often on a lot of people's minds before they undergo a procedure, we want to look a the topic of pain reduction and provide some insight into the healing process.
Pain and Discomfort Are Common But Can Be Reduced
Feeling pain after undergoing a surgical procedure is common, so there is no need to worry if you feel sore or uncomfortable after treatment. Undue pain and discomfort is a sign of a major problem, however, and should be brought to the attention of your surgeon as soon as possible.
With this in mind, patients should know that the severity of pain they experience and its overall duration can be reduced in a number of ways. Here are some tips for pain reduction to keep in mind.
Take Pain Relievers as Needed
Your surgeon will very often prescribe you some form of pain killer. Be sure to take this medication as directed and to not exceed the recommended dosage. Over-the-counter medications can be used as needed if you continue to feel discomfort once prescription medication has run out as pain will usually be very mild by that time.
Get a Lot of Rest
Resting may not seem as potent as pain medication, but it is a very important part of getting better. Ample rest allows your body to commit itself to the healing and recovery process, and by getting a lot of rest early after surgery, your healing experience is generally improved.
Stay Hydrated as You Heal
Drinking a good amount of water each day is ideal for a number of reasons, and it's just as essential a part of the healing process. Be sure to stay well hydrated as you recover from surgery since this can make a major difference.
Wear Your Compression Garment as Directed
After certain body contouring surgeries such as tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) and breast augmentation, patients will often be instructed to wear a compression garment. This is an undergarment that is designed to support the part of the body that has been operated on in those early days (or weeks) of healing.
The compression garment will help reduce the amount of swelling that is experienced and also offers a sense of psychological comfort. Both of these help reduce stress and offer peace of mind that makes a smooth recovery process possible.
Follow Your Post-Operative Instructions to the Letter
The above tips are just the basics when it comes to reducing pain. Patients will be provided with detailed instructions for post-operative care. These instructions need to be followed closely as they help ensure the best possible conditions for reducing pain and preventing complications.
Learn More About Cosmetic Surgery Options
For more tips about recovering from a surgical procedure and improving your overall healing experience, be sure to contact our cosmetic surgery center today. Dr. Rassael will work closely with you to ensure that you heal quickly and experience as few hardships as possible.