Why You Should Plan Your Aftercare Before Surgery.

4th June 2019

If you’re considering a cosmetic procedure, you’ll probably put a lot of thought into who to choose as your surgeon. It is likely that you’ll do your research thoroughly and ask all the right questions. If you’re doing things properly you will seek a one to one consultation with your surgeon Mr Banwell, look for before and after photos, read testimonials (eg. On RealSelf.com) and check your surgeon’s credentials and professional memberships.

And that is all as it should be. But will you give as much attention to what comes after your surgical procedure?

If the answer to that question is no then you really SHOULD because the correct aftercare could make all the difference to the success of your cosmetic surgery but not everyone gives it as much attention as it deserves.

The importance of good aftercare

We always tell our patients that they should think about their aftercare before having surgery because it can make a big difference to the outcome and because you need to plan ahead to make sure you give yourself the best chance of recovery.

Here are some things to think about. Not all of these will be appropriate for every procedure, of course, but your cosmetic surgeon, Mr Banwell, will be able to provide the precise details for your chosen procedure.

1. Stay out of the sun
There are several reason for this. Incisions made in the skin will lead to scarring and exposing scars to direct sun makes it more difficult for the skin to heal properly. If you expose scars to the sun before they are completely healed you are likely to develop more noticeable scars. The sun’s UV rays can penetrate and irritate already irritated skin. This may worsen swelling and lead to inflammation. Direct sunlight may also lead to discolouration around the incision site which could result in lasting redness. The sun doesn’t just damage the surface of the skin but it also affects the tissues at a deeper level. If you have undergone a procedure to smooth lines and wrinkles, you should avoid exposing your skin to further sun damage or you may need further surgery. After surgery stay out of the sun and if you do go outside, protect your skin using a hat or scarf.

2. Drink water
All of us know about the importance of staying well-hydrated but this is particularly important after surgery when your body is healing. Aim to drink six to eight glasses of water a day. This is a good habit to maintain long after surgery as it can help your skin to remain looking healthier and more youthful.

3. Avoid baths
Much as you may love a long soak in a hot tub, you should avoid this immediately after surgery as the wound area needs to be kept dry. Mr Banwell and his team will advise you when it is safe for you to shower and when you can start to have baths again.

4. Don’t hit the gym hard
You are unlikely to want to exercise hard immediately after surgery but as you start to feel better the temptation can be to dash back to the gym. Resist this temptation. Some gentle exercise is normally fine in the first couple of weeks but avoid strenuous exercise until your body has healed and your energy returned; most importantly make sure you follow Mr Banwell’s instructions regarding exercise in the post-operative period.

5. Rest and recuperate
In our fast-paced, hectic lives we may feel under pressure to rush back to our normal routine before we are completely ready. Cosmetic surgery is still surgery and, depending on the procedure you have had, you are likely to feel tired, sore and swollen. Plan ahead so you can take time out to recover fully. Organise childcare and schedule time off work. By resting now, you will help to ensure the best possible results from your surgical procedure.

Talk to us about the best forms of aftercare for the procedure you’re considering – we are here to help! Please phone 01342 330302 or email help@paulebanwell.com

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