Prepare for Surgery to Optimize Your Plastic Surgery Results

Ways to Optimize Your Plastic Surgery Results

Congratulations! You've made the empowering decision to pour into yourself and undergo plastic surgery. 

As you anticipate and plan for your upcoming cosmetic procedure, you're likely focused on the exciting results ahead. 

Did you know that getting your body and mind ready can help you recover better? It can also improve end results.

This proactive approach, sometimes called "prehabilitation,”  involves taking simple yet impactful steps to optimize your physical and mental state. 

Let's explore four key ways to set yourself up for the best possible outcome.

1. Fuel Your Body With Smart Nutrition & Hydration

Surgery and the recovery process are a lot like running a marathon. Your body is working hard around the clock to heal, and needs fuel to do so. 

Fuel comes in the way of good nutrition, adequate calories, and hydration.

A strong foundation means nourishing your body before surgery, giving you a head start towards better results. 

Here are some nutrition tips that can make a difference in how well your body recovers:

• Focus on a balanced diet rich in protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. 
• Don't forget to hydrate consistently with plenty of water. 
• Avoid processed foods and added sugars, including those in beverages.
• Limit unhealthy fats and excessive sodium before and after surgery. 

Think of this as a season of more—more nourishment (specifically, protein and fiber), more rest,  and more hydration. This small window of time sets the course for long-term health and healing for your best result. 

2. Gently Build a Solid Physical Foundation

Gentle exercise and rest also play a big role in your healing and results. As you now know, your body is active during surgery and recovery. 

Building muscle and improving heart health before surgery sets your body up for a smoother recovery and better results. 

The good news is your routine doesn't need to include intense workouts. Consistent, low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or cycling support your cardiovascular health, too.

Incorporating gentle core exercises into your routine prior to surgery can build strength and aid stability, especially important after abdominal procedures like a tummy tuck.

Light strength training and flexibility exercises can also contribute to a more comfortable recovery and improve results.  

Not sure how to start an exercise routine? Sometimes that's the hardest part. 

Group classes and one-on-one sessions with a personal trainer are a great first step, providing structure, community, and support as you learn what works best for you and your body.

3. Nurture Your Mental & Emotional Well-being

In many cases, the decision to have plastic surgery is stretched and considered over a long period.

When the time finally comes, and you begin preparing for cosmetic surgery, it can bring a mix of emotions—excitement, anxiety, guilt, and uncertainty (all completely normal!). 

As you get ready for your big day, it’s important to go in mentally prepared with realistic expectations.

Waiting for Results

You’ll likely find that healing isn’t linear and no two recoveries are the same.

If your results aren’t developing exactly like that social media influencer, that’s because everyone’s journey, anatomy, and procedure are different!

Many plastic surgery procedure results take a year to develop, meaning what you see in the mirror on day 2 (and even month 2) isn’t your true results.

Implants take time to ‘drop and fluff’ and settle into their final position. Swelling from liposuction and tummy tucks fluctuates in the first year post-op. In fact, some find it helpful to avoid the scale for the first few months after surgery as swelling can impact the number on the scale. 

Added stress and anxiety, also known as “post-op blues,” can creep in as we ebb and flow through the healing process.

You might consider writing a letter to yourself before surgery, sharing why you chose to start this journey in the first place. It can also be helpful to take a “before” photo and weekly progress photos to see all the changes your body is making.

Acknowledging and planning for the mental highs and lows in advance can help you be kind to your body as it heals. It can also improve your mental health and may give you a better perspective on all the changes your body has made.

Planning Ahead

The initial downtime of your recovery is the start of your results. The more you rest, focus on healing, and follow your surgeon’s recovery plan, the better your results will likely be. 

Be intentional about giving yourself the space and time to focus on rest and healing. Make a plan ahead of time and find someone to help with daily tasks like meals, car pools, and other duties to eliminate added stress.

Get Support

Lean on your support network and connect with others who have gone through or are going through the process in supportive, plastic surgery communities like Bustmob.

Additionally, don’t hesitate to openly discuss any concerns with your surgical team. Many of them have been in your shoes, surgery patients preparing for surgery, and are there to help you feel comfortable and informed.

If you feel something is off, have a question, or need help, your clinical team is your go-to resource. Remember, there are no weird or wrong questions!

4. Optimize Your Lifestyle Habits for Healing

Taking care of your body pre- and post-operatively is important. Certain habits can significantly affect your body's ability to heal. 

If you smoke or vape, making an effort to quit or reduce use can help exponentially in the healing process. Nicotine hinders blood flow and increases the risk of postoperative complications.

Limiting alcohol intake and establishing a consistent sleep schedule can also support optimal recovery for better results.

By embracing these proactive steps before your plastic surgery, you're not only preparing your body for the procedure itself but also laying the groundwork for a more comfortable and successful recovery. 

Your primary care physician is an excellent resource for navigating the cutback and quitting journey. They can provide personalized guidance and support based on your health history and goals.

Always follow your surgeon and clinical team’s protocol. 

The information in this article is a general guideline and is not intended to serve as medical advice. If you’re struggling with mental or physical health, contact your healthcare provider.

During your consultation, your surgeon will walk you through your unique surgical plan, recovery protocol, and can give you individualized instructions on how to prepare your body and mind ahead of time. 

Taking these actionable steps empowers you to be an active participant in your journey towards your smoothest recovery and optimal results.