Plastic Surgery Recovery Tips

By Millicent Odunze, M.D., About.com GuideAugust 6, 2011

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The recovery period after any plastic surgery procedure is just as important as the procedure. I always explain to my patients that when my work has finished, that's when their work begins! There's a partnership between me and my patients that exists to obtain the best possible outcome after plastic surgery.

In order to optimize your final result, it is absolutely essential that you follow two important rules:

You must follow your plastic surgeon's instructions. This will keep you from performing any action that may be detrimental to your healing process.
It is also important that you keep your scheduled follow-up appointments after surgery. Most times, everything goes smoothly after surgery. Even though you may be feeling fantastic after your plastic surgery procedure, there are nuances your plastic surgeon has been trained to notice. A small problem can become a big problem if it's not addressed in its early stages. And often, small problems can be completely resolved if caught early enough.

While there are many similarities between recovery from say, breast surgery such as breast reduction or breast augmentation, and body contouring surgery such as liposuction or tummy tuck surgery, there are also important differences in how to take care of yourself after each of these procedures. Below are some helpful recovery tips after various plastic surgery procedures. Please remember these are general guidelines. Your plastic surgeon may have particular instructions she'd like you to follow.