Caring for yourself after cosmetic surgery
You spent months, maybe even years, contemplating
and anticipating cosmetic surgery. You read
the articles, pored over the books, interrogated
friends and interviewed plastic surgeons. You
made the choice and had the surgery. Ahead is
recovery -- a few days or a few weeks, depending
on the surgery you had. What's next?
Your first priority should be your health.
After investing your resources in this life
experience, you want to reap the rewards. Carefully
follow all the instructions your physician gave
you. Give your body every chance to do its job
-- healing. The universal rule for cosmetic
surgery patients is to "take it easy"
-- lots of rest, lots of liquids, no strenuous
exercise, and no heavy lifting. If you had facial
surgery, keep your head elevated. At the first
sign of infection, call your surgeon.
While you're healing, you have time on your
hands. Beyond peering compulsively in the mirror
every time you pass it, what else is there to
do? Until some of the bruising and swelling
subsides, you probably aren't going to want
to go out, except for your follow-up appointments.
If you normally lead a high-speed life, time
seems to stand still. Books and videos may lose
their appeal, especially if you had eye surgery.
Under the circumstances, it's not uncommon to
feel a little blue.
Be constructive. This is a good time to enjoy
relaxation tapes, take language lessons, or
get started on your holiday card list. Talk
to your doctor about camouflage
make-up and creative ways to cover incisions.
Some people even take photos of themselves throughout
the healing process so they have a record of
how far they've come. The important thing is
to keep yourself occupied and excited about
your new and improving appearance.
Be patient. You'll soon be back to your old
routines, feeling refreshed and confident about
your new look.
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