Millions of people undergo cosmetic surgery each year. These procedures help improve people’s appearances and self-images and can even have an array of physical health benefits. That being said, taking care of your skin after cosmetic surgery is crucial for optimal healing. It’s also important for maximizing and maintaining the results of your procedures. Follow the tips listed here to ensure your skin stays healthy after cosmetic surgery.
Adhere to Postoperative Instructions
First of all, the most important step you can take after cosmetic surgery is to follow all your doctor’s postoperative instructions. These instructions are tailored to your specific procedure and needs, and they’re designed to optimize the healing process. Whether you undergo liposuction, a tummy tuck, or gender affirming procedures, be sure to strictly adhere to the guidelines provided by your cosmetic surgeon.
Keep Incision Areas Clean and Dry
Caring for your wounds after cosmetic procedures is essential. Clean the incision areas as directed by Dr. Giancarlo to prevent infections. Use recommended cleansers, and clean the incision sites carefully. Avoid using harsh chemical products, exfoliants, and abrasive scrubs that could irritate the skin. Keeping the incisions dry is generally recommended as well. Don’t take sit-down baths or spend time in pools or hot tubs until your surgeon clears you to do so as those could expose your incisions to bacteria.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Be sure to maintain a healthy diet following cosmetic procedures as well. Foods that are rich in nutrients and antioxidants will help you heal while also keeping your skin healthy and glowing. They’ll help you get the best results from your cosmetic procedure, too. Eat plenty of proteins, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables for optimal cell regeneration, immunity, and skin health.
Hydrate and Moisturize
Hydration and moisturization are equally important after having a cosmetic procedure. Drinking plenty of water keeps your skin, and the rest of your body, hydrated. Water maintains your blood volume and helps to deliver nutrients throughout your body. That ensures those vital minerals and vitamins can reach your skin and keep it healthy. Staying hydrated also flushes away toxins to foster healing and maintain your body’s pH balance. It improves skin elasticity, too, so it can bounce back from surgery.
Moisturizing your skin on the outside is likewise key. Use a gentle moisturizer that doesn’t contain pore-clogging ingredients. Be sure to only use moisturizers designed for facial skin on your face. Otherwise, they could clog your pores, lead to breakouts, and destroy your skin’s delicate moisture balance. Moisturizing may help to reduce scarring as well.
Limit Sun Exposure
Shield your skin against sun exposure as much as possible after cosmetic surgery. UV rays can cause discoloration and delay the healing process. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and wear protective clothing while you’re outdoors. These measures will reduce your risks of developing skin cancer, pigmentation issues, and other problems later on, too.
Safeguarding Your Skin After Cosmetic Surgery
Maintaining healthy skin after cosmetic surgery is crucial for not only healing but also maximizing the results of your procedures. It involves a combination of healthy practices, like eating well, staying hydrated, and limiting exposure to the sun. Following your cosmetic surgeon’s post-surgical instructions for wound and scar care and attending follow-up appointments are important parts of the process as well.
