6 Common Post-Procedure Mistakes That Can Affect Your Recovery

BACK TO BLOG

Recovering after a cosmetic procedure is essential for optimal results. Minor mistakes when recovering can interfere with healing, lead to complications, and compromise outcomes. While every patient receives specific instructions from their surgeon, some mistakes are surprisingly common. 

Common cosmetic surgeries include breast implant surgery, breast reduction, facelift surgery, tummy tuck, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, and more. These help you regain a more youthful appearance. Nonsurgical procedures include skin treatments, laser resurfacing, laser hair removal, and injectables helping you refine your look for a more youthful appearance. Here are six post-procedure mistakes to avoid to ensure a smooth and safe recovery.

Wearing Sunglasses Too Soon After Rhinoplasty

Although sunglasses are lightweight, wearing sunglasses a few days after a rhinoplasty can affect bone and tissue alignment. This can lead to prolonged swelling or alter the final surgical results. Patients should avoid wearing sunglasses or anything that rests on the nose for about four weeks unless advised by their surgeon.

Flying Too Soon After Liposuction or Body Contouring Procedures

Air travel increases the risk of blood clots following surgery when the body is already in a pro-inflammatory state. Flying within a week of procedures like liposuction or other body contouring surgeries can heighten the chance of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Patients should wait at least one to two weeks before traveling, depending on the procedure and their personal risk factors, and should follow any recommended precautions, such as wearing compression garments or taking preventive medications.

Getting Facials or Massages Right After Botox

Facial treatments such as massages or deep-cleansing facials after Botox injections can interfere with the placement of the product. Manipulating the treated areas too early can cause Botox to migrate, leading to uneven results or muscle weakness in unintended areas. Most providers recommend avoiding facial treatments for at least 24 to 48 hours post-injection to ensure the product remains properly localized. 

Lifting Heavy Objects After Breast Augmentation

Patients who undergo breast augmentation are often advised to avoid lifting objects over 5 to 10 pounds during the initial healing period. Straining the chest muscles can shift implants or increase the risk of bleeding and swelling. Although some surgeons may allow light activity within a few days, most recommend avoiding strenuous lifting and upper body workouts for several weeks to protect surgical results and minimize complications.

Returning to Exercise Too Early

Feeling physically ready to exercise does not mean that internal tissues have healed. Returning to workouts too soon after your cosmetic surgery procedure can cause problems such as increased swelling, wound breakdown, or delayed healing. Most cosmetic surgeons recommend avoiding exercise for two to six weeks, depending on the procedure.

Ignoring Signs of Infection or Other Complications

Redness, warmth, increasing pain, or drainage from incisions after plastic surgery are signs that should not be ignored. Assuming that all swelling or discomfort is normal after surgical procedures can delay necessary treatment and lead to more serious complications. Patients should report any concerning symptoms to their surgeon promptly rather than waiting to see if they improve on their own.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are considering cosmetic surgery or have questions about recovery, Dr. Arko Demianczuk and his team are here to help. If you are located in Surrey or Vancouver, BC, complete our online contact form today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced surgical team offers advanced cosmetic surgery, reconstructive surgery, and medical procedures designed to your needs. Whether you want to restore your pre-pregnancy body or enhance a youthful appearance we are happy to help you achieve your cosmetic goals.