Most surgical procedures entail a period of downtime that can be restrictive and frustrating. However, there are certain measures that you can take to speed up your recovery and get back to your everyday life. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of five tips that will help you bounce back faster after any surgical procedure.
1) Choose Your Surgeon Wisely
First and foremost, before opting for surgery, it’s essential to do your research and find a surgeon who prioritizes the post-surgical recovery process. Certain surgeons use techniques and technologies that minimize scarring and help the body heal faster. In contrast, other surgeons may rely on older methods that can result in a more extended recovery period. This all depends on what kind of surgeon you are looking for, for example, if you are needing to choose a neurosurgeon like dr timothy steel it’s important to research the various options available to you before such a big operation.
Undergoing surgery is no small feat. there are lots of things to consider in a short space of time that may make you overwhelmed or stressed. For many of us, our main priority is to be ready and back on our feet as soon as possible, but finding the right person and specialization for the job is the fastest way to get there. Spend a little time researching and planning; do you need a general surgeon, neurosurgeon, thoracic surgeon, orthopedic surgeon, etc. And find out who the best person in that particular field in your area is.
For example, a facelift is a popular cosmetic surgery in London that, when performed by skilled and experienced plastic surgeons, leaves behind minimal scars that are inconspicuous as they are hidden by the natural contours of the face, such as behind the ear. As a result, patients are able to carry on their regular routine faster without feeling self-conscious of their scars.
2) Clean Your Incision Properly
It’s important to follow the after-care instructions that are given to you by your surgeon. In particular, following instructions on keeping the site of your incision clean will help keep infections at bay and minimize any pain or discomfort in the area.
In most cases, all you will need to do is replace your dressing after gently cleaning it with soap and water and patting it dry. However, most patients make the mistake of scrubbing the area too harshly or using alcohol and peroxide to keep the incisions free of germs. Such efforts will only postpone the recovery period as it disrupts the body’s natural healing process.
3) Eat a Healthy Diet
There are some key food groups that are known to promote healing and will therefore contribute towards a smooth post-surgical recovery. The first is foods with antioxidants that are found in abundance in most types of berries. Antioxidants stimulate collagen production, which in turn helps regenerate the skin’s tissue, thus helping incisions heal faster.
Secondly, consuming different types of vitamins. For example, dark leafy greens are a good source of vitamins that will help boost the body’s energy levels that can be weakened after surgery. Finally, patients are recommended to consume healthy fats such as avocados, fish, and nuts, as such foods strengthen the body’s immune system.
4) Get Plenty of Rest
The body’s healing process is at its most active while you sleep. Therefore, when you feel tired, it’s a sign that your body needs to recuperate both physically and mentally. Many surgeries require a 24-48 hours period of bed rest, while this may be longer for more invasive procedures.
However, even after this period, you may still feel sluggish as your body slowly readjusts to everyday life. You must listen to your body and take naps when you feel the need to do so. Rushing into your normal routine while sacrificing the rest your body is craving will likely prolong your recovery period.
5) Get Moving
After the instructed period of bed rest, it’s important to introduce exercise back into your life gradually. Staying in bed and remaining inactive for too long when you no longer need to do so can jeopardize your recovery by triggering blood clots and weakening your muscles.
To reintroduce exercise into your life safely, you should first start with a routine walk and light stretches the first few days after surgery. Afterward, you can elevate the intensity of your exercises, for example, by going for a jog.
Your doctor should advise when you can resume a completely normal exercise routine which might include more strenuous activities such as lifting weights. You must stick to this timeline so that you don’t injure yourself and prolong your recovery. Click here to learn more.
While surgery will improve the quality of your life, in the long run, it can also set you back for a short period. However, following the five tips we have laid out above can help you bounce back faster and ensure that the setback is as quick as possible.
