Our approach to plastic surgery involves careful consideration of a procedure during all of its phases. That means taking care to plan a surgery before, during, and after. This is what’s made us a leading choice for surgery among people in the greater Edina area. Whether it’s body contouring and cosmetic fat reduction or a facial rejuvenation surgery, we are here to help people look good and feel good.
Avoiding infection is an important part of effective surgery and great results. Let’s take a moment to consider post-op infection and what patients can do to prevent this complication from occurring.
Is Infection Likely After Surgery?
Thanks to advances in surgical techniques and practices, the risk of infection is generally low. Procedures are performed with high levels of cleanliness and modern sterilization, reducing the risk of infections for patients.
That said, there is always a risk of infection following surgery, even if it is low. Patients need to keep that in mind in the first days and weeks of recovery to ensure proper healing and no complications as they recover. The following tips below will help keep countless patients safe from post-op problems of various kinds.
Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Products
Cigars, cigarettes, and chewing tobacco increase your risk of lung disease, heart disease, and different types of cancers. In addition, they can all slow down your recovery time and increase your risk of infection.
Be sure to avoid using tobacco products in the weeks leading into your surgery. You should continue to avoid using tobacco products for the weeks after your surgery as well. This might be a convenient excuse to quit for good.
Get Rest and Avoid Strenuous Physical Exertion
Rest is crucial for proper recovery. In the first days of surgery, you’ll want to spend time resting and avoiding serious physical exertion and strain. This can make a major difference when it comes to overall healing.
With this in mind, it’s important that you take time off from work. The exact amount of time can vary from patient to patient depending on the procedure they undergo and their duties on the job, so keep that in mind.
Keep Dressings and Garments Sanitary
Surgical dressings and compression garments are meant to keep wounds covered so they can heal properly. Old dressings or unclean compression garments can potentially increase your infection risk.
Be sure to bathe properly and change surgical dressings as directed. This can help prevent infection and also keep you feeling positive as you recover from surgery.
Walk to Promote Circulation
Proper circulation is key for speedy recovery. Each day, patients should consider walking just a little for a few minutes to promote good circulation. This can prevent blood clots and a host of other issues.
Avoid Public Pools and Showers
While swimming and going to saunas can take your mind off of your troubles, these are also places where infections are highly likely. Be sure to avoid public pools, public showers, saunas, and steam rooms until your surgeon says these places are okay.
Attend Follow-up Visits as Scheduled
Several follow-up visits are scheduled in order to ensure patients heal properly and fully. Be sure to attend these follow-ups as scheduled to ensure you are healing properly. These additional visits will also be your chance to ask questions and voice concerns about your recovery. Getting answers about what’s ahead can help you moving forward.
Contact an Experienced Plastic Surgeon
For more information about facelift and other facial rejuvenation options, be sure to contact our cosmetic plastic surgery center today. We look forward to your visit and discussing these matters in greater detail.
