Visiting the plastic surgeons these days is becoming sort of a routine. Stigma is broken, and there is no more negative associations with some nips, tucks or injections. However, a few details are still getting in the way of some patients visiting their plastic surgeons for feel-better and look-better procedures.
For those who’ll break the stigma, you should keep an eye on the wound your healing after the procedure. Some regular stages after the surgery are a must and don’t worry, you’re not going crazy with all of the questions related to scarring and swelling.
Stages of Healing
Redness and swelling can vary from 3-5 days or last up to several weeks, depending on the type of surgery and the location. A couple of days swelling is a small price to pay for what could potentially be long-term confidence. To reduce redness and swelling faster, keep the area elevated and immobilized.
Also, use cold compresses. Include a lot of water and keep your body from dehydrating, which can occur after a major Surgery. You will keep your body rich with oxygen and nutrients, and the essential – facilitating the process of tissue repair. It also helps rejuvenate your skin from the inside out by flushing out toxins.
Homeopathic supplements can sometimes help. Some surgeons recommend topical creams and gels. It drastically increases circulation by stimulating white blood cell activity, thereby decreasing the amount of healing time and reducing inflammation. Your wound will go through a couple of phases.
Swelling
The first steps toward healing start right away. Blood vessels in the area of the cut begin to form cloth that keeps you from losing too much blood. White blood cells in your body move into the wound. Think of them as infection-control agents. Their job is to fight bacteria.
When you’re in the early stage after the surgery, it’s normal to see some redness and swelling. Your doctor can determine how much is Ok. Also, your wound can hurt around the area and feel a little warm. Watch out for pus cause it can be an indication of an infection. Another tip- Your pain, redness, and swelling don’t go away or getting worse. Call your doctor asap if this happens.
Rebuilding
This part of process lasts from five days to one month after your surgery. A scar starts to form on the cut. The edges will pull together, and you might see some thickening there. It’s also normal to spot some new red bumps inside your shrinking wound. You may feel a sharp pain in the wound area. This may be a sign that you’re getting sensations back in your nerves. If you’re concerned check with your doctor.
Remodeling
The wound has filled, and the new surface is formed. This final period can last from 6 months to 2 years. You’ll see some changes in your scar. It will go from looking red and thick to thinner, flatter, and whiter. Infections are rare, but they can happen. Indications are fever, puss, redness, delay in healing, warmth, and swelling near your wound.
