How to Manage Post-op Swelling After Surgery

How to Manage Post-op Swelling After Surgery

Managing the swelling of your body is one of the most important things to do when it comes to plastic surgery. Some swelling does go away naturally, but bear in mind that plastic surgery can cause swelling that last for weeks, months and some that stays permanently – not all swelling goes away naturally without a good care!

Why does it swell after surgery?

1. The anesthetics!

They cause dilation of the blood vessels and make them ‘leaky’ so the amount of fluid increases around the surgery area.

Increased fluid in the surrounding tissue causes that area to 

swell.

2. The trauma incurred to the tissues (surgery area)!

The disturbed area swells up due to the trauma to the tissues.  

What can I do to minimize swelling before the surgery?

• Low-sodium diet prior, during, post your surgery can help reduce swelling.
• Avoid eating junk food which contains much salt and harmful additives!
• Remember to add vitamins! Eat a lot of vegetables and fruits, or take supplements.
• Drink at least 1L of water everyday, but avoid drinking water 1 day before.
• Don’t drink any fluid on the day of the surgery!

What should I do after my surgery?

• You should not irritate the area. Rest and protect the surgery area.
• Elevate the surgery area on pillows. Keep it above the level of your heart.
• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent swelling by dehydration. Be careful of using straw if you had surgery on you face.
• Keep the surgery area cool. Avoid any activities that can cause infection or unwanted opening of the surgery area.
• Of course, do not smoke! Also, avoid drinking alcoholic beverages.

How should I manage swelling in the long term?

• Avoid staying in one position or not moving for more than 1-2 hours. Go for a light walk when possible.
• Drink pumpkin juice / extract in the morning and the evening. Ginger tea can also help reduce swelling. Add a teaspoon of natural honey to add a flavor.
• Ice massage on the area can help remove swelling faster. Start ice massage a day or two after the surgery.
• Perform a gentle lymph massage, avoiding the surgery area. It helps the fluid in the lymphatic system helps remove waste and toxins from the bodily tissues.
• Avoid salty food, drink a lot of water, but avoid drinking water after 6PM! Drinking much water later in the day can make your body swell at night.