There’s nothing like slipping into a slinky dress and basking in the final results of a recent body contouring procedure. Whether you’ve slimmed down with a tummy tuck or perked up with a breast lift, of course you’ll want the results to last as long as possible. The great news is that the hard part is over, and maintenance isn’t super complicated. The best and simplest way to ensure long-lasting results is to practice healthy habits after surgery. Take a look below at the following 6 simple tips for maintaining your cosmetic surgery results.
#1. Follow your doctor’s instructions
Remember, your cosmetic surgeon wants your results to last as long as you do.
Following post-surgery instructions is the best way to lower the risk of complications, promote faster healing, and achieve optimal results. Whether your doctor recommends a compression bra after breast augmentation or a few days of rest following liposuction, you’ll want to follow all post-op instructions.
#2. Give up smoking for good
Not only do smokers have a higher rate of post-op infection, but they also face longer healing times and more issues with scarring. Most doctors will require you to stop smoking for at least two to three weeks prior to your cosmetic surgery because smoking interferes with the body’s ability to heal. If you’ve already quit smoking to have a facelift, a tummy tuck, or any other cosmetic procedure, take the opportunity to leave that unhealthy habit behind for good. Otherwise, you’re taking a big risk with your health and the longevity of your cosmetic surgery results.
#3. Get serious about sun protection
You probably know that you need to avoid the sun following a chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or other procedures that leave your skin raw and irritated for a few days. But it’s also important to protect your skin from sun exposure after any plastic surgery because it can impact the visibility of your incision scars. Be sure to apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 even under your clothes (after your incisions have healed). Wear a wide brim hat to avoid hyperpigmentation on your face following laser skin resurfacing and other facial procedures. Even after your incisions have healed beautifully, you’ll want to stay serious about sun protection to maintain your results and your youthful appearance.
#4. Use doctor-approved skincare
Why bother spending money on a top-notch cosmetic surgeon only to undermine the results with lesser-quality skincare products? On that same note, don’t assume that just because something costs more, it will provide better results. Everyone’s skin is different, and what works great for your best friend may not be right for you. Proper skincare is an important factor when it comes to maintaining the results of your cosmetic procedures, and your doctor is the best resource for skincare recommendations.
#5. Stay hydrated
Your body uses water in all cells, all organs, and all tissues. Water aids in digestion, the removal of waste, and the optimal functioning of various systems throughout your body. Water is of vital importance to your body, and even low levels of dehydration impact both your inner health and your outer beauty. Drinking plenty of water and eating foods that contain water can help you stay hydrated so your whole body functions efficiently. After surgery of any kind, including cosmetic surgery, maintaining proper levels of hydration can significantly impact your healing process and optimize your results.
#6. Eat nutritious foods and maintain a healthy fitness level
Your overall health is one of the greatest indicators of how long you’ll be able to maintain your cosmetic surgery results. And, of course, diet and exercise are key factors in your health. Whether you’ve had a Mommy Makeover, a Brazilian Butt Lift, or other body contouring procedures, the better you are at maintaining healthy habits after surgery, the longer you’ll be able to enjoy the results. Those of you who are “gym fiends” and “exercise enthusiasts” may have trouble slowing down, but it’s equally important not to go full-throttle too soon after surgery. Follow your doctor’s recommendations before you hit the gym again.
Ready to be your most beautiful you? Call us today!
At San Diego Body Contouring, we’ve spent decades helping people just like you feel confident, beautiful, and ready for anything. We provide a range of high quality body contouring and cosmetic procedures including breast augmentation, liposuction, laser hair removal, dermal fillers, and more. Give us a call at (619) 697-1325 to schedule a consultation so we can discuss your beauty goals today!
