Post-Op Perfection: 5 Essential Tips for a Flawless Recovery After Plastic Surgery in Korea

Master the Golden Rule: The Hot and Cold Compress Transition

Timing is everything in recovery. You must strictly adhere to the schedule for cold and hot compresses to effectively manage swelling and bruising.

•  Cold Compress (First 48–72 hours): This is crucial for the first three days. Focus on reducing acute swelling and bleeding by constricting blood vessels. Gently apply an ice pack (wrapped in a towel) primarily around the area surrounding the surgical site, not directly on the incision.

•  Hot Compress (After 3–5 days): Once the acute swelling subsides, switch to warm compresses. This promotes blood and lymphatic circulation, significantly speeding up the absorption of residual swelling and bruising.

2️⃣ Diet Down Swelling: Embrace Low-Sodium and Natural Diuretics

Your diet directly impacts your body's fluid balance and recovery speed.

•  Keep Sodium OUT: Salty foods like stews, ramen, and heavily seasoned dishes cause water retention and worsen swelling. Maintaining a low-sodium diet is paramount during the recovery period.

• Swelling-Busting Foods: Pumpkin juice is a well-known natural diuretic. Enzymes like Bromelain (found in pineapple) are also highly recommended for reducing inflammation and aiding swelling absorption.

•  Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins and ensures optimal overall recovery.

3️⃣ The Science of Position: Keep the Surgical Site 'Above the Heart'

This is the simplest yet most powerful way to manage swelling, using the principle of gravity.

• While Sleeping: If you've had facial or eye surgery, use 2–3 pillows to keep your head elevated above your heart throughout the night, allowing swelling to drain effectively.

•  Daily Posture: For chest or lower body surgeries, make sure the surgical area remains at a higher position than your heart while sitting or lying down.

4️⃣ The Importance of Gentle Movement: Don't Skip Your 'Walks'

Complete bed rest is not always the best strategy. While strenuous exercise must be avoided, light activity promotes blood circulation, which speeds up recovery.

• Take a Walk: As soon as the initial pain subsides, start taking slow walks indoors or outdoors. This gentle movement significantly boosts lymphatic circulation, crucial for flushing out swelling.

•  Gentle Stretching: Perform light stretches for your neck, shoulders, and limbs, ensuring no strain is put on the surgical area.

5️⃣ Scar Management Starts Now: Sun Protection and Consistency

Scar care is the final stage that determines the aesthetic outcome.

• Sun Protection is NON-Negotiable: New scar tissue is highly susceptible to UV damage, which can lead to hyperpigmentation (darkening). Always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen or keep the scar covered when going outside.

•  Use Professional Products: Following your medical team's instructions, consistently use scar ointments or silicone scar sheets/tapes after the stitches are removed. This helps flatten the scar and prevents it from widening or becoming hypertrophic.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Post-Op Recovery 

Q1. When does swelling peak and when does it start to subside?

A: Swelling typically peaks on the 2nd to 3rd day after surgery. It usually starts to dramatically subside from the 7th day. The majority of the swelling (about 70–80%) goes down within 2–3 weeks, but residual, subtle swelling may take 3 to 6 months to fully resolve, depending on the procedure.

Q2. When can I wash my face and apply makeup?

A: Avoid getting the surgical site wet until the stitches are removed.

• Washing Face: Gentle washing is possible the day after stitches are removed (usually 5–7 days post-op).

• Makeup: Makeup can be applied to areas away from the incision immediately, but direct application over the surgical incision or scar area should only begin 10 days to 2 weeks post-op, after your surgeon confirms it is safe.

Q3. Is drinking alcohol and smoking really prohibited? For how long?

A: Yes, they are strictly prohibited.

• Alcohol causes vasodilation, worsening swelling and increasing the risk of inflammation and infection.

• Smoking (Nicotine) constricts blood vessels, hindering blood flow and oxygen supply to the surgical site, which severely delays wound healing and can lead to complications like necrosis.

• Recommended Period: You must abstain from alcohol and smoking for at least one month (4 weeks) before and after the surgery for the best outcome.

Q4. When can I resume exercise?

A: You must gradually increase activity based on your recovery stage.

• Weeks 1–2: Only light walking is permitted. Avoid heavy lifting or any activity that raises your heart rate significantly.

• Weeks 2–4: You may begin light cardio (brisk walking, gentle yoga/stretching), ensuring no strain is put on the surgical area.

• After 1 Month: You can gradually return to more strenuous activities, but it is always best to consult with your surgeon first, especially for facial contouring or breast surgeries.

Q5. When is the best time to start using scar ointment?

A: Scar ointments or silicone sheets are most effective once the stitches are removed and the wound has completely closed (typically around 10 days to 2 weeks post-op). Consistency in applying the product daily is key to minimizing the final appearance of the scar.

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