Rest is Paramount to Healing
When we sleep, the body produces hormones that help reduce inflammation. When we have surgery, the body naturally becomes inflamed from incisions to tissues that have been moved or trimmed. In this frame, sleep is essential to surgical recovery. We know that our patients know they should rest after surgery. So, why are we bringing this up here? Because knowing that rest is necessary for recovery is only conceptual. Here’s what it looks like in real life: going from sleeping 7 to 8 hours a night to sleeping about 10 and still needing a nap during the day. Trust us, this will not last long. We mention it because so many patients have a hard time with post-surgical fatigue and try to push themselves before their body is ready. Rest. You need it. Your body will thank you.
Nutrition is a Must
When you’re tired and sleeping more and sore and achy and maybe even a little down in the dumps, you may crave comfort foods. For most people, comfort foods are the carb-laden packaged items they ate in childhood when they didn’t feel well. As comforting as some things can be, they must be kept to a minimum. Sure, have that cup of cocoa. But don’t have it at night after also ordering fast-food for lunch and dinner. For the body to heal, it needs lean protein, healthy fat, and lots of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are abundant in fresh fruits and vegetables.
You Must Move
Surgeons encourage patients to walk around as soon as possible after various procedures. Even medically necessary procedures like hip replacement involve walking the day of surgery! Whether you are planning a facelift, breast lift, or abdominoplasty, prepare yourself mentally for getting up and moving around several times a day. It doesn’t have to be a lot. A walk across the room a few times a day keeps your circulation moving so there is a lower risk of blood clots forming in the legs.
Look better, feel better, feel like You! Contact our Salem, OR office at 503-561-7000 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Austin.