Advice for your Recovery Support Person – Spouse, Friend or Family members

If your loved one is preparing to undergo a plastic surgery procedure, you may be feeling a mix of emotions – excitement for the positive changes to come, but also apprehension about the recovery process. As a spouse, friend, or family member, your support during this time is invaluable. Your presence, encouragement, and practical assistance can make a world of difference in ensuring a smooth and successful recovery.

This guide created by Chester Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna and her team is designed to help you understand your role as a recovery support person and provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to offer the best possible care. Whether your loved one is undergoing a breast enhancement, reduction, or uplift; a tummy tuck or mummy makeover; a menopause makeover; or blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), this resource will give you procedure-specific advice and tips to help you during the recovery journey together.

The Role of a Recovery Support Partner

As a recovery support partner, you play an important role in your loved one’s post-operative journey. Your involvement and dedication can significantly impact their physical and emotional well-being, helping them navigate the challenges of recovery with greater ease and comfort.

One of the most essential aspects of your role is providing emotional support and encouragement. Undergoing a surgical procedure can be a vulnerable and sometimes overwhelming experience, and your loved one may face moments of frustration, discomfort, or uncertainty. By offering a listening ear, a comforting presence, and words of reassurance, you can help alleviate their concerns and boost their confidence in the healing process.

In addition to emotional support, you’ll also be instrumental in assisting with daily tasks and post-operative care. This may include helping your loved one with dressing, bathing, and mobility, as well as ensuring they take their medications as prescribed and adhere to any specific care instructions provided by their surgeon. Your attentiveness and willingness to lend a helping hand can greatly contribute to their comfort and recovery.

Another key aspect of your role is serving as a liaison between your loved one and the medical team. You may be responsible for accompanying them to follow-up appointments, communicating any concerns or questions to the surgeon or nursing staff, and relaying important information back to your loved one. By staying informed and engaged, you can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly and effectively.

Throughout the recovery process, it’s essential to remain patient, empathetic, and adaptable. Each person’s healing journey is unique, and there may be unexpected challenges or setbacks along the way. By maintaining a positive attitude, celebrating small victories, and adjusting your support to meet your loved one’s evolving needs, you can create a nurturing environment that promotes both physical and emotional healing.

What to Expect after Plastic Surgery

Recovering from plastic surgery is a gradual process that requires patience and proper care. As a support person, knowing what to expect during the first week after surgery can help you better assist your loved one throughout their recovery journey.

Here’s a general timeline of what patients may experience during the first 7 days post-op:

First 24 Hours:

• Immediately after surgery, patients may feel groggy, disoriented, or experience some nausea as a result of the anaesthesia.
• Pain, swelling, and discomfort are common and can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
• Patients should rest and sleep as much as possible, keeping their head elevated to minimise swelling.
• Dressings or compression garments may be in place to protect the surgical site(s) and promote healing.

48 Hours Post-Op:

• Pain and discomfort may peak during this time, but can still be controlled with medication.
• Swelling and bruising may become more noticeable, which is a normal part of the healing process.
• Patients should continue to rest and limit their physical activity, avoiding any strenuous tasks or movements.
• Gentle walking around the house is encouraged to promote circulation and prevent complications like blood clots.

First 3 Days:

• Pain and discomfort should start to subside gradually, although some soreness may persist.
• Swelling and bruising may continue to develop, often peaking around day 3 or 4.
• Patients may experience some itching or numbness around the surgical site(s), which is a sign of the healing process.
• Continued rest is essential, with short walks and light activities as tolerated.
• Patients should stay hydrated and maintain a healthy, balanced diet to support healing.

Up to 1 Week:

• Pain should be more manageable, and patients may begin to taper off pain medication as directed by their surgeon.
• Swelling and bruising should start to diminish, although some residual discolouration may persist for several weeks.
• Patients may feel more comfortable engaging in light activities, such as short walks or gentle stretches, as advised by their surgeon.
• Follow-up appointments with the surgeon will be scheduled to monitor progress and address any concerns.
• Compression garments or dressings may still be required to support the healing process and minimise swelling.

It’s essential to remember that every patient’s recovery experience is unique, and the timeline may vary depending on the type of procedure, individual healing factors, and adherence to post-operative care instructions. Some patients may feel better sooner, while others may require more time to recover.

As a support person, your role is to provide comfort, assistance, and encouragement throughout the first week and beyond. Help your loved one stay on top of their medication schedule, ensure they get plenty of rest, and assist with daily tasks as needed. Be patient and understanding, as the recovery process can be physically and emotionally challenging at times.

If you notice any signs of complications, such as excessive pain, swelling, redness, or discharge from the surgical site(s), contact Anca Breahna’s team immediately for guidance.

Responsibilities and Recommendations for the Support Person

Your responsibilities extend beyond providing emotional support and encouragement; you’ll also be instrumental in assisting with daily tasks, post-operative care, and ensuring your loved one follows their surgeon’s instructions. Here are some key responsibilities and recommendations to keep in mind:

1. Assist with daily activities: In the early stages of recovery, your loved one may have limited mobility and energy. Help them with tasks such as dressing, bathing, and preparing meals. If they have children or pets, you may need to take on additional responsibilities to allow them ample time to rest and recover.
2. Manage pain and discomfort: Ensure your loved one takes their prescribed pain medication on schedule and as directed by their surgeon. Help them find comfortable positions for rest and sleep, using extra pillows for support if needed. If they experience severe or unmanageable pain, contact Anca Breahna’s team for guidance.
3. Encourage rest and relaxation: Create a peaceful and nurturing environment at home, minimising stress and distractions. Encourage your loved one to rest as much as possible, especially during the first 72 hours after surgery. Help them find enjoyable and relaxing activities that don’t require much physical exertion, such as listening to audiobooks, practicing gentle breathing exercises, or engaging in light conversation.
4. Monitor swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising are normal parts of the healing process, but it’s essential to keep an eye on their progression. If you notice any excessive swelling, redness, or discharge from the surgical site(s), inform the surgeon promptly. Assist your loved one with applying cold compresses or other recommended treatments to manage swelling and discomfort.
5. Promote a healthy lifestyle: Support your loved one’s healing by preparing nutritious meals and encouraging them to stay hydrated. As they begin to feel better, help them incorporate light exercise and gentle movements into their routine, as advised by their surgeon. This can help improve circulation, reduce the risk of complications, and support the healing process.
6. Attend follow-up appointments: Accompany your loved one to their follow-up appointments with Anca Breahna and the nursing staff. Help communicate any concerns or questions they may have, and take notes on any important instructions or recommendations provided by the medical team.
7. Provide emotional support: Recovering from plastic surgery can be an emotional experience, and your loved one may face moments of frustration, anxiety, or self-doubt. Be patient, understanding, and supportive throughout the process. Encourage them to express their feelings openly and reassure them that healing takes time and that you’re there to support them every step of the way.

FAQs about Recovery after Plastic Surgery

Further Reading about Plastic Surgery

• Read more about Preparing for Surgery
• Read more about Risks and Complications of Surgery
• Read more about Recovery after Plastic Surgery
• Read more about How to Lose Weight before Surgery
• Read more about Smoking and Vaping before/ after Surgery