Factors that Contribute to Swelling after Plastic Surgery By Constance M. Barone, M.D. on January 28, 2017

Swelling is common after any surgical procedure. After body plastic surgery procedures, swelling can make it more difficult for patients to see their dramatic results. Dr. Constance Barone can help patients understand all the factors that contribute to swelling after plastic surgery during the consultation process at our San Antonio, TX office. She will also provide tips to help minimize swelling so patients can enjoy the aesthetics of their results sooner.

There are several different factors that contribute to the degree of swelling you experience after plastic surgery. Dr. Barone will discuss these with you and provide guidelines to help you minimize swelling. It is important to keep in mind that mild to moderate swelling is a signal that your body is healing. In most cases, swelling subsides within a few days to a few weeks.

Surgical Technique

Certain surgical techniques result in more post-operative swelling than others. Dr. Barone uses the most advanced and minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. This helps to keep the swelling her patients see to a minimum. She will discuss the particular techniques she utilizes during your consultation and can address any questions or concerns you may have.

The Body’s Natural Healing Process

Swelling is a natural part of the healing process. Some patients heal more quickly than others, so they experience less swelling overall, or swelling occurs for a shorter period of time. In either case, the swelling is the body’s natural response to trauma. Inflammation occurs to protect the body’s tissues and begin healing.

Failing to Follow Post-Operative Instructions

Patients who do not follow Dr. Barone’s instructions following their procedure are more likely to experience swelling and other complications. Her post-operative instructions are designed to maximize your recovery time and minimize swelling and other complications. By following them closely after surgery, you can enjoy all the benefits of your procedure sooner.

How Can I Minimize Swelling?

Dr. Barone’s post-operative instructions provide detailed guidelines you can follow that will help you minimize swelling. A few of these instructions include the following.

Wearing a Compression Garment

Most plastic surgeries require the use of a compression garment for a few days to several weeks after surgery. The compression garment helps minimize swelling by holding all the tissues in place and reducing additional trauma that can occur as you increase your activity levels.

Gradually Increasing Activity Levels

Light activity in the days following your surgery is usually recommended. Occasional walking can help get the blood flowing to the affected tissues, stimulating healing and preventing blood clots. It is important not to overdo activities, though. Dr. Barone can provide you with more about safely increasing your activity level. Doing too much too soon can cause further swelling, result in the incisions to reopen, and cause other complications.

Maintaining a Healthy Diet

Salt and alcohol can cause bloating and water retention. Limiting your intake can help keep swelling to a minimum. Additionally, eating whole, nutritious foods can help your body heal while keeping swelling to a minimum.