The Connection Between Nutrition and Plastic Surgery Recovery

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons suggests a healthy diet for individuals recovering from a procedure. Healing does not start when the doctor cleans the wound and closes it up in a sterile environment. It begins once the doctor cuts through your skin. Although your body starts this process, it needs a supply of reliable nutrients to keep the healing going. Here are the details you should know about the importance of nutrition in plastic surgery recovery.

The Body Heals Itself

Research shows that surgical wounds are acute wounds. After your surgery, you will stay in the recovery room first. This is when the inflammation stage begins. Clotting and repairing cells move to the surgical site. They begin to correct the cell damage and stop the bleeding.

A week after the surgery, the body starts to gather cells and clear the damaged cells. The body sends materials to rebuild the damaged areas. In two weeks, the wounds begin to fill with brand-new tissue. The wound then closes, and new skin starts to form. Studies reveal that it takes a month for the wound to close. About a year of healing will complete your recovery.

Nutrition Helps

Calories support the healing process. Each stage of recovery needs a specific set of nutrients. Failing to supply your body with these nutrients will prevent your body from healing right away. Many patients lose their appetite while they recover.

Even if you start eating again, your regular diet may not supply your body with enough raw materials for healing. That is why you should consider supplementing your diet. This will close the nutrient gap. Here are the foods and drinks that you must take to help your body recover:

Fatty acid-rich foods contain high levels of monounsaturated fats. These fats can battle inflammation. You can get fatty acids from extra-virgin olive oil, avocado, and seeds. Almond butter and olives, peanut butter, and nuts are also rich in fatty acids.
Water can maintain your body’s hydration levels. This clear liquid promotes healing and lowers the risk of infection. It reduces the side effects of pain medications. Anything caffeinated will irritate your stomach and slow recovery.
High-quality lean proteins can help your body regain its strength. It can increase the body’s raw materials for building new cells while you heal. Tofu, chicken, and legumes are good sources of protein.
Fresh fruits and vegetables can supply your body with the vital minerals and vitamins to battle infection. They also reduce your risk of developing digestive problems as you recover. Some of these foods can also fight inflammation.
A moderate intake of whole grains can give your body stamina and energy. Stay away from sugar and refined grains.
Iron-rich foods can help bring back your iron and blood levels. You can get iron from foods like chickpeas, eggs, and almonds.

Good nutrition supports your recovery after plastic surgery. At Texas Plastic Surgery, we always help our patients as they go through their procedures. Please visit our clinic in San Antonio, Texas, for an in-person consultation. Call us at 210-934-8400 to schedule an appointment or inquire about our plastic surgery recovery guidelines.