What NOT To Do After Your Cosmetic Surgery

Jan 23, 2015 @ 10:00 AM — by Michael A. Devlin, MD

Tagged with: Dr Michael Devlin Cosmetic Surgery Little Rock

1. Not following the treatment plan recommended by the surgeon

Most people select a cosmetic surgeon based on his expertise and skill. Dr. Devlin provides treatment plans that, in his experience, provide you with the best possible results. There are some patients who decide they want something other than what is recommended. This is one of the main reasons why the results of the surgery may not live up to your expectations. Our compassionate staff is available 24 hours a day to ensure that if you have questions about your recovery, we provide you with the answers that fit within your treatment plan.

2. Soaking up the sun

After your cosmetic surgery procedure is completed, you will be given a list of dos and don’ts. One of the don’ts will be to stay away from direct exposure to sunlight. This is especially true after laser skin resurfacing and chemical peels, as it could end up causing hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation. Furthermore, direct sunlight reduces the skin’s ability to heal, and your scars can become more prominent. Right after a cosmetic surgery procedure, stay out of the sun until your scars heal, and if you have to go out, wear a hat or protect your areas of treatment.

3. Smoking

Smoking prevents your skin from healing after the procedure. It decreases the flow of blood, which is necessary to ensure that your skin heals properly. Smoking can increase the chances of skin death. Before you decide to have cosmetic surgery, you should give up smoking. For more information about Dr. Devlin's detailed smoking policy click here

4. Taking medication or health supplements without informing your surgeon

You may be taking medications or supplements for a health problem or overall wellness. Make sure you inform your Dr. Devlin about all the medications and supplements you are on, as some of these can increase the chances of bleeding or cause poor healing of wounds. Even if you are taking an herbal or a natural supplement, be sure to inform the surgeon in advance.

5. Weight gain

If you have had a cosmetic surgery procedure, it is important to not put on weight right after the procedure. Whether you are opting for a tummy tuck or body contouring, putting on excessive weight after the surgery can ruin the results.

6. Failing to disclose previous procedures

If you have had previous cosmetic surgery procedures, please let Dr. Devlin know. This will allow him to plan the treatment to ensure positive outcomes. If you have had prior surgical or non-surgical procedures, it can have a significant effect on the results.