Dining Your Way to Recovery: Optimizing Food Choices After Cosmetic Procedures
Undergoing plastic surgery can be an exciting yet challenging process. Proper preparation and aftercare are crucial for ensuring a seamless recovery and beautiful results. While patients are often prepared to wear surgical drains and garments and get plenty of rest, one of the most important aspects is to pay close attention to their nutritional choices. Consuming a diverse range of unprocessed foods is the most effective approach to ensuring your body receives the essential vitamins and minerals necessary for a successful post-surgery healing process.
Top 5 foods to focus on adding to your diet before and after plastic surgery
Protein-Rich Foods
Foods high in protein should be at the top of your list. Protein provides the basic building blocks for repairing and regenerating tissue. Aim for at least 60-80 grams of protein daily through foods like eggs, chicken, fish, dairy products, beans, nuts, and seeds. Getting adequate protein can help limit the risk of infections and boost your immunity.
Iron-Rich Foods
Every type of surgery, even planned and elective ones such as tummy tucks and facial surgery, requires a nutritious diet to enhance the recovery journey. Protein, abundant in amino acids, holds the potential to fight off infections, increase your strength, and accelerate healing. Alongside this, incorporating foods rich in iron can also contribute to the enhancement of the healing process. Iron is used to make haemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout your body and is vital for healing. Iron-rich foods include red meat, poultry, eggs, spinach, lentils, fortified cereals, and prunes. Having an iron deficiency can slow down recovery.
Considering your recovery, it might be beneficial to plan ahead by cooking and refrigerating nourishing meals before your surgery. This strategic approach ensures that these meals can be conveniently reheated as you navigate through the recovery phase.
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Vitamin C is responsible for collagen synthesis in the body. This means consuming foods rich in vitamin C could contribute to minimising the visibility of scars, resulting in healed wounds and a smoother skin texture. Vitamin C also provides structural support for your tissues. Excellent vitamin C sources include citrous fruits, bell peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, and strawberries. Try to get at least 100-200 mg daily. Consider taking a vitamin C supplement in the weeks before and after surgery.
Dark Leafy Greens
Referred to as “nature’s multivitamin,” dark leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and collard greens contain an impressive array of nutrients. These include vitamins A, C, E, and K, along with essential minerals like iron, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Renowned for their exceptional nutritional value, these leafy greens can combat fatigue and support blood clotting as you recover from surgery. They are also rich in fiber, which serves to alleviate constipation—a common side effect of pain medication and anesthesia.
Fibre-Rich Foods
The anesthesia used during plastic surgery can lead to constipation. Your plastic surgeon may advise taking a laxative. Consider incorporating fiber-rich foods that can help counteract constipation caused by anesthesia. Opting for nourishing foods such as whole grains, berries, and beans can aid in promoting healthy digestion and maintaining the proper functioning of your digestive system. Moreover, these fiber-rich foods take longer to digest, providing a prolonged feeling of fullness and reducing the likelihood of reaching for unhealthy snacks or junk foods that could trigger inflammation within the body.
Remember the Importance of Hydration
Staying hydrated is key before and after surgery. Water helps deliver nutrients, remove waste, and keep your energy up. Aim for at least eight 8-ounce glasses of fluid daily for better functioning of the body and recovery. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as both can lead to dehydration.
Whether it be a tummy tuck or a facelift surgery, maintaining a balanced diet high in lean protein, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and whole grains will optimize your results over the long term. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s specific nutritional advice. With the right diet and lifestyle, you’ll be on your way to a smooth recovery.
