5 Actionable Tips To Help You Keep The Weight Off After Cosmetic Surgery

by Nutrition Expert Phil Slater

Cosmetic surgery is quickly becoming a standard practice in the USA, with over 15 million procedures completed in the US alone in 2015, an increase from 2014. This field has become so popular, especially in the last few years, that some doctors, including Dr. Michael Salzhauer who is better known as Dr. Miami, have taken to snapchatting their way through their procedures. With any cosmetic procedure, especially those geared towards weight loss or fat removal, keeping the weight off post-surgery has proven to be a difficult task for many. By following the steps outlined below, making sure your tummy remains tucked will be that much easier.

Regular Exercise

Depending on the intensity of the procedure received, recovery time could be as quick as a few hours or as long as a few weeks. For this reason, many patients have been known to put on a few pounds during the recovery period due to mobility restrictions. As soon as you are able to, you should start working towards reversing those recovery pounds before you start reversing the effects of your recent procedure. If not properly cared for, skin can quickly re-expand, and fat cells can grow, so make sure you do your part and engage yourself in a proper exercise routine.

Proper Dieting

Especially during your recovery period, it may be very tempting to binge eat on any form of comfort food while you’re not able to do much else. While you may not be able to control your exercise levels during recovery, you definitely can and should control what you eat during that time. Eating foods rich in vitamins and nutrients can even help speed up your recovery and help you feel like yourself again.

Stay away from high complex carb foods while you’re on the mind and unable to burn off that extra energy. Instead, load up on simple carbs like fruits and vegetables and lean protein or protein shakes that your body can easily burn and help keep the weight off.

Stay Hydrated

During many procedures, the body loses a high level of fluids. First and foremost, staying hydrated helps replenish these levels to return your body to its pre-procedure levels. Drinking water on a regular basis throughout the day can also help you stay full and avoid unnecessary snacking; thereby, eliminating unnecessary calories. Aim for 8-10 glasses a day for optimum results. Water also helps flush fat and other toxins out of the body, leaving you both feeling and looking great after every glass.

Take Care Of Your Skin

Skin care may seem a bit odd a concept in keeping off weight, but it leads to a much quicker recovery if done correctly. Scarring and bruising are an inevitable side effect of any cosmetic procedure, but without proper care your recovery time could be extended by weeks. It is imperative that you follow any mobility restrictions put in place by your doctor, especially in treated areas. Staying out of the sun, using scar cream, and keeping your healing area clean and sanitary at all times are just a few steps you can take to help your skin heal quicker and allow you to me mobile again in no time.

Avoid Alcohol & Smoking

While both of these items are never the greatest for your health, they become especially harmful during the healing process. Nicotine especially can greatly delay recovery times and even lead to increased levels of scarring and bruising. If you are a regular smoker or drinker, be sure to let your surgeon know prior to your procedure so he can act accordingly.

Conclusion

Following these five simple steps after leaving the operating room will ensure you are back to feeling yourself in no time and that your body and your health only continue to get better post-operation.