Cosmetic surgery, whether reconstructive facial surgery or a minor cosmetic procedure, is an invasive surgery requiring substantial recovery time. During the healing process, healthy eating habits are essential to getting the nutrients you need for your body to recover. Here’s a guide to recovering from plastic surgery in Denver and how to ensure a smooth process with the help of Dr. Dastoury.
Drink Lots of Water
Drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Water reduces the risk of infection, promotes healing, and minimizes side effects from some pain medications. It can also motivate you to get up and use the bathroom often, which keeps your blood moving. Try to drink at least 64 ounces of water every day. Avoid caffeine, as it can slow wound healing and irritate the stomach.
Foods Rich in Fatty Acids
Add foods rich in monounsaturated fats, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Some examples of healthy fats include:
- Avocado
- Nuts (walnuts and macadamia nuts are highest in anti-inflammatory omega 3)
- Almond butter
- Peanut butter
- Seeds (hemp seeds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds)
- Olives
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Avocado oil
Fresh Vegetables and Fruits
Dark, leafy greens, fresh fruits, and vegetables all provide essential vitamins and minerals to fight infection. By getting more fiber, you also minimize the risk of constipation and other uncomfortable digestive issues that can slow your recovery and make you uncomfortable while healing. Fruits that reduce inflammation include raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, and cherries.
Quality Lean Meats and Proteins
Chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes provide the energy you need to recover and keep your strength up. Eggs are an excellent protein source that also has amino acids to regenerate muscle tissue. By selecting pasture raised, wild caught and grass-fed protein, you will increase your intake of anti-inflammatory omega 3 fats.
Iron-Rich Foods
To build up your blood and restore iron levels, eat plenty of spinach, almonds, shellfish, eggs, brussels sprouts, and chickpeas. Many iron-rich whole foods are also rich in magnesium and potassium to boost energy and prevent muscle cramps.
Whole Grains
Whole grains contain complex carbohydrates for energy and stamina, and are essential to a healthy lifestyle. Avoid processed grains and added sugar. Incorporate foods like oatmeal, barley, whole grain bread, quinoa, and brown rice.
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Suggested Post Cosmetic Surgery Foods
Some foods are particularly beneficial following cosmetic surgery because they are rich in nutrients or have properties that reduce inflammation and improve healing. These nutrient dense foods include:
- Apples
- Broccoli
- Capers
- Red onions
- Citrus fruits
- Beans
- Oats
- Tofu
- Greek yogurt
- Sweet potatoes
- Pineapple (reduces inflammation)
- Spinach (Vitamins C & E make this especially helpful at controlling inflammation)
- Certain spices, including parsley, ginger, turmeric, garlic, and chili peppers
- Kiwi, which also boosts the immune system and restores collagen
Eat Small, Frequent Meals
When you eat is just as important as what you eat after cosmetic surgery in Denver, CO. Eat breakfast within an hour of waking up. A lean protein and some fruits or vegetables are a great start to the day. Throughout the day, eat nutritionally-complete and filling meals and snacks throughout the day when you’re hungry. This stabilizes blood sugar and protects against nausea and dizziness during recovery. When awake, try not to go more than 4-5 hours between meals or snacks.
Foods to Avoid Post Cosmetic Surgery
Some types of foods can do more harm than good after cosmetic surgery. In the meantime, make sure to avoid the following during your plastic surgery recovery:
- Sugary foods
- Processed grains (breads, crackers, cereal),
- Inflammatory oils such as vegetable, canola, safflower, sunflower, and soybean oils
These inflammatory oils found in many processed foods should be avoided at least the first 4-6 weeks following cosmetic surgery in Denver.
Cosmetic Surgery in Denver, CO
Your post-surgery recovery takes time. Getting plenty of rest and eating a healthy, balanced diet low in fats, sugars, and salts can ensure you heal quickly with no complications. To learn more about cosmetic surgery in Denver and what you can expect from your recovery, please contact Modern Surgical Arts of Denver. We have knowledgeable staff who can assist you.
