After Your Surgery

Yee Cheng Low, MD YCL Plastic Surgery

Recovery instructions are specific to your procedure and provided in writing. General principles apply across procedures.

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The first 48 hours

Rest, but move. Short, frequent walks around the house from the first day significantly reduce the risk of blood clots.
Take pain medication as prescribed, ahead of pain rather than in response to it
Keep dressings dry and intact
Drink fluids and eat lightly
Have someone with you

The first two weeks

Wear compression garments exactly as instructed — they affect the final result, not just comfort
Sleep in the position specified for your procedure
No lifting beyond the limit you were given
Attend all follow-up appointments
Expect swelling, bruising, tightness, and altered sensation. All are normal.

Weeks two to six

Gradually resume activity as directed
Begin scar care when cleared — silicone sheeting or gel, and strict sun protection
Resume light exercise only when cleared
Expect emotional variability. It’s common, it’s normal, and it passes.

Call the office if you experience

Fever above 38°C / 100.4°F
Increasing redness, warmth, or drainage from an incision
Sudden swelling on one side
Pain that worsens rather than improves, or is not controlled by medication
Calf pain, chest pain, or shortness of breath — seek emergency care immediately

Scar care

Scars mature over 12–18 months. Silicone therapy, consistent sun protection, and avoiding tension on healing incisions all measurably improve the final appearance. Start when cleared and stay consistent — this is one part of your result you directly control.

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