What do you need to have ready after your surgery?

You’ll want to get your recovery area prepped before you leave for surgery so you don’t have to worry about anything other than healing! There are several important items besides comfy clothes you’ll need to have ready.

After plastic surgery, proper nutrition and having the right supplies are essential for a smooth recovery. Here’s a list of food and supplies you may need:

 

Food & Nutrition:

 

High-Protein Foods (for healing and tissue repair):

  • Lean meats (chicken, turkey)
  • Fish (salmon, tuna)
  • Eggs
  • Greek yogurt
  • Tofu and tempeh
  • Cottage cheese
  • Protein shakes or powders (if advised by your doctor)

 

Hydration:

  • Water (important for staying hydrated and promoting healing)
  • Coconut water (for electrolytes)
  • Herbal teas (e.g., ginger, chamomile)
  • Clear broths (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
  • Fresh fruit juices (without added sugar)
  • Bone broth- has protein too

 

Fruits and Vegetables (rich in vitamins and minerals for recovery):

  • Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries) for antioxidants
  • Leafy greens (spinach, kale) for vitamin K and folic acid
  • Avocados (healthy fats and vitamin E)
  • Sweet potatoes (rich in vitamins A and C)
  • Carrots and bell peppers (for vitamin C)
  • Apples, pears, and oranges

 

Healthy Fats:

  • Olive oil
  • Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
  • Seeds (chia, flax)
  • Nut butters (peanut, almond)
  • Fatty fish (like salmon or mackerel)

 

Supplements (only as prescribed or recommended by your doctor):

  • Vitamin C (supports healing and immune function)
  • Vitamin A (supports skin repair)
  • Zinc (aids in wound healing)
  • Bromelain (from pineapples, can reduce swelling)
  • Arnica supplements (often recommended for bruising and swelling)

 

Easy-to-Digest Foods (for when appetite is low or you have difficulty chewing):

  • Oatmeal
  • Smoothies (with fruits, protein powder, and greens)
  • Soups and broths
  • Mashed potatoes or cauliflower
  • Soft scrambled eggs

 

 

 

Post-Surgery Supplies:

 

Medical Supplies:

  • Prescription medications (pain relievers, antibiotics, etc.)
  • Ice packs or gel packs (to reduce swelling and discomfort)
  • Gauze and bandages (for wound care)
  • Antiseptic or wound-cleaning solution (to keep incisions clean)
  • Adhesive medical tape (to secure bandages)
  • Arnica gel or cream (to reduce bruising)
  • Compression garments (if required for swelling or shaping)

 

Personal Care Products:

  • Moisturizer (for dry skin post-surgery)
  • Lip balm (since anesthesia can cause dry lips)
  • Gentle body wash or soap (non-scented, to avoid irritation)
  • Disposable underpads or bed liners (for leaks or post-operative drainage)
  • Wet wipes or sanitizing hand gels (for easy cleaning if mobility is limited)

 

Comfort Items:

  • Pillows (for elevating your body or head to reduce swelling)
  • Comfortable clothing (loose-fitting, especially for post-surgery garments)
  • Post-surgery bra or garment (for breast surgeries or abdominal procedures)
  • Heating pads (for muscle tension or pain relief)
  • A shower chair (if mobility is an issue after surgery and if you’re allowed to shower post surgery).

 

Hydration Aids:

  • Drinking straws (for easier sipping if lying down or post-surgery)
  • Water bottles (with built-in straw or easy-to-grip design)

 

Supportive Items:

  • A recliner or comfortable chair (for resting in an elevated position)
  • A walker or cane (if needed for assistance with mobility)
  • Stool softeners (to avoid strain during bowel movements)
  • A journal or notebook (for tracking recovery and medications)

Having these foods and supplies available post-surgery can help you recover more comfortably and efficiently. Always follow your doctor’s specific recommendations for both diet and recovery supplies to ensure the best outcome.