It hurts just to open a water bottle? Things you might not know about recovering after plastic surgery

Imagine you've just come home to recover from a plastic surgery procedure. You are warm and cozy in your pajamas and have settled into your comfort nook, ready to start recovery. Following your doctor's orders, you are opening a bottle of water to take your medication and stay hydrated when you get a surprise... "Ouch! That hurts!"

You read the information provided by your doctor, you did your research and, still, you may be surprised by the small things that hurt, annoy or frustrate you after surgery, like the seemingly simple task of twisting open the cap on a water bottle. It's time to explore what you might not know or be prepared for following a plastic surgery procedure.

Things you might not know about plastic surgery recovery

Of the above scenario, Anureet Bajaj, MD, said that it sounds like an under-the-muscle breast augmentation procedure.

"We actually use our pectoralis muscles when twisting a cap off a bottle," said Dr. Bajaj.

Naturally, using those muscles after surgery can be uncomfortable and potentially painful for some patients.

"Many people underestimate the recovery process," said Josef Hadeed, MD, FACS. "Even after abdominal surgeries like tummy tucks, where core movement is restricted, many patients may find it difficult to go from a sitting to a standing position and vice versa. The pain that patients feel often stems from muscle stretching, swelling or nerve sensitivity."

Prepping for your recovery

For under-the-muscle breast augmentation, tummy tucks and other procedures where muscles may be impacted, what can you do to prepare for recovery and keep yourself comfortable, avoiding the frustrations and pain that can come with a limited range of motion?

"After breast surgery, you are going to want bras that zip or open in the front, as well as shirts or hoodies that open in the front," said Dr. Bajaj. "You won't want those sports bras you'll have to squeeze into through your head because those will be super uncomfortable to get on and off."

"It's helpful to have done meal prep before surgery for that first week, so you don't have to worry about things," Dr. Bajaj continued. "In the same vein, move things you think you'll need from higher shelves to lower shelves, so you don't have to climb or reach excessively. I also tell my patients that the pain and discomfort is usually worst first thing in the morning because you're stiff."

Meal prepping before surgery is one way you can prepare without stressing about what's for dinner and who will make it. Plus, you'll have pre-made meals ready for your postop recovery. Good nutrition can help promote wound healing, while poor nutrition and hydration can slow healing.

This strategy is even more incentive to create your own meals ahead of time instead of constantly ordering out. Portion small meals and leave them in your refrigerator or freeze them for when needed. If you freeze your meals, you can slowly start meal prepping weeks before your surgery, so you aren't rushing around at the last minute to get things done.

Going back to our earlier example, if you are afraid you won't be able to open items with twist-off lids, invest in a water filter for your sink or jugs of water with pop-top lids. Alternatively, if your favorite electrolyte-packed beverage comes with a twist-off lid, you might want to unscrew all the lids before surgery so they're easier to open when your muscles are sore.

If you are afraid to reach for things and can't move everything you need to a more manageable area of your home, consider investing in a reaching tool or "grabber" so you can reach items without lifting your arms. These types of assistive devices are available at durable medical goods retailers or online.

"Probably one of the biggest surprises is that many underestimate how much help they'll need," said Dr. Hadeed. "Driving, cooking or even showering can be off-limits initially, especially after procedures affecting the upper body – for example, arm lifts or breast surgeries. We always recommend that patients do all their meal prep and laundry prior to surgery, and also make sure to make arrangements for kids and pets."

"Sleep disruptions are common since patients are often asked to sleep in specific positions, like upright after breast surgery or on your stomach after a Brazilian butt lift, which can be uncomfortable and disrupt rest," continued Dr. Hadeed. "Pain, swelling or medical devices like drains can make finding a comfortable position tricky."

Wedge pillows help keep a person upright in bed, and full-body pillows may help keep you in a more comfortable position during recovery, allowing you to get the rest your body needs. Create a quiet and comfortable nook before surgery where you'll have everything you need close by.

Sometimes, patients with a limited range of motion get around using a little shuffle walk. To prevent falls, consider getting socks with silicone gripping nubs on the bottom, which give you more traction when walking.

Mental recovery is important too

Finally, one aspect of post-surgery recovery that many people are not ready for is the mental impact of surgery and the recovery process.

"Many patients are also unprepared for the emotional toll that plastic surgery can have," said Dr. Hadeed. "Post-surgical blues, anxiety about results or frustration with slow progress can hit hard. This is partly due to physical discomfort, medication side effects or the psychological impact of altered appearance. It is often difficult to convince patients to remain patient with the healing process. Swelling can persist for weeks or even months, especially with procedures like rhinoplasty or liposuction. Patients often expect immediate results but are surprised when their 'final look' takes time to emerge."

Talking to your board-certified plastic surgeon, family or close friends about your feelings can help quell the uncertainty and anxiety of your postsurgical recovery. Additionally, never be afraid to ask for help, physical or mental. Now is the time to surround yourself with people who can offer you the support you deserve. Give yourself patience and grace during this delicate time and realize that changes don't occur overnight. Like a butterfly, it takes time to emerge as a different version of yourself.

To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.