10 must-haves for a comfortable cosmetic surgery recovery

As a personal concierge in New York City, I’ve helped numerous men and women recover from plastic surgery in their own homes and in hotel rooms. Through these experiences, I've discovered there are many items you need close at hand to make your recuperation as easy as possible. 

1. Medication from your doctor. Your doctor will almost certainly prescribe you pain medication along with an antibiotic. Be sure to have your prescriptions filled a few days ahead of time. Sometimes pharmacies have to order medication and you don’t want to be running around town the day of your surgery trying to get your prescription filled. 

2. Surgical gloves. If you are having a surgery, such as a tummy tuck or facelift, that requires drains that will need to be emptied, your caretaker will appreciate it if you have these on hand. Gloves are also useful should there be any unexpected bleeding or vomiting from an interaction with the anesthesia. Extra gauze is also a good idea.

3. Reusable gel ice packs. With smooth edges, gel ice packs are gentler on bruised or sore body parts than regular ice. Plus the packs don’t drip.

4. Neosporin and Aquaphor. It’s not uncommon to incur minor scrapes after surgery. Neosporin will ensure these don’t get infected. Aquaphor is a thick, soothing moisturizer, especially for lips.

5. A wide selection of juices and soda. In my experience, it helps to have something with a bit of sugar in it when you’re taking medication. Ginger ale and diluted juices are especially easy going down.

6. Crackers and broth-based soups. While I’ve had clients who are starving post surgery—one even ate a grilled cheese sandwhich and chocolate chip cookies after a facelift—the majority want soothing, bland, comfort foods to help with nausea and a decreased, post-anesthesia appetite. Do note that if you’re having face work done, crunchy foods can be challenging, so you may want to stick with soups and smoothies.

7. Bendable straws. Sitting up after any major surgery can be difficult. Straws make it easier to drink while lying down.

8. Pillows in all shapes and sizes. The first night after your surgery is likely to be your hardest. A pillow under your knees, an extra one behind your head and ones on your sides to prevent rolling can help you feel more comfortable.

9. Comfy PJ’s and socks. You may very well go straight to bed in the outfit you went to surgery in, but often times, a change of clothes can do wonders for the way you feel.

10. DVD’s, books, books on tape and magazines. You’ll likely be spending a few days in bed. Make sure you’ll be well entertained by picking up a selection of movies, books and magazines. If you’re having eye work done, books on tape are a smart idea as you may need to avoid eyestrain.

For specific cosmetic surgery recovery tips, you can ask a doctor on RealSelf or read cosmetic treatment reviews.

Guest post by Anne L. Fritz, Owner, Cashmere Personal Concierge