How long should I be on a low sodium/high protein diet for, to optimize facelift recovery?

Question

I understand that a low sodium diet will help reduce the normal swelling post facelift... I have seen 1500mg as a guideline but is it helpful to get even lower (say 1000mg or 1200mg) if possible, or does that give no real added benefit as compared to 1500mg? How long should this regimen be followed? And as to increased protein intake, how long is that recommended for optimum and speediest healing?

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

A low sodium diet, less than 1500 mg/day is fine - and making it even lower will not make a significant difference. I would otherwise eat a balanced diet which includes a protein source but doesn't have to maximize it. In fact not eating a balanced diet, for example high protein and low fat and low carbohydrate diet can cause metabolic imbalance (ketosis) which may have a negative impact.See the below links on how to prepare for and the post op instructions we give our patients for a fast recovery

Timothy R. Miller, MD · Answer

The best way to recover from a facelift with regards to nutrition is to consume a well balanced diet, which is low in sodium. As a general rule, we have found that when patients limit their sodium intake to less than 1500 milligrams a day, the swelling resolves much more quickly.  Ideally, patients should continue the low sodium policy indefinitely, for overall long term health, but for the first 3-4 weeks after surgery at a minimum.  The amount of protein should follow the RDA requirement (about 50 grams for women and 60 grams for men), with perhaps a 10% increase.I hope this helps

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

A low-salt diet is generally recommended by plastic surgeons for facelift patients after the operation. This may decrease of swelling. I doubt it has any long-term effects however.

Edward J. Domanskis, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

As long as your health is good and your diet, there is no need to change your diet. High sodium does cause more edema but that type of edema/swelling is different than that caused by surgery like a facelift.

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

A low sodium well balanced diet after surgery will be helpful to promote good healing. During my patients preoperative appointment my patient coordinator will review with patients a eating plan to promote healing. There are certain things to consider in your postoperative diet. You want foods that are high in healing properties and vitamins, foods that are not spicy or irritating to your stomach, foods that promote bowel movements since medications may make you constipated and low sodium foods for reducing swelling. In general if you walk around the outskirts of the grocery store and not in any aisle you will find the fresh foods with no preservatives and less sodium. Speak with your surgeons patient coordinator and I am sure they will be happy to provide a list of foods to help you in your recovery. Wishing you a healthy, happy and speedy recovery! Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

How long should I be on a low sodium/high protein diet for, to optimize facelift recovery?

Answers (7)