What happens after cosmetic surgery?

[Polly Lieberman]

After cosmetic surgery, you’ll move into an area of the hospital for observation until your anesthetic wears off and you wake up. You may need to stay overnight in the hospital. It isn’t safe to drive after you have anesthesia, so ask a friend or family member to drive you home from the hospital. You may need assistance for a few days at home while you recover. You’ll need plenty of rest after surgery. This requires time off of work or school. You’ll likely receive medications to help with any soreness or discomfort after surgery. It’s normal to have bruising and mild swelling. You can usually return to your daily routine after nonsurgical procedures, but avoid strenuous activities until your provider approves it. You can drive yourself home after nonsurgical cosmetic procedures.

Your care team will give you specific instructions about your recovery during your consultation so you can prepare. They’ll also remind you of these instructions after your procedure. It helps to have a friend or family member hear these instructions so they can help you if you need it. You’ll likely be groggy and it can be difficult remembering everything right after surgery. Follow these instructions to prevent complications. If you have any questions about what you can or can’t do while recovering, or if you experience side effects like severe pain or swelling, contact your provider.

Cosmetic surgery times vary based on what your surgeon needs to do. It could take less than an hour or it could take several hours. You can get more than one surgical procedure done at the same time, which could increase how long your surgery takes. Your surgeon will explain what to expect during your consultation. Noninvasive cosmetic procedures usually take less than an hour. Some take only a few minutes.