Your plastic or cosmetic surgery procedure may leave you with scars, pain and stress during the recovery stages, and planning ahead with the right tools and supplies can make recovery much easier.   

Most plastic surgeons will provide post-operative instructions to help you recover and heal properly, and changes in your diet and lifestyle will be necessary. You may even need to stay in bed for a week or two to get enough rest, so making sure you stock up on supplies prior to surgery can help you stay organized.  

Susan Gail, a cosmetic surgery consultant in La Jolla, California helps patients manage recovery by offering a convenient kit for purchase. This recovery kit is a combination of holistic remedies, meals and recipes, and skincare products to be used only during the post-surgery days, helping to make the transition to the new body much smoother.  

Whether you’ve had liposuction or facial surgery, you can prepare your own kit to support your body and skin as it heals. Here are the top ten things you need for recovery after plastic or cosmetic surgery:  

1. Cold compress.  You can purchase gel packs or use frozen vegetables or bags of ice to create your own cold compresses.  You’ll need these to relive sore muscles and reduce inflammation. Regularly icing the sore areas can be very soothing, and may even help you sleep better.  

2. Irrigation bottle or spray bottle. If you have wounds or scars that are healing very slowly, they may bleed or open up during recovery. An irrigation bottle will help you manage the bleeding and keep the area clean and infection-free.  

3. Sterile gauze pads. Sterile gauze pads are another way to keep any scars or wounds free of infection, and these can be pressed delicately on the treated areas as needed. Having these on hand reduces the need for excessive bandages and band-aids that can be painful to remove.  

4. Natural sleeping aids. Sleep is an essential part of the healing and restoration process, and you may be taking many naps throughout the day for relief from pain and fatigue. Still, a good night’s rest is always important; natural sleeping aids or relaxing teas can help you get the rest you need and stay healthy.  

5. Bed and pillow covers. You may need to change your bedding more frequently after surgery, so stock up on a few sets of basic bed sheets and pillow covers.  

6. Disposable washcloths. Washcloths are one of the easiest ways to clean up a wounded area, and a damp washcloth can be used to soothe any rough skin or sores. These are an inexpensive way to keep your skin clean, and can be used in the bath or shower to scrub away dirt and oil if needed.  

7. Mild laxative. If your doctor has prescribed pain medication and other supplements, you may need a stool softener or laxative to help keep your elimination system in balance. Pain medication often leads to constipation, and a high fiber diet combined with a laxative may help.  

8. Handheld showerhead. If you’re not able to stretch or move easily while taking a bath or shower, a handheld showerhead can make it easier to wash your hair and body without extra movements.   

9. Relaxation aids. Since your body’s natural defenses will be at an all time low after surgery, relaxation aids such as aromatherapy, soothing music, and even herbal teas can help reduce stress and tension in the body. Building up your immune system with effective relaxation can improve the healing process, and may also help you sleep better.  

10. Juice and soft foods. Overtaxing the digestive system will not help you recover easily after surgery, so eat softer foods such as oatmeal and rice, and ‘liquid nutrition’ such as smoothies and fresh juice that provide you with enough energy to get through your days.  

Your plastic surgeon or cosmetic surgery specialist will provide you with more information to address specific needs during your recovery process, but these ten items are just some essentials for healing. Contact a cosmetic or plastic surgeon in your area to learn more about treatment options and services available for your recovery stages.