13 Apr 2026 | by Sean Doherty, MD, FACS
An aesthetic procedure such as a breast augmentation, tummy tuck or liposuction is so powerful not only because it can change how you look, but also how you feel. Improving the appearance of something that has bothered you about your body can deliver a huge self-confidence boost.
A surgical procedure, however, does require your commitment. As a Board- Certified Plastic Surgeon who specializes in all areas of body contouring, I like to think that I have the experience, skill and artistic eye to deliver the best suitable result for your anatomy. However, there is a part of achieving the result that we both want that lies solely with you — the recovery. It is an integral component of any body contouring procedure so it’s critical that you do everything possible to set yourself up for success. Here are the top 5 mistakes to avoid for a smooth recovery.
Do Not Return to Your Normal Routine Too Quickly
The internet can sometimes make things look too easy. I’m sure you’ve followed someone on social media who got breast implants and seemed to be back on the beach the next day. This is not advisable. I am always very honest with my patients about what to realistically expect in terms of downtime. And though I do want my body contouring patients up and moving pretty soon after their procedure, this does not mean that it’s time to return to your normal routine. Whether you’ve had a:
• Breast Augmentation
• Breast Lift
• Tummy Tuck
• Liposuction
• Gynecomastia Procedure
Your tissues have undergone some degree of trauma. The body’s natural healing reaction is swelling and maybe some bruising. Trying to do too much too soon, whether it’s:
• Cleaning the kitchen
• Taking the dog for a walk
• Picking up your toddler
• Going to the gym
These activities may all interfere with your body’s healing process, making things worse. You can even pull some internal or external stitches. All of which could very well compromise your end result. So, follow your post-op instructions and take it easy.
Make Sure You Don’t Neglect Proper Wound Care
Part of what differentiates a surgical procedure from a non-surgical procedure is that your skin is cut. Even with liposuction, where the incisions are so tiny that they don’t even require stitches, there is still a wound that needs to be cared for in a proper fashion. During our initial meetings, my team and I will go over in detail what you can expect in terms of wound healing. You will be given a list of products to have on hand so make sure that you buy whatever you don’t already own well before your surgery. And follow wound care instructions to the letter even if everything looks ok.
Don’t Ignore Medication Guidelines
Depending on your specific treatment plan, you are going to have certain medications to take to reduce any post-op discomfort or pain, and limit the risk of infection. These may include a combination of over the counter (OTC) drugs such as ibuprofen or Tylenol, and/or prescription medications such as:
• Pain medication
• Stronger anti-inflammatory
• Anti-anxiety or muscle relaxant meds
• Antivirals if there is a history of herpes
We will also go over your current medication and supplements list during your pre- op appointments as there may be some that you will need to stop taking before surgery and then wait 1-2 weeks after your procedure to resume.
Make Sure Not to Skip Follow-Up Appointments
As mentioned, swelling and bruising are a normal part of any patient’s recovery process. However, this does not mean that I don’t need to monitor your progress. It is, therefore, imperative that you don’t skip any follow-up appointments even if you are feeling great. Complications can arise despite my surgical planning and one of the keys to a smooth, stress-free recovery is to nip any potential issue in the bud before it can bloom into something serious.
Commit to the Compression Garment
Last, but definitely not least, is that if you have a tummy tuck, liposuction or treatment for gynecomastia, you are going to need to wear a compression garment 24/7 for 3 weeks and then 12 hours a day for another 6-8 weeks at minimum. Patients sometimes hate the idea of a compression garment. And while I understand that they can be cumbersome, you have spent considerable time and money to change your body contour, and the garment is part of this process. It will greatly reduce any post-op discomfort/pain as it helps to reduce swelling. Furthermore, it is a great aid in achieving the excellent result that we want. So, honestly, it is very much worth it to commit to all aspects of your recovery.
To find out more about any other surgical or non-surgical procedure with Dr. Sean Doherty or his team at his Boston or Chestnut Hills office, contact us today or call (617) 450-0070 to schedule a consultation.
