Beyond the Pre-Op List
The Must-Have Items That I Absolutely Wouldn't Go Without
I wanted to run down a list of some little-known, but pretty important must-haves that will get you through recovery following different cosmetic procedures.
Most of these are personal recommendations, things that truly saved me that were either advised by my surgeon and surgical coordinator, or items I learned were a necessity through my own trial and error!
First, you’ll typically be provided with a list of the usuals from your doctor or surgery center:
Hibiclens, or an antibacterial soap, to use pre-op
Colace, softeners… something to ensure the systems continue working and you don’t end up with any issues associated with prescribed narcotics and antibiotics, like constipation.
Soft, light, easy-to-remove clothing to wear at home and to any post-op appointments. Usually, anything front-buttoned and loose is best.
Medical supplies: Q-tips, cold compresses, one-time use ice packs, dressings, and medical-grade tape.
Depending on your surgery, you may be told a recliner is necessary (for a tummy tuck, 100% yes), and a walker could also be incredibly helpful to navigate around when you need to get moving.
That’s the standard list — and you absolutely need it! — but it’s not the full picture. Of course, it goes without saying, always follow your own doctor’s advice, but if you tend to prefer to be (over) prepared like me, or run into a jam at 2 a.m., here are some of my faves…
p.s. I’ll include all links to products that I can find; some are also mainstays in my Linktree!
Infected stitch or small wound? Has every other remedy failed? MediHoney saved the day for me… and it’s exactly as it sounds: medical-grade, sterile honey. With antibacterial properties, it accelerates wound healing, removes dead tissue, and reduces inflammation. I turned to this when bacitracin and changing bandages just weren’t working anymore.
Post tummy tuck with muscle repair, I could not sleep in a recliner for one more night, so I literally had this multi-piece wedge pillow set delivered by the afternoon. Total lifesaver!
Do not put stress on your scar or the hard work you just paid good money for, but you must ensure you get a good amount of sleep. That will aid in healing your body more than anything else.
I’ve also continued to use it for the additional support and relaxation.
This may sound silly, but this bed ladder pull-up device was a massive help when I was solo or didn’t quite need to pester another person to help me out of bed anymore.
It attaches easily to the bottom of the bedframe (so have it ready to use long before it’s needed!)
Personally, I’ve never seen much change with topical solutions, so this is my favorite scar tape! These silicone sheets are meant to improve the appearance of scars and are available in nude or clear. I use nude since it seems to blend in best. (Like many other things, I truly hope they offer options to accommodate all skin tones!)
I’ve gone through quite a few brands; I’ve even been in an embarrassing situation where I was at a formal event and my tape was literally falling off and hanging from my arms for much of the night. Not so fun.
This brand stays put!
Don’t rush into using this tape until your surgeon approves. I don’t care what some TikTok or Instagram reel told you, you could worsen your scar by causing infection on a wound that has not yet healed!
Arnicare Bruise Gel includes the homeopathic Arnica Montana plant, and reduces swelling and discoloration that comes with bruising post surgery, lipo, or injury.
I love the gel because it’s light, fragrance-free, and absorbs easily.
This started to really help me in the evenings when I couldn’t get comfortable from the soreness.
Some Odds and Ends…
Juven comes highly recommended by many in the medical field. It’s a flavor packet containing amino acids, collagen peptides, vitamins, and zinc that you add to water, intending to support wound healing.
I personally used it for my previous surgery, and I was told I recovered well. My scars did appear to heal well and looked good.
Was it due to this? I can’t say for sure. I certainly wasn’t having it twice a day, and since it was pricy, I didn’t purchase more.
Diet, as always, does matter. Prioritize protein from real sources as well as fiber.
You’re going to be bored.
There’s only so much Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services to mindlessly sit through.
I actually used a different lap table that I had purchased at a craft store, and it didn’t quite hold up. This portable desk was a much better find! Sturdy for anything from eating to laptop browsing, and enough space for crafting if you need to keep your hands and mind busy. The legs fold up for easy and convenient storage.
And while we heal, we still do our best to keep up on our skincare routines, don’t we?
I feel the easiest (and most relaxing!) way to do that is with Red Light Therapy. The added benefit is that it can promote collagen and circulation, improving the appearance of a scar, as well as reducing inflammation.
Be sure not to start this therapy too soon; scars must be healed first.
From clockwise: Shark CryoGlow LED Mask, LuxRenew Red Light Panel, and the Celluma POD Handheld Light Therapy.
These are just some suggestions and things that have helped me along the way. If you have more to add, please do so in the comments!
I’d love for everyone to experience the least amount of discomfort possible and be able to focus only on getting well and looking forward to the bodily changes they’ll see in the coming months.