We all know that after cosmetic surgery, strict adherence to the doctor's post-operative care instructions is essential to enhance the success rate of the procedure. Dietary care is particularly crucial—certain foods must be avoided, as consuming them could jeopardize the entire surgery.
Why are dietary restrictions necessary after plastic surgery?
1. Risk of wound infection
Consuming excessively hot or spicy foods post-surgery can induce sweating and internal heat. Sweat contains high levels of bacteria. If surgical incisions are located near sweat glands, this hinders wound healing and promotes bacterial proliferation, leading to post-operative infections.
2. Prolongs wound healing time
Consuming grilled or fried foods after surgery irritates the wound, delays healing, and may even cause excessive scar tissue formation.
3. May cause wound hematoma
After cosmetic surgery, consuming foods containing traditional Chinese medicinal ingredients that promote blood circulation and disperse blood stasis—such as safflower or angelica root—can prolong wound healing.This is especially critical after precise, small-incision procedures like eye bag removal or extensive liposuction with significant fluid drainage. Consuming blood-activating foods may cause wound rebleeding, leading to localized hematomas and prolonged recovery. Alcohol, which also promotes blood circulation, must be avoided post-surgery.
4. May Trigger Stress Responses
Procedures like facial wrinkle removal, chin augmentation, or jawline reshaping involve the oral cavity. Patients should consume soft foods post-surgery to minimize the risk of incision rupture or bleeding from chewing. Similarly, after receiving facial slimming injections, avoid foods that exercise the masseter muscle, as this may compromise recovery outcomes.
What foods are beneficial after cosmetic surgery?
To prevent localized skin darkening and accelerate wound healing, incorporate foods with whitening and wound-healing properties into your diet. Examples include collagen, vitamin C, and vitamin A.Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, reducing melanin formation, while vitamin A inhibits tyrosinase activity to deliver whitening benefits. Post-surgery, prioritize kiwis, tomatoes, oranges, milk, egg yolks, or animal liver.
Friendly Reminder
Collagen is a vital component of skin, plumping cells while enhancing moisture and elasticity. After surgery, prioritize collagen-rich foods like pig's trotter soup or pork skin.