What we eat highly impacts our bodily processes, the same is true for what we eat before, during and after surgery. The right foods will help you accelerate healing times, diminish swelling and scarring and lower your risk of infection. Want to know what to eat and what to avoid? Our health experts at Northeastern Plastic Surgery crafted a comprehensive plastic surgery diet list for you to have at hand and ensure the success of your procedure.
What to Eat Before Surgery 🥬
Just like in the kitchen, preparation is key. Overall health and wellness are important to ensure a successful surgery, speedy recovery, and a positive experience that delivers lasting results.
Since plastic surgery is normally scheduled weeks or even months in advance, you can take this valuable time to increase your intake of:
- Protein: Essential for blood cells and collagen production. You should aim at 1.2 grams of protein per kg for women and 1.5 grams for kg for men. For example: a 70 kg woman (154 pounds) should aim at 84 grams of protein per day, while a 85 kg man (187 pounds) should consume 127,5 grams of protein.
Optimal protein sources include fish, eggs, chicken, turkey, beef, tofu, yogurt, nuts, quinoa and beans.
- Fruits and vegetables: High in vitamins A, C, selenium and manganese, the antioxidants your body needs to fight free radicals (cell damage, inflammation, scarring). You should incorporate more leafy greens (spinach, kale) citrus fruits, green peppers, mushrooms, cabbage, raspberries, pineapples and bananas.
- Water: It’s always important to drink plenty of water, but even more before surgery. You should aim at drinking at least 2 litres (67 ounces) a day.
What to Avoid Before Surgery ☕
This part may sting a little, but it is worth it.
A month before your scheduled surgery, you should cut back on salt, sugar, and refined carbs as they can increase inflammation.
- While generally healthy, vitamins and herbal supplements such as Omega 3, can interfere with blood clotting: critical during surgery to prevent excess bleeding.
- Foods like ginger, green tea, flaxseed, cayenne, eggplant, garlic, tomatoes and potatoes contain compounds that can interfere with medication used during surgery.
- Also, alcohol, caffeine and artificial sweeteners can dehydrate the body, interfere with anesthesia, increase heart rate and blood pressure and even cause digestive issues. It may be a good idea to cut down or eliminate consumption of these altogether as well—just saying.
The Plastic Surgery Diet: What to Eat After Surgery 🥑
As part of the plastic surgery diet, for the first 72 hours after your procedure, opt for soft, easily digestible food: apple sauce, chicken broth, scrambled eggs, and yogurt.
Anti-inflammatory foods will be your ally post-surgery: ensure to include monosaturated fats like avocado, extra-virgin oil and almond butter.
Fruits like blueberries, blackberries and cherries are not only anti-inflammatory but also high in antioxidants.
Continue to consume adequate protein and stay hydrated throughout the healing period.
➡ Related content: 8 Plastic Surgery Recovery Times Decoded
What to Avoid After Surgery🍷
When healing from your cosmetic procedure, you may resume your vitamin and herbal supplement consumption after the third day.
For a month after surgery, avoid salt, sugar, caffeine, alcohol and refined carbs.
Of course, always follow your surgeon’s instructions and advice for the best results.
We Are Here for You!
Following the above guidelines will ensure you an optimal surgical experience and recovery. If you have any related questions, Dr. Fodero is available to address any concerns you may have prior to your surgery.
At Northeastern Plastic Surgery, we pride ourselves in ofering a warm, welcoming and cozy atmosphere so you can relax during the whole process. Schedule an appointment by calling (973) 295-6565 or sending a message online.