Sheltering in place can take many forms. Some of us are using this extra time at home to spring clean, spend more quality with loved ones—whether virtually or safely in-person—or even tap into a new workout routine. However, if you had a cosmetic surgery or treatment scheduled for right about now, what you do at home now can make a significant difference in your healing—and results—come surgery time.
According to Boston facial plastic surgeon Jaimie DeRosa, MD, if your surgery date has been pushed back, this is the perfect time to practice “extra pre-op prep” right at home.
First up on the treatment-prep checklist: clean up your diet. While indulging in comfort food seems like an easy option right about now, eating a balanced diet filled with vitamins and antioxidants is key to ensuring a healthy recovery. Another must, according to Dr. DeRosa? Avoiding alcohol—”especially in excess,” she stresses.
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Number two on the checklist: “Maintaining a daily exercise and strengthening routine.” As countless gyms close throughout the nation, even more online options are becoming available. Our personal at-home favorites? Obé Fitness, alo Moves and SWEAT by Kayla Itsines. (Find even more of our must-downloads here.)
In addition to a clean diet and daily sweat session, Dr. DeRosa adds that avoiding excess sun when outdoors, and wearing sunscreen even when inside, are both crucial steps in preparing for any type of cosmetic treatment. Looking for a new SPF or blue-light shield? Look no further than this year’s NewBeauty Award Winners.
Last but certainly not least, another pre-op prep step that Dr. DeRosa can’t stress enough is “taking time for yourself to keep a positive mindset, in whatever way you find helpful for you.” Whether that looks like a morning meditation session, watching your favorite movie in the evening or carving time each week to call someone close to your heart, caring for your mind will make a world of a difference both now and later.
“No one knows when the current situation will ease, but once it does, you may be right back on the schedule sooner than anticipated,” says Dr. DeRosa. “Keeping yourself healthy in all aspects will undoubtedly foster more rapid healing and may even yield better results.”
