Mobility and Activity Restrictions

Follow guidelines regarding physical activity to avoid complications. Your surgeon will advise you on how long you should rest and when you can gradually resume normal activities. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise until you receive clearance from your surgeon. Unfortunately this may include many holiday activities.

Wound Care

Generally, surgeons will make arrangements for removal of dressings and wound care. Monitor the wound for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, and contact your surgeon immediately if these occur.

Nutrition and Hydration

Maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated is useful to aid in your recovery. Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they can impede the healing process.

Monitoring for Complications

Be vigilant about any signs of complications. These can include excessive pain, fever, unusual discharge from the surgical site, or difficulty breathing. Promptly report any such symptoms to your surgeon. Having a local contact or a patient coordinator can be extremely helpful in these situations.

Duration of Stay

It's recommended to stay in South Africa for at least 10-14 days post-surgery. This allows sufficient time for initial recovery, follow-up appointments, and addressing any immediate post-operative issues that may arise. Your surgeon will provide a more specific timeline based on your procedure and individual healing progress.

Before you Leave

Hopefully your surgery will have gone well and you will be well on your way to recovery. You may still have some bruising or even swelling but this should be settling. You will also have some awareness of surgery. Sensation takes many months to resolve and can be associated with strange feelings like electric shocks or insects under the skin as the nerves recover. Scars can take a year or more to mature. Follow your surgeon's scar management advice.

Ensure that you have your surgeon's contact details and a way to contact your surgeon should you need. On the whole, complications are rare and most complications tend to be early. Many surgeons will ask you to check in periodically.

Continued Care and Monitoring

Upon returning home, continue to follow your surgeon's guidelines and instructions. This includes adhering to activity restrictions, and maintaining proper wound care. Regularly monitor your surgical site for any signs of complications.

Checking In

If you have any concerns once you are home, check in with your surgeon. Many issues which occur around this time are not serious, part of the normal healing after surgery and will resolve. Many of us are members of international societies or have colleagues abroad and, if necessary we can refer to a colleague for a check. But your primary surgeon is always your first port of call.

Physical Activity and Lifestyle Adjustments

Gradually resume physical activities as advised by your surgeon. Avoid high-impact or strenuous activities until you receive clearance. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular, gentle exercise, to support ongoing recovery and overall well-being.

Emotional and Psychological Support

Undergoing plastic surgery, especially in a foreign country, can be an emotional experience. Seek support from friends, family, or professional counsellors if needed. Joining online forums or support groups for individuals who have undergone similar procedures can also provide valuable insights and encouragement

Conclusion

South Africa offers an excellent combination of skilled plastic surgeons, state-of-the-art medical facilities, and beautiful surroundings for recovery. By following these pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative guidelines, you can ensure a safe and successful medical tourism experience. Thorough preparation, careful attention to your surgeon's advice, and adequate recovery time are key to achieving the best possible outcomes.