Assisting with Cosmetic Surgery Recovery: The Complete Guide for Caregivers

Caring for a Loved One After Cosmetic Surgery: What You Need to Know

If you’ve been entrusted with the responsibility of caring for a friend or family member after they undergo a cosmetic surgery procedure, it’s natural to feel a little overwhelmed. Seeing someone you care about go through elective surgery can be both emotional and nerve-wracking. You might be wondering, “What exactly is expected of me during their recovery?”

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To help answer these questions and put your mind at ease, we sat down with our experienced post-operative nurses, who are experts in the field of postoperative aftercare. These professionals have addressed some of the most common queries and concerns that caregivers have as they prepare for their loved one’s day of surgery.

RELATED: Post-Surgery Top Tips – Recovery After Cosmetic Procedures

What to Expect When Picking Up Your Loved One After Surgery

When you arrive at our Baker Street clinic to pick up your loved one from their surgery, their condition could vary significantly depending on several factors such as the type of surgery they had, how their body reacted to anaesthesia, and their personal tolerance to pain or discomfort. Here’s a general guide on what to expect:

First Sight

Your loved one will be escorted to the ground floor by a recovery room nurse. This will be the first time you see them after surgery. Caregivers are not allowed in the operating or recovery rooms for safety and privacy reasons, but you are welcome to call the clinic for updates, as long as we have permission to share that information with you.

Physical Appearance

Patients are usually discharged in their pyjamas, robe, and slippers. They will also be wearing a surgical garment underneath their clothing. Don’t be surprised if you see drains or bandages; these are common and are part of the post-operative care process.

Mental State

The patient could range from being somewhat groggy to fully awake and lucid. The effects of anaesthesia can linger and affect each individual differently. Some people may be more alert and able to carry on a conversation, while others might be drowsy, disoriented, or even slightly confused initially.

Conversation and Interaction

Depending on their mental state, your loved one might not be up for much conversation, or they might want to talk but not make much sense. It’s best to keep interactions simple and straightforward at this stage.

Picking Up Your Loved One from Surgery: Timing and Logistics

When it comes to picking up your loved one after their surgery, timing can be a bit fluid, and communication is key. Here’s what you need to know:

Keep Your Mobile Handy

On the day of the surgery, you will be asked to keep your mobile phone switched on and within reach at all times. This is so that we can contact you as soon as we have updates on the patient’s status or if there are any changes to the estimated discharge time.

Estimated Discharge Time

It’s important to note that the time provided for the surgery is an estimate and could vary. Surgeries might run early or late, depending on various factors like the complexity of the procedure or the surgeon’s schedule for the day. Therefore, flexibility on your part will be greatly appreciated.

Notification from Recovery Room Nurse

Once the patient is moved to the recovery room post-surgery, the recovery room nurse will call you to provide an update. During this call, you will be informed about the estimated discharge time. This is your cue to start heading towards the clinic to pick up your loved one.

Parking and Reception

You will be asked to park in any available pay and display space in the local area. Upon arrival, please check in at the clinic’s reception. They will guide you through the next steps, and you will be united with your loved one shortly after that.

Level of Care Required for Your Loved One After Surgery

Caring for a loved one after cosmetic surgery can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to be responsible for and for how long:

Duration of Care

The minimum requirement is that you are available to care for the patient for the first 24 hours following surgery. While the patient has the option to arrange for extended care beyond this period, it’s not strictly necessary unless specified by the medical team.

The Night After Surgery

You will need to stay overnight with the patient to assist them with various tasks. These can include:

• Escorting them to and from the bathroom
• Helping them get in and out of bed
• Assisting them with stairs, if applicable

Post-Operative Appointment

You’ll also be responsible for driving the patient to their post-operative visit the next day, should such an appointment be necessary.

Special Care Requirements

Some patients may have surgical drains in place. If this is the case, you will be responsible for helping manage the drain output. The clinic will provide you with both verbal and written instructions on how to do this effectively, and this information will be part of the discharge package.

Discharge Package

You’ll receive a comprehensive package with all the discharge information and instructions for post-operative care. This will be your go-to guide for how to assist your loved one in their recovery.

Errands and Leaving the Patient Alone: The 24-Hour Rule

The immediate 24-hour period following the surgery is crucial for the patient’s recovery and well-being. Therefore, it’s essential that you, as the caregiver, remain with the patient continuously during this time. This means that you cannot leave them alone to run errands, go to work, or for any other reason during this 24-hour window.

After the 24 Hours

Once the initial 24-hour period has passed, you may find it more feasible to leave the patient alone for short periods, provided they are comfortable and you’ve assessed that they are in a stable condition. If you need to run essential errands like picking up groceries, this would be the time to do it. However, ensure you are reachable by phone and not too far away in case of emergencies.

Administering Medication: What You Need to Know

Absolutely, you will play a crucial role in managing your loved one’s medication post-surgery. Ensuring that the correct medication is administered at the right time can be vital for a smooth and efficient recovery.

Discharge Nurse’s Guidance

Before your loved one is discharged, the nurse in charge will sit down with you to thoroughly review the post-operative medication routine. This will include details such as the types of medication to be given, the timing, and any other special instructions that may be necessary.

Post-Op Surgical Package

You will also be provided with a comprehensive post-operative surgical package that contains all the written instructions for administering medication. This package will serve as your reference guide, so keep it handy. It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with these instructions ahead of time so that you’re well-prepared.