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Pre- and Post-Surgery Nutrition

Posted June 29, 2017 in Nutrition

There’s a lot you should do to prepare for a plastic surgery procedure. From consultations to lab tests and even setting up your resting place—there is much to do that you may not even stop to think about whether your body is prepared for surgery. Providing your body with the proper nutrients before and after your surgery is essential to a safe procedure and a great recovery.

How Does Nutrition Impact Your Recovery?

healthy food composition It takes energy to heal your body following surgery. If your body is deprived of the proper proteins, vitamins, and minerals it needs, your recovery can take longer, you can feel poorly throughout, and your results may not be as great. Nutrients and hydration play a significant role in skin elasticity, which can impact the quality of your body contouring results.

Eating Healthy Before Surgery

You cannot eat for many hours before your surgery because of the anesthesia used. However, in the weeks leading up to then, you want to make sure your diet is full of the necessary vitamins and minerals your body will need throughout recovery. You should also maintain proper hydration to help keep your body functioning properly. The week before surgery, avoid foods that are just empty calories with no nutritional value. Suggested foods to eat during this time are:

  • Lean proteins (chicken, fish, or turkey)
  • Whole grains (but limit your fiber intake two days before surgery)
  • Fruits (that are high in vitamins B and C)
  • Vegetables (that are packed with iron)

Feed Your Body the Right Way After Surgery

The first day of your recovery can take a toll on you. Nausea may prevent you from wanting to eat solid foods, and a liquid diet may be recommended for the first 24 to 48 hours. However, it is important that you don’t deprive yourself of nutrient-packed foods. Fiber-packed foods may be helpful because anesthesia and pain medication can cause constipation.

Since fatigue is common following any surgery, healthy carbohydrates are necessary to maintain your energy levels. Healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals should be included in your diet to provide your body with necessities to heal itself. Suggested foods include:

  • Dark green veggies
  • Citrus fruits
  • Berries
  • Fish
  • Chicken
  • Nuts
  • Avocados

For more pre- or post-operative information, you can call Dr. Koch’s practice at (716) 631-1220 or contact us online.