Q1. What should I expect immediately after my surgery?

After your surgery, you will experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which is normal. Depending on the procedure, you may be advised to take medications to manage pain, prevent infection, and reduce swelling. Your recovery instructions will vary based on the surgery type, but most patients are advised to rest and limit physical activity for the first few days.

Q2. How do I manage pain after my surgery?

Dr. Majid Khan will prescribe pain medications to help manage discomfort after your surgery. It’s important to take the medications as prescribed and follow any guidelines regarding dosages and timing. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen may also be recommended for mild pain, depending on the procedure.

Q3. When can I return to normal activities after surgery?

The timeline for returning to normal activities depends on the type of surgery you had:

• Cosmetic procedures like lip fillers or Botox may allow you to return to daily activities within a few days.
• Major procedures like rhinoplasty or facelifts typically require 2–4 weeks of rest before returning to light activities.
• Reconstructive surgeries may require a longer recovery period, especially after hand surgery or free flap procedures, which can take 4–6 weeks or more.

Always follow Dr. Khan’s advice regarding activity levels to avoid complications.

Q4. How can I reduce swelling and bruising after surgery?

Swelling and bruising are common after surgery. To manage them:

• Cold compresses can be applied in the first 24-48 hours (avoid direct contact with the skin to prevent frostbite).
• Elevate your head (especially after facial surgery) to help reduce swelling.
• Follow post-operative instructions carefully regarding the use of any topical treatments.

Most swelling and bruising will subside within 2-4 weeks, but complete healing may take a few months.

Q5. How should I care for surgical wounds and incisions?

Proper wound care is critical to prevent infection and promote healing:

• Keep the area clean and dry. Gently clean the wound with a mild soap and water solution, as directed.
• Avoid touching the wound with dirty hands to reduce the risk of infection.
• Apply ointment or dressing as instructed by Dr. Khan.
• Avoid direct sun exposure on the incision sites to prevent scarring.

Dr. Khan will provide specific instructions based on the type of surgery you had.

Q6. When can I remove the bandages or dressing?

Bandages or dressings are typically removed during the first follow-up appointment. Dr. Khan will advise you on when and how to change or remove dressings based on your procedure and recovery progress. It’s essential to avoid removing any bandages or stitches prematurely to prevent complications.

Q7. How can I minimize scarring after surgery?

To minimize scarring, follow these tips:

• Keep incisions clean and dry to prevent infection, which can worsen scarring.
• Avoid sun exposure on healing scars, as UV rays can darken scars.
• Use silicone sheets or gels as recommended by Dr. Khan to promote better scar healing.
• Massage the scar area gently after healing, if advised, to help with the scar tissue’s appearance.

Most scars will improve over time, but the full healing process may take several months.

Q8. Are there any signs of complications I should watch for after surgery?

It’s important to be aware of any signs that may indicate complications, including:

• Excessive redness, swelling, or warmth at the surgical site
• Sudden increase in pain or discomfort
• Discharge or pus coming from the incision site
• Fever or chills (indicating potential infection)

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact Dr. Khan immediately for advice.

Q9. How long will it take to see the final results of my surgery?

The time it takes to see the final results of your surgery depends on the type of procedure:

• Cosmetic surgeries like lip fillers or Botox show results immediately or within a few days.
• Facelifts, rhinoplasties, and body contouring require several weeks to months for swelling to subside and the final shape to settle.
• Reconstructive surgeries may take longer, as healing can be a gradual process, and functional recovery is as important as aesthetic recovery.

Dr. Khan will provide a timeline based on your specific procedure and recovery.

Q10. What should I do if I experience any unusual side effects or complications?

If you notice anything unusual or concerning during your recovery, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Khan. Whether it’s a persistent problem with swelling, pain, or other side effects, it’s important to reach out to your surgeon as soon as possible to ensure prompt intervention.

Q11. Can I resume exercise or physical activities after surgery?

Dr. Khan will advise you on when it is safe to resume physical activities based on your surgery type. Typically:

• Light activities (walking, stretching) can resume after 2-4 weeks.
• Strenuous exercise (weightlifting, running) should be avoided for 6-8 weeks or longer, depending on the surgery’s healing process.
• Always check with Dr. Khan before returning to exercise to prevent strain on the healing areas.

Q12. Do I need to follow-up with Dr. Khan after my surgery?

Yes, follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your healing process and ensure optimal recovery. Dr. Khan will schedule one or more follow-up visits to check your progress, remove stitches or drains, and answer any questions you may have. Ensure that you attend all follow-up appointments for the best outcome.