Post-Surgical Pain Management Guide
Essential Tips for Easier Healing
The Ultimate Post Surgical Guideline for pain control
Why this is important?
Healing after plastic surgery is not just about rest—it’s about smart pain control. Managing discomfort well can reduce complications, lower the need for opioids, and speed up your recovery. This guide combines the best of modern medicine, supplements, and mind-body techniques to support you every step of the way.
Medications
Days 0–7
Multi pathway pain control
|
Medication |
Dosage & Schedule |
Purpose |
|
Norco 5/325 mg |
1 tablet every 6 hours (6 AM, 12 PM, 6 PM) |
Controls moderate pain (opioid + Tylenol) |
|
Ibuprofen 400 mg |
Every 3 hours after Norco (9 AM, 3 PM, 9 PM) |
Reduces inflammation and surgical pain |
|
Gabapentin 300 mg |
Take nightly at 10 PM, starting the night of surgery |
Calms nerve pain, reduces burning/tingling |
Natural Supplements
Start 3–5 days before surgery
|
Supplement |
Dosage |
Benefits |
|
Omega-3 fatty acids |
1000–2000 mg daily |
Anti-inflammatory, supports healing |
|
Vitamin C |
1000 mg daily |
Boosts collagen and immune defense |
|
Magnesium |
250–500 mg daily |
Reduces muscle tension and cramps |
|
Curcumin (Turmeric) |
500 mg twice daily |
Natural anti-inflammatory |
|
Bromelain |
500 mg 2–3x/day |
Reduces bruising and swelling |
|
Arnica cream |
Apply 2–3x/day topically |
Reduces soreness and bruising |
Supportive Therapies
Alternative solutions for your pain
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
Daily 60–90 min sessions for 5–10 days. Enhances oxygenation and tissue
healing.
TENS Unit
1–2 sessions daily for 30 minutes. Place pads near, not over,
incisions.
Cold Compresses
Apply 15–20 min every 3–4 hours (Days 1–3). Always use a barrier to
protect skin.
IV Therapy (in clinic)
Customized for recovery, includes Vitamin C, B-complex, and
anti-inflammatory support.
Mind-Body Techniques
The Mind and senses power
|
Technique |
Frequency |
How it Helps |
|
Deep Breathing or Meditation |
10–20 min daily |
Reduces stress and pain sensitivity |
|
Guided Imagery |
At bedtime |
Promotes calm and healing through visualization |
|
Music Therapy |
As needed |
Use relaxing sound (like 432 Hz music) |
|
Aromatherapy |
2–3x/day |
Lavender or peppermint oil to calm the mind |
Important Reminders
Stay Ahead of the pain
Stay ahead of the pain – don’t wait until it gets intense
Track your pain score (0–10) and response to treatment
Avoid alcohol or driving while taking gabapentin or opioid meds (if prescribed)
Stay hydrated and well-nourished to help the healing process
Behind the Mirror
The Ultimate Guide to Safe and Satisfying Plastic Surgery” is your essential roadmap to making informed, confident decisions—demystifying procedures, prioritizing safety, and ensuring results that align with your goals.
Discover the ultimate roadmap to a safe, successful transformation in “Behind the Mirror”, crafted by acclaimed plastic surgeon Dr. Julio Clavijo Álvarez. Whether you’re contemplating plastic surgery for the first time or seeking clarity on the process, this book stands as an essential resource to educate, prepare, and empower.
With clarity and compassion, Dr. Clavijo Álvarez breaks down every aspect of the plastic surgery journey. Starting from pre-surgery preparation to the critical aspects of postoperative care, “Behind the Mirror” addresses common misconceptions and answers your most pressing questions. This book challenges the myth of cosmetic surgery as a “magic fix” and instead emphasizes a holistic approach, where physical transformation aligns with personal growth.
Highlights of “Behind the Mirror”:
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