4 Stages of Wound Healing After Cosmetic Surgery: What to Expect and How to Support Recovery
After cosmetic surgery, or any type of surgery, patients often wonder if their wound is healing properly. Whether you’re resting at home or already back to daily activities, understanding the wound healing process and the benefits of proper post-surgical care can improve your recovery and peace of mind.
The 4 Scientifically Proven Stages of Wound Healing
1.Hemostasis (The body stop´s bleeding)
- This is the body’s immediate response to injury, occurring within minutes.
- Blood vessels constrict and produce clots to prevent excessive blood loss.
- White blood cells (Macrophages) flood the area to protect against infection.
- The clot forms a scab, sealing the wound to begin healing.
2. Inflammation
- Typically lasts up to 6 days post-surgery.
- Signs include redness, swelling, warmth, pain, and clear fluid discharge.
- Macrophages (white blood cells) clean the wound and prevent infection.
- Normal blood flow returns to the area, essential for healing.
- If symptoms worsen, such as pus or bad odor, consult your doctor immediately.
3.Rebuilding (Proliferative phase)
- The body starts constructing new tissue to replace damaged skin.
- Oxygen-rich red blood cells deliver nutrients to form new tissues.
- Surrounding cells produce collagen, creating a scar.
- Sharp or shooting pains may occur as nerves regenerate, this is a normal sign of healing.
- Pain intensity will gradually decrease over time.
4.Maturation (strengthening and remodeling)
- The scar initially appears red, raised, and fresh.
- Over weeks to months, the scar flattens and fades to resemble surrounding skin.
- Itching or tightness indicates ongoing tissue remodeling.
- The wound gains strength as collagen reorganizes and matures.
Key factors that can affect wound healing
- Poor blood supply, which delays healing, may result from:
- Obesity
- Hypertension
- Vascular diseases (e.g., venous insufficiency)
- Diabetes
- Genetic conditions like keloids or fibrosis
- Other slowing factors include:
- Low oxygen levels
- Infection
- Stress and anxiety
- Presence of foreign bodies
- Age-related slower cellular regeneration
- Hormonal imbalances
- Certain medications (e.g., steroids, chemotherapy)
- Alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Immunocompromised states (e.g., cancer, AIDS)
- Poor nutrition
Warning Signs of Infection After Surgery
Immediately see your surgeon or healthcare provider if you notice:
- Fever
- Delayed wound healing
- Increasing redness, pain, or swelling
- Pus or foul odor from the wound
- Persistent tenderness or warmth near the incision
Why Post-surgery treatment matters
Professional post-surgical therapy improves outcomes by:
- Enhancing tissue repair and regeneration
- Accelerating wound healing timelines
- Preventing infections and complications like seromas and fibrosis
- Reducing post-operative pain and discomfort
- Lowering patient stress and supporting emotional wellbeing
Choosing the right post-surgery therapist
- Seek certified therapists experienced in post-operative care.
- Skilled therapists use personalsed treatment plans.
- Treatments may include manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) and specialiSed equipment tailored to your healing stage.
- Proper timing and techniques are crucial to maximize recovery and avoid setbacks.
A final word
It is pivotal that you know that each person and procedure is different, so recovery time may vary from patient to patient. On the other hand, proper, tailored and timily after surgery care plus self awareness improve and speed up your recovery journy.
If you have questions or would like to book your post-surgery treatment, contact us today! We’re always glad to help. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. If you found this blog useful, please share it with others who may be starting their recovery journey.
References:
https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/surgical-incision-healing
https://www.healthline.com/health/skin/stages-of-wound-healing#stages-of-wound-healing
