The recovery process across the ages: How recovery changes as you get older

Your recovery from surgery plays a key role in your outcome. Following the directions of your plastic surgeon to the letter is very important, but your age also plays a critical role.

Growing older may bring more experience and wisdom, but it also comes with a change in how you recover, whether it's an injury, trauma or surgery. To better understand how age can affect the recovery process following a plastic surgery procedure, we reached out to ASPS Member Surgeons Josef Hadeed, MD, FACS, and Susan Kaweski, MD.

Importance of the recovery process

The surgery is often the focus of any procedure. Recovery is often overlooked, but it is a crucial part of the process. It's easy to concentrate more on your ideal results, but recovery does play a key role in determining the ultimate outcome.

"The recovery process is just as, if not more, important than the actual surgery," said Dr. Hadeed. "Many patients erroneously assume that once their procedure is complete that there is no additional work that needs to be done. However, in order to optimize results, the postoperative protocol is of utmost importance to ensure that the results you obtain from your surgery are long-lasting."

Patients may have a lot of questions about their recovery, and it's important they have a clear picture of what to expect to ensure an optimal outcome.

"When a patient is deciding about a plastic surgery procedure, the discussion not only centers on the procedure and the results, but also on the recovery process," said Dr. Kaweski. "Patients want to know how long they will not be able to do strenuous activity, what activities they have to avoid, the degree of swelling and bruising and how much pain they will experience. Sometimes it is the recovery that determines when they will have the procedure or whether or not they will have the procedure."

A patient who does not properly follow the postsurgical protocol established by their surgeons, such as going back to normal activities too soon, runs the risk of slowing down the recovery process or experiencing suboptimal results.

"Certainly, if the patient does not adhere to postop instructions, he or she may experience complications prolonging their postop course and healing," said Dr. Kaweski. "These complications can range from infection, bleeding, severe swelling, loss of tissue and reoperation, to just name a few."

The recovery process through the ages

It's important to note that younger patients typically tend to recover more quickly than mature patients in general when it comes to surgical procedures.

"The physiological reserves in a younger patient are higher, and the healing time is typically shorter than in an older patient," said Dr. Hadeed. "Younger adults generally recover well but must manage lifestyle factors that could impede healing. Older adults face the most challenges due to physiological decline, comorbidities and social factors that can extend recovery time and increase complication risks."

However, while younger patients tend to physiologically heal more quickly than mature patients, there are other factors at play that can limit their physical recovery. One of the most common recovery challenges for younger patients is their tendency to jump right back into normal activities as soon as they begin to feel better, even against the advice of their surgeon.

"Younger patients seem to recover quicker, which means they feel 'normal' and then go back to their regular activity sooner than expected," said Dr. Kaweski. "Again, this can complicate their postop course and result in prolonged postop course."

With older patients, extra steps must be taken in advance in order to qualify them for the surgery and optimize their outcomes.

"In more mature patients, it is essential they undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation prior to surgery and optimize any medical conditions they may have," said Dr. Hadeed. "Sometimes, engaging in prehabilitation, such as physical therapy and light exercise before surgery, can improve strength and stamina, which can help with postoperative recovery."

Following surgery, more mature patients must often take additional steps to ensure that they are healing properly.

"Older patients should avoid staying sedentary for too long or overexerting themselves too soon after surgery, which could cause complications," said Dr. Hadeed.

It is important to get some movement, but it's also crucial to be patient with your recovery process, especially for older patients.

"More mature patients realize their recovery is somewhat slower," said Dr. Kaweski. "They may have had prior surgical experiences, but it seems that they adhere to their postop instructions more closely."

Planning for an effective recovery

There are certain steps that you can take to prepare yourself, your space and your mindset for recovery after plastic surgery. Here is what our experts would recommend doing in advance.

Your first step to success is to take the time to discuss the process with your surgeon.

"In order to maximize recovery, I print out and verbally go over postop instructions with each patient," said Dr. Kaweski. "I also invite family to be in the room. So, if the patient is not listening, hopefully, the significant other is, and, if not, there is a written paper for their perusal."

Getting ready for any surgical procedure isn't something that you should leave to the last minute – always make sure that you take adequate time and really focus on getting everything ready.

"Effective preparation can help minimize discomfort, reduce the risk of complications and ensure a smoother, faster recovery," said Dr. Hadeed.

Before undergoing any surgical procedure, ensure that your home is prepared in advance for your recovery. Whether it's doing a deep clean or stocking up on your medications, this step can help minimize stress and unnecessary movement following your surgery.

"Do your laundry and clean your house before your procedure," said Dr. Kaweski. "Stock up your refrigerator with foods, and if you need to be on a soft diet, prepare for that. So, it is important to think ahead and be prepared. Recovery is a time to rest and relax in order to heal!"

Arrange help with chores or childcare if necessary because often you will have restrictions on lifting or other strenuous activities.

The recovery period isn't just about the day of the operation, but rather, it's often multiple days or weeks following. That means that in addition to making sure that your space is adequately prepared for your immediate recovery, it's important to think about the days and weeks following when getting ready.

"Understand the procedure and recovery timeline, including pain management and any restrictions on activity," said Dr. Hadeed.

Maximizing your recovery at any age

For any patient who is considering undergoing a plastic surgery procedure, it's important to remember that the recovery process is just as important as the procedure itself. This process can be affected by the age of the patient, with younger patients "bouncing back" more quickly than their more mature counterparts.

No matter what your age, there are certain steps that you can take to set yourself up for a successful and stress-free recovery process, such as planning ahead and understanding the process from start to finish. With adequate planning, you'll be well on your way to recovery and achieving the results that you've been dreaming of!

To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.