Electing to have plastic surgery is a very personal and often emotional journey. At Edina Plastic Surgery, we believe the experience should be empowering, supported, and as stress-free as possible. One of the most impactful ways to ensure a smooth recovery is having a solid support system of family and friends lined up well before your surgery day.
Whether you’re the one preparing for surgery or someone close to a patient, this guide will walk you through the many ways loved ones can help make the process safer and more comfortable. Planning ahead and mapping out responsibilities isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Recovery isn’t the time to “tough it out” or go it alone. It’s the time to lean into support.
Here are seven practical ways your family and friends can help you prepare for and recover from your procedure at Edina Plastic Surgery.
#1 – Preparing the Home for Your Recovery
Before your procedure, one of the best gifts a loved one can give is helping to create a safe, clean, and comforting space to recover in. This includes giving the home a thorough clean to reduce the risk of infection, especially in areas where you will spend the majority of your time post-op, like the bedroom, bathroom, and couch. Clutter should be cleared from pathways to minimize tripping hazards, and recovery areas like couches, recliners, and beds should be thoughtfully prepared with extra pillows to support you in different positions after surgery and blankets to keep you warm. Also not the height of beds, couches, toilets, and bathtubs and gather any assistive equipment, like foot stools, you may need to comfortable access them.
Depending on your procedure, you may need to sleep in a slightly upright position or avoid lying flat. Setting up your recovery “nest” in advance, with access to medications, water, snacks, phone chargers, and the TV remote, can make those early days much more comfortable. Think of it as curating a healing sanctuary tailored to your physical and emotional needs.
#2 – Prepping Healthy Meals Ahead of Time
After surgery, your body will be working hard to heal. Having nourishing meals ready to go can be a huge relief. Friends and family can help by preparing healthy meals that are easy to heat and serve, such as soups, casseroles, grilled veggies, and lean proteins. Stocking the fridge with quick, nutritious snacks like yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, protein bars, and pre-washed fruits and veggies is also a great idea.
Meal prepping isn’t just about convenience. It’s about giving your body the nutrients it needs to repair tissue, fight inflammation, and maintain energy. And let’s be honest, heating up a warm, home-cooked dish is way better than grabbing something overly processed or ordering takeout when you’re not feeling your best.
#3 – Arranging Childcare and Pet Care
Depending on the procedure you’re having at Edina Plastic Surgery, your surgeon may advise against lifting anything over 10 pounds during recovery. This restriction often includes babies, toddlers, and even medium-sized pets. That’s why arranging for childcare and pet care well in advance is crucial.
Loved ones can help by taking over duties with children like feeding, playtime, diaper/clothing changes, and explaining to kids why they should not jump or climb on you. If you have pets, they’ll also need help with feeding, walking, and most importantly, staying calm around you. Animals often want to jump up or snuggle close, which could pose risks to healing incisions. Planning for these responsibilities beforehand removes unnecessary stress and allows you to focus on your recovery.
#4 – Providing a Ride to and from Surgery
Patients must be accompanied by a trusted adult who can drive them to and from Edina Plastic Surgery on the day of surgery. Due to anesthesia and post-operative medications, driving yourself is not safe or permitted. But beyond simply being a ride, this person also plays a key role in post-op support.
They’ll stay at the clinic during your procedure, assist with checking out, and swing by the pharmacy on the way home to pick up prescriptions. Once you’re home, they’ll help you get settled in and comfortable and help manage your medications. Choose someone reliable, calm, and nurturing. With general anesthetic, you’ll need an adult with you for 24 hours after your surgery.
#5 – Assisting in the First 72 Hours
The first three days after surgery are typically when patients need the most hands-on help. Depending on your procedure, you may feel groggy, sore, or limited in your mobility. During this window, having someone assist with basic daily activities like walking to the bathroom, getting in and out of bed, preparing snacks, and helping you stay on top of your pain medications is incredibly helpful.
Some procedures may involve surgical drains, wound dressings, or compression garments that require daily care. Showering and changing clothes can also be challenging at first. It’s okay to lean on someone during this time. Recovery isn’t glamorous, and you don’t need to be proud. Let your support system show up for you the way they want to.
#6 – Running Errands and Managing the Day-to-Day
Even small errands can feel overwhelming when you’re healing. That’s why having someone on standby to handle things like grocery shopping, picking up children from activities, taking out the trash, or feeding the cat can make a big difference in your recovery experience.
You’ll also be advised not to drive for a certain period, especially while taking prescription pain medications. Planning in advance for someone to help manage these daily tasks ensures that you can fully rest without feeling overwhelmed or guilty. Recovery should be your only job during this time.
#7 – Offering Moral and Emotional Support
Physical healing is just one part of the recovery process. The emotional side of surgery is often overlooked, but it’s just as important. Many patients describe feeling a bit stir-crazy or even a little down as they adjust to temporary limitations. For active, independent people, this can be especially frustrating.
That’s where moral support becomes a lifeline. Whether it’s a quick visit, a check-in text, or a funny show binge-watched together, small gestures from friends and family can lift your spirits and keep you grounded. Encouragement to stick to your recovery plan and not overdo it is also vital, because pushing yourself too soon can set you back.
What If I Don’t Have Support Nearby?
Not everyone has a network of friends or family nearby, and that’s okay. At Edina Plastic Surgery, we offer support options for patients who may be navigating recovery on their own. We partner with experienced concierge nursing services that can:
- Drive you to and from surgery
- Stay with you during your initial recovery period
- Help manage medications and wound care
- Provide peace of mind with professional support
You are never alone in your journey. We’re here to ensure you feel safe, cared for, and fully supported every step of the way.
Let’s Plan Your Support System Together
Every successful surgical outcome begins with thoughtful preparation, including who will be by your side during recovery. At Edina Plastic Surgery, we encourage patients to map out a recovery plan with their surgical team and include the people they trust most.
Ready to begin your journey? Schedule your complimentary consultation today and let us help you explore your procedure options, prepare your recovery plan, and connect you with the resources you need to feel fully supported. Whether your support system is made up of family, friends, or one of our trusted care providers, you deserve to feel confident, comfortable, and cared for.
Call (952) 592-5970 or text (952) 925-1765 to get started, or book your consultation online with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons. We can’t wait to partner with you!
