Signs of Infection: What to Look for During Your Plastic Surgery Recovery
If you’re planning or recovering from plastic surgery—whether it’s a tummy tuck, mommy makeover, or liposuction—you're probably focused on your transformation and how quickly you can get back to feeling like yourself again. But there's something you shouldn’t overlook in the recovery process: infections. While it's completely normal to feel some discomfort and experience certain symptoms after surgery, spotting the early signs of infection can make all the difference in ensuring your recovery goes smoothly.
As a busy woman, you’re likely looking for the most efficient way to heal. You want to minimize downtime, avoid complications, and get back to being your best self as soon as possible. This is where the expertise of Vital Massage & Bodywork comes in. We’re a mobile medical massage therapy practice serving the Orlando area, specializing in manual lymphatic drainage massage therapy. Our services help speed up recovery and reduce discomfort without you ever having to leave home.
Let’s dive into the signs of infection you need to be aware of during your recovery.
Why You Need to Watch for Signs of Infection
Infections are one of the most common complications that can arise after surgery, and they can definitely slow down your recovery if not addressed quickly. Whether you’ve had a tummy tuck, a BBL, or liposuction, there are certain signs that can indicate an infection. If caught early, infections can often be treated with antibiotics, preventing further issues and complications that might extend your healing time.
The sooner you spot these signs, the sooner you can get help—and we want to make sure you're equipped to do just that.
1. Redness and Swelling That Doesn't Fade
Some redness is normal after surgery as your body works to heal itself, but if the redness around your incision doesn’t start to fade within a few days or seems to be getting worse, that could be a sign of infection. The same goes for swelling. Swelling is a natural part of the healing process, but if it doesn’t seem to subside or keeps getting worse, it could be more than just normal post-op swelling. Excessive swelling can be a sign that your body is struggling to heal properly, and this could indicate an infection.
Lymphatic massage therapy, like the services we offer at Vital Massage & Bodywork, helps your body drain excess fluids and promote healing, which can help reduce swelling and prevent complications like infections. We can help tell you what level of swelling seems normal and what might be a cause for concern. You don’t have to go at it alone!
2. Pus or Discharge
Okay, let’s get real! A little bit of drainage from your incision might happen during the first few days after surgery, but if you notice thick, yellow, green, or foul-smelling discharge, it’s time to take action. This can be a clear sign of infection, and you should contact your doctor immediately. Don’t wait to see if it gets better on its own. This is a sign that the infection is escalating quickly and your body is doing its best to fight it.
3. Fever or Chills
A persistent fever and chills is another major sign that might indicate an infection. If you experience a fever along with chills, body aches, or fatigue, it might be time to reach out to your doctor.
4. More Pain Than Expected
Post-surgery pain is normal, but if you experience an increase in pain around the incision site or if the area seems unusually hot to the touch, it might be a sign of infection. This can be caused by inflammation or the body’s immune response to bacteria. If the pain doesn't subside with rest, or pain medication doesn’t seem to help, don’t ignore it. Contact your healthcare provider.
5. Unpleasant Odors
Your surgical site should not emit an unpleasant smell. A foul or unusual odor coming from your incision is a classic sign of infection. Healthy tissue doesn’t smell bad, so if you notice anything that seems off, reach out to your healthcare provider.
What to Do If You Suspect an Infection
If you notice any of the signs of infection above, don’t wait. Early detection is key to preventing further complications, so be proactive. Reach out to your surgeon or healthcare provider right away to discuss your symptoms.
We recommend Mobile Wound Care Orlando: House Calls MDs to help you navigate wound healing.
How Vital Massage & Bodywork Can Help
Don’t wait for discomfort to turn into something more serious. If you’re recovering from surgery and want to ensure your healing process is smooth and speedy, Vital Massage & Bodywork is here for you. Our mobile services allow us to bring the therapy directly to your home, ensuring maximum comfort and convenience.
Book your consultation now with Vital Massage & Bodywork and take the next step toward a smoother, faster recovery.
