Frequently Asked Questions
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A
Recovery experience varies by procedure:
**General Timeline:**
• **Days 1-3**: Most discomfort, significant swelling/bruising
• **Days 4-7**: Improving daily, stitches/cast may be removed
• **Weeks 2-4**: Swelling reduces significantly, can return to light activities
• **Months 1-3**: Continued improvement, okay to resume exercise
• **6-12 months**: Final results as all swelling resolves
**What to Expect:**
• Some pain and discomfort (manageable with medication)
• Swelling and bruising (varies by procedure)
• Dietary restrictions (especially for facial/jaw surgery)
• Activity limitations
• Follow-up appointments
**Recovery Support:**
Many clinics offer recovery care, and Korea has "recovery houses" specifically for plastic surgery patients. Read patient reviews to learn about real recovery experiences.
Recovery
A
Safe flying timelines by procedure:
• **Double Eyelid Surgery**: 5-7 days
• **Rhinoplasty**: 7-10 days (after cast removal)
• **Facial Contouring (Jaw)**: 14-21 days minimum
• **Facelift**: 10-14 days
• **Liposuction**: 7-10 days
• **Breast Augmentation**: 7-14 days
**Why Wait?**
• Cabin pressure can worsen swelling
• Risk of bleeding or complications
• Need to attend follow-up appointments
• Should be stable before long flight
**Flying Tips:**
• Wear compression garments if instructed
• Stay hydrated
• Walk periodically during flight
• Have medications easily accessible
• Consider booking an aisle seat
Recovery
A
Recovery accommodation options:
**1. Recovery Houses (회복실/리커버리하우스)**
• Designed specifically for plastic surgery patients
• Often near Gangnam clinics
• Include meals, cleaning, and basic care
• Staff can help with recovery needs
• Cost: $80-200/night
**2. Hotels**
• Serviced apartments or hotel rooms
• More independence and privacy
• Choose locations near your clinic
• Some hotels cater to medical tourists
**3. Airbnb**
• Home-like environment
• Kitchen for preparing soft foods
• More space than hotel rooms
• Book in Gangnam or Sinsa area for convenience
**Tips:**
• Stay within 20 minutes of your clinic
• Ensure elevator access
• Consider proximity to convenience stores and pharmacies
Check our international patient guide for more accommodation recommendations.
Recovery
A
Post-surgery diet recommendations:
**For Facial/Jaw Surgery:**
• Week 1-2: Liquid only (soup broth, smoothies, protein shakes)
• Week 2-4: Soft foods (porridge, mashed potatoes, yogurt, tofu)
• Week 4+: Gradually return to normal foods
• Avoid: chewy, hard, or spicy foods
**General Surgery:**
• Protein-rich foods for healing
• Plenty of fluids (avoid alcohol)
• Fruits and vegetables for vitamins
• Avoid salty foods (increases swelling)
• Avoid spicy foods (can increase inflammation)
**Helpful Korean Options:**
• Juk (죽) - rice porridge
• Seaweed soup (미역국)
• Soft tofu stew (순두부찌개)
• Convenience store protein drinks
Your clinic will provide specific dietary guidelines. Read patient reviews for helpful recovery diet tips from real patients.
Recovery
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