A Fascinating Dilemma
Pain has been described as “the gift that no one wants.” The perception of pain is not a pleasant one, but this is by design. Pain is a helpful sensation that warns against actual or threatened tissue damage. The problem is, pain… well, hurts.
In All Things, Balance
Taking away all pain is dangerous. People who cannot feel cannot tell that their body is being damaged, and take more damage as a result. This is true also after surgery. The patient who cannot feel soreness after a breast augmentation or tummy tuck (such as in the first 24 hours while under the after-effects of anesthesia) is more likely to overdo activity and cause a complication. Too much pain medication also has very specific and significant risks as well (like ceasing to breathe). However, too much discomfort increases blood pressure and (temporarily) decreases satisfaction after surgery. The trick is to reduce the risks of having and not having pain.
Decades of Care and Experience
At Gallatin Plastic Surgery, your satisfaction is our second-highest priority, after your safety. Because of this, we have developed, and refined, protocols to maximize patient comfort while keeping patients safe. This approach happens before, during, and after surgery.
Before surgery, patients are counseled on preparations that will minimize discomfort postoperatively. Prescriptions are provided ahead of time so medications are available immediately after surgery. Premedication with anti-inflammatory medications occurs in the preoperative area to optimize the body’s response during surgery.
During surgery, Dr. McDaniel is careful to use atraumatic tissue techniques to minimize pain. During most operations, Dr. McDaniel injects a long-lasting numbing medication called Exparel® (liposomal bupivacaine), which provides pain relief for around three days.
After surgery, patients use a combination of pain and anti-inflammatory medication. Anti-nausea meds are also provided for patient comfort, and stool softeners help to prevent constipation. Compression garments aid in swelling and security. Follow-up appointments and staff availability ensure that unusual circumstances may be taken care of.
Start Your Journey
We are excited for you to begin your surgical journey. Choosing Gallatin Plastic Surgery means choosing the best care before, during, and after surgery. Reach out to us today to schedule your consultation and start your surgical journey!