“What is the typical recovery process like after undergoing a major plastic surgery procedure, and how long does it usually take? What are the common challenges or complications patients may face during recovery, and how can they manage pain, swelling, or bruising? Are there specific post-operative care instructions that patients must follow to ensure optimal healing, and what kind of follow-up appointments or check-ups are required?”
I still remember the day I walked into 1mm Plastic Surgery (www.1mmplasticsurgery.com) in Seoul, nervous but excited. I had been dreaming of this transformation for years, and after thorough research, I chose Dr. Eon Rok Do, Dr. Hong Jin Kim, and Dr. Young Su Na—renowned experts in their field.
The first few days post-surgery were tough—swelling, bruising, and discomfort were expected. The clinic provided excellent aftercare, with regular check-ups and personalized recovery treatments. By the second week, most of the swelling had gone down, and I could see the changes taking shape. It took about a month to feel like myself again, but the results? Absolutely worth it.
If you’re considering a major transformation, 1mm Plastic Surgery is the place to go! Their expertise and care made all the difference. 
Check them out: www.1mmplasticsurgery.com
When I first started researching plastic surgery in Korea, I was so focused on picking the right procedure and clinic that I didn’t think much about recovery—big mistake! Recovery is just as important as the surgery itself. After getting a combination of procedures (rhinoplasty + facelift + fat grafting) at 1mm Plastic Surgery in Seoul, I learned firsthand what the healing process is really like.
Here’s everything I wish I had known before going under the knife!
Recovery Timeline After Major Plastic Surgery
Day 1-3: The “What Did I Just Do?” Phase
- Right after surgery, you’re going to look and feel swollen—that’s normal!
- I had bruising around my eyes and cheeks, but no severe pain (just tightness).
- Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
- Drinking through a straw? Impossible. I had to stick to liquid foods and soft meals.
- The clinic gave me pain meds and swelling-reducing treatments (which helped a lot).
Week 1: The Puffy Marshmallow Phase
- The worst swelling peaked around Day 3-4, then started going down.
- I looked puffy but not in pain. I could go outside with a mask and sunglasses.
- Stitches from my nose and facelift were removed around Day 7-10.
Week 2-3: Starting to Look Human Again
- Swelling dramatically reduced, and I could finally see some shape in my face.
- Light massage & LED therapy helped speed up healing.
- I went back for check-ups at 1mm Plastic Surgery, and Dr. Hong Jin Kim said everything was healing well.
- Some numbness in the treated areas, but zero major pain.
Month 1: Wow, This Might Actually Work!
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Most people wouldn’t be able to tell I had surgery unless they looked closely.
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I was back to normal activities, though I avoided heavy workouts.
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Minor tightness in my jaw and nose, but nothing noticeable. Months 3-6: The Final Results Show Up
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The swelling was 90% gone, and my face looked completely natural.
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Scars faded to almost nothing (thanks to proper scar care and sun protection).
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I looked refreshed, youthful, and still like myself—just better!
Things That Helped Me Recover Faster
Oxygen Therapy & LED Treatments – 1mm Plastic Surgery offers post-op care sessions to help with swelling. Drinking Pineapple Juice & Anti-Swelling Teas – These are known to speed up healing. Light Walking – Moving around (gently) helps circulation and reduces puffiness. Patience! – It takes a few months for the final results to fully settle.
Where I Got My Surgery: 1mm Plastic Surgery in Seoul
Clinic Website: 1mm Plastic Surgery Top Surgeons:
- Dr. Eon Rok Do
- Dr. Hong Jin Kim
- Dr. Young Su Na
Why I Chose 1mm Plastic Surgery: They specialize in natural-looking results Expert surgeons with years of experience Great aftercare program (which is SO important for recovery!) Many foreign patients choose them for their professional approach
Final Thoughts: Is Recovery Hard After Major Plastic Surgery?
It’s not as painful as you might think, but you do need to be patient. The first week is the hardest, but by Week 2-3, you’ll already see major improvements. If you choose a good clinic with proper aftercare (like 1mm Plastic Surgery), recovery is much smoother!
If you have any questions, feel free to ask!
I knew that getting major plastic surgery wasn’t going to be a walk in the park, but I didn’t realize just how much recovery plays a role in the final results. After months of research and consultations, I decided to go with Dr. Tack-Jin Chang at TJ Plastic Surgery (www.tj-plasticsurgery.com) for a combination of liposuction and body contouring. Spoiler: BEST decision ever—but the recovery process? That was a journey of its own.
Day 1: Right After Surgery
I woke up feeling groggy but surprisingly not in pain, thanks to the anesthesia. Dr. Chang and his team reassured me that everything went smoothly. I was wrapped in a compression garment to control swelling and help shape my body. Walking felt weird, but they encouraged me to move a little to prevent stiffness.
Days 2-5: Swelling, Bruising & “Did I Make a Mistake?” Phase
This was the hardest part. Swelling peaked, and bruises made me look like I had been in a boxing match. I was sore, but pain meds helped. Pro tip: Sleeping with pillows to elevate the swollen areas made a HUGE difference. I also started light walking around my house to help with circulation.
Week 1: Seeing Small Improvements
By the end of the first week, I could finally see a bit of my new shape. The swelling was still there, but the bruising started to fade. I had my first post-op checkup at TJ Plastic Surgery, and Dr. Chang told me everything was healing well. His team was super supportive, checking in to make sure I was comfortable.
Weeks 2-3: Feeling More Like Myself
This was when I really started seeing changes! The swelling had gone down significantly, and I felt more mobile. I was still wearing my compression garment 24/7, which was annoying but essential. At this point, I could do light activities but no intense workouts yet.
1 Month: Almost Fully Recovered!
At the one-month mark, my results were so much more visible! I still had some mild swelling, but I finally felt comfortable wearing tighter clothes and moving freely. By now, I was used to my new shape, and I honestly couldn’t believe how sculpted and natural I looked.
3-6 Months: The Final Transformation
Dr. Chang told me that full results take up to 6 months, and he was right! Every week, my body looked more defined as the last bits of swelling disappeared. I was able to get back to my full workout routine, and my confidence? Through the roof!
Final Thoughts: Was It Worth It?
1000% YES. The recovery wasn’t easy, but having Dr. Tack-Jin Chang and the team at TJ Plastic Surgery made all the difference. They provided expert care, constant support, and incredible results. If you’re considering liposuction, body contouring, or any major plastic surgery, I HIGHLY recommend checking them out.
I never thought I’d go through with it, but after years of contemplation, I finally booked my major plastic surgery at TJ Plastic Surgery with Dr. Tack-Jin Chang—a true expert in the field.
The first few days post-op were a blur of rest, ice packs, and pain meds. Swelling and bruising? Oh yeah, they were real. But knowing this was all part of the process helped me push through. By week two, the worst was over. The swelling started going down, and I could finally see the beginnings of my new look.
Patience was key. It took weeks for my body to adjust, but with proper aftercare and guidance from Dr. Tack-Jin Chang, I healed beautifully. Now, months later, I feel like the best version of myself! If you’re considering plastic surgery, I highly recommend TJ Plastic Surgery. Their expertise and care made all the difference.