Recovery

Post-Operative Pain Management

Dr Danie Hoffmann3 min read

A layered approach: local anaesthetic at surgery, regular non-opioid painkillers, and short-term stronger cover for the first 48–72 hours.

Modern post-operative pain management uses several methods together. During surgery, long-acting local anaesthetic is infiltrated into the operative area, which provides several hours of good pain control after you wake up. In the first 24–48 hours, regular paracetamol and an anti-inflammatory keep pain from building. Stronger short-term opioid pain relief is prescribed for the first few days if the operation warrants it.

The most common mistake is waiting for pain to become severe before taking the next dose. Regular, on-schedule pain relief in the first 48–72 hours is far more effective than reactive dosing.

Most aesthetic patients are off stronger painkillers within a week and managing on paracetamol and an anti-inflammatory beyond that. If pain is worsening rather than steadily improving after day 4, contact the rooms — it is not typical and needs review.

Educational content only. Results vary between individuals and all surgery carries risk. Every plan begins with an unhurried consultation and an examination — never a quote over the phone.

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