Anesthesia, pain medication and reduced movement conspire to slow the digestive system. The most common avoidable discomfort we see in the first week is not surgical pain — it is constipation and dehydration.
Hydration comes first. Aim for steady sips throughout the day rather than large volumes at once. Electrolyte drinks help, but keep sugar moderate. Your nurse will track intake alongside output.
Protein supports tissue repair. Soft, easy sources work best early: Greek yogurt, eggs, bone broth, protein shakes, cottage cheese, flaked fish. Facial and jaw clients on soft-diet restrictions can meet targets entirely with blended and spoonable foods.
Reduce sodium meaningfully for the first two weeks. Excess salt visibly worsens swelling, which is already the dominant complaint in week one.
Begin a stool softener as soon as your surgeon permits, not once you have a problem. Add fiber gently with fruit, oats and vegetables as your appetite returns.
Skip alcohol entirely while on pain medication and until cleared. It increases bruising, dehydration and fall risk.
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is general education about recovery support and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Boca Post Operative Care does not perform surgery and does not replace your surgeon. Always follow the written discharge instructions provided by your operating surgeon, and call your surgeon or 911 for any urgent or emergency concern.
Keep reading
- Preparing for Surgery: The Two Weeks Before
A calm, well-prepared start makes the first 72 hours dramatically easier. Here is what we ask every client to have handled before the day arrives.
- Preparing Your Recovery Space
Where you recover matters as much as who cares for you. A room-by-room guide to setting up a healing space.
- Mobility: Moving Safely in the First Week
Short, frequent, supported movement lowers your clot risk and speeds recovery. Here is how it should actually look.