As a surgeon at Oregon Cosmetic and Reconstructive Clinic, I see every day how strongly our daily choices shape our healing. I often tell my patients that the same habits that increase healthspan—the number of years we live in good health—also improve surgical recovery. This connection motivates me, and I love sharing practical ways you can support your body before and after your procedure.
What Is Healthspan—and Why Does It Matter for Surgery?
We often talk about lifespan, which is simply how long we live. But healthspan focuses on how long we live with energy, mobility, and freedom from disease.
Healthspan asks: How many years can we live well?
When you build habits that increase healthspan, your body responds with stronger immunity, smoother healing, and lower complication risks after surgery. These habits don’t need to be extreme. Even small daily actions create meaningful improvements.
For more ways lifestyle choices treat disease, I recommend visiting greatmed.org for evidence-based resources.
Build a Support System Before Surgery
One of the most important habits happens outside the operating room—planning support for recovery. Healing feels easier and safer when you don’t do it alone.
Here are simple ways to prepare:
Ask for help early. A trusted friend or family member can assist with rides, check-ins, or light tasks.
Arrange support for pets. This might include dog-walking, feeding help, or temporary boarding.
Create a meal plan. A meal train or pre-made meals remove stress and help you eat nourishing foods while you rest.
Invite companionship. Even short visits can lift your mood and decrease anxiety during recovery.
These small steps keep your energy focused on healing—and I see the difference every day in my patients.
Choose Whole Foods to Support Immunity and Healing
Nutrition plays a major role in your recovery. I encourage patients to focus on whole foods that are plant-forward and to reduce ultra-processed foods before surgery.
This shift matters because:
Whole foods provide steady energy, fiber, and antioxidants.
Ultra-processed foods—like industrial frozen dinners, white bread, white rice, packaged snacks, and sugary drinks—cause quick blood sugar spikes.
High blood sugar levels increase the risk of infection and delay wound healing.
Instead, try to include:
Fresh vegetables and fruits
Beans and lentils
Whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, or oats
Nuts and seeds
Lean proteins like fish and chicken
Small daily improvements add up quickly, especially in the 2–4 weeks before surgery.
For more nutrition guidance, you can explore the resources at greatmed.org.
Move Your Body Regularly—Even Light Activity Helps
Regular physical activity boosts your healthspan and supports your surgical recovery. I often reassure patients that you don’t need a gym membership or intense workouts. Instead, aim for consistent, gentle movement.
Even a 15-minute walk after meals improves blood sugar control and supports digestion. These short walks also:
Reduce constipation after surgery
Improve your mood
Decrease muscle spasms
Encourage better circulation
Help you sleep more comfortably
Always check with your surgeon—we will guide you on what level of movement is safe at each step of recovery.
Healthy Habits Create Better Outcomes
When you build habits that increase your healthspan, your body becomes stronger, calmer, and more resilient. As your surgeon, I see how these choices support smoother recoveries, fewer complications, and more predictable outcomes.
At Oregon Cosmetic and Reconstructive Clinic, my goal is always to guide you toward the safest and most successful healing possible—both in and out of the operating room.
For more evidence-based guidance on healthy living, I encourage you to explore greatmed.org.
