Spring of 2020 is shaping up to be uniquely challenging for us in New York City, as well as our fellow Americans, and the entire world. The extensive widespread effects of the COVID-19 virus have resulted in a multifaceted crisis – with personal, professional, social, financial, and economic consequences. As we all find strength in the heroic efforts of medical personnel and scientific leaders, and in helping one another, we also look for guidance in how best to navigate these difficult times.
Since current legislation prevents our practice from performing elective surgeries, and as we look forward to once again providing the very best in aesthetic procedures for our patients, we have compiled a few helpful suggestions for you. We will eventually offer all the surgical enhancements that benefit patients both physically and psychologically. In the interim, here is a short list of “Do’s and Don’ts” – ways in which you can optimize your health and wellness at home – whether you’re in quarantine, self-isolation, or merely limiting outside exposures:
- DO stay active, DON’T overdo it. Regular physical exercise in many forms, including calisthenics, Pilates, yoga, walking, or any of the myriad fitness classes available online, is of paramount importance. Aerobic activities help keep your body and mind healthy. And although cardio and conditioning are advisable, there’s no need for weekend warriors and possible injury, so you’re best off to set tangible goals and only do as much as you can.
- DO maintain a healthy diet, DON’T try extreme dieting. Alongside exercise, eating a well balanced diet is essential to your health. You may have plenty of time to try new recipes, experiment in the kitchen, or learn new cooking skills. Even so, make sure you maintain proper nutrition, and avoid crash diets or fads. Include a good amount of anti-oxidants, which benefit your immune system, and consider boosting your Vitamin D intake, which may have decreased as you spend less time outdoors in sunlight.
- DO keep a skincare regimen, DON’T attempt anything radical. Less exposure to the elements – such as sun, cold, and wind -may actually help your skin look younger and better. Although you may want to try new facial treatments, such as exfoliating acid peels or revitalizing masks, don’t go to extremes trying to recreate a professional procedure only your plastic surgeon could perform. A do-it-yourself hair style will grow out but skin burns from a radical treatment can leave permanent skin damage or pigmentation issues.
- DO follow social distancing and cover your face, DON’T take unnecessary risks. We are all looking forward to returning to pre-pandemic status, and abiding by these rules will help us all reach our new normal as soon as possible. Limiting activities and interactions now will minimize risk to yourself and others.
- DO stay optimistic, DON’T give up! Look for role models in others who have withstood greater hardships than our current ordeal and are doing good deeds. For instance, Captain Tom Moore, a 99-year-old WWII British Army veteran, raised over $30M for the National Health Services charity by walking 100 laps in his garden. Striving to complete feasible projects and planning for future events, vacations, or cosmetic procedures are good ways to stay focused on the road ahead.
Stay safe and healthy, we look forward to providing you with the utmost in plastic surgery care once we are given the all clear in NYC to help you look and feel your very best.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a board certified female plastic surgeon in New York City with advanced specialized fellowship training in aesthetic surgery. Her practice on Manhattan’s Upper East Side is dedicated to cosmetic surgery of the face, breast, and body, providing natural results using the most advanced techniques and shortest scars. Our office is equipped with a fully certified AAAASF Operating Room for the safety, privacy, and convenience of our patients. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Hutchinson, please contact us or call us at (212) 452-1400.
