CHICAGO-AREA PATIENTS NOT ONLY CAN AVOID UNNECESSARY DRUGS, BUT SHOULD AVOID THEM
Would you rather manage post-surgical pain, or prevent it from starting in the first place? Dr. Iteld firmly believes in the benefits of addressing pain before you even feel it, which shapes his mission at Iteld Plastic Surgery. When it comes to his innovative Smart Recovery?, the Chicago-based plastic surgeon explains this simple truth to his patients: You don’t have to worry about pain that doesn’t exist.
Long-acting local anesthetics and evolving technology have made recovery from plastic surgery more comfortable than ever before. Taking the extra step to create a better experience for each patient via his Smart Recovery? protocol is not a guessing game, but a carefully planned procedural approach Dr. Iteld has worked for years to develop and perfect.
Procedure Spotlight
How Smart Recovery℠ Works
Eliminating unnecessary drugs after surgery begins by putting specifically selected medications to work prior to any incisions being made. These include special anti-inflammatory medications to reduce the sensation of throbbing and aching, medication to reduce nerve sensitivity, and a pill to reduce the risk of nausea.
During the procedure itself, long-acting local anesthetics are injected into the surgical site. These are designed to release gradually over the following two to three days, giving you the recovery time you need without pain..
By the time these are fully released, you’re well on your way to being able to deal with any residual discomfort. After surgery, he also adds muscle relaxants, when appropriate, to deal with spasms that may add discomfort.
These medications work together to equal—and frequently exceed—the analgesia used with more traditional techniques. Additionally, side effects are eliminated. That means no surgery-related sedation, nausea, constipation, and confusion, allowing patients to resume their typical activities and lifestyle within hours, not days.
Since introducing and refining this protocol, Dr. Iteld has found that most patients require only Tylenol® during their recovery period—and they virtually never report a need for anything stronger. On the rare occasions that over-the-counter solutions aren’t enough to manage a patient’s pain, Dr. Iteld prescribes an appropriate pain reliever for a couple of days.
Procedure Spotlight
Iteld Plastic Surgery Reviews
I can’t recommend Dr. Iteld and his team enough! Dr. Iteld is incredibly knowledgeable, experienced, caring, and brings such a positive energy that made feel comfortable and confident throughout the entire process. He thoroughly explained my implant options and set realistic expectations for what would work best for my body and goals. I always felt like I was in great hands and that he genuinely cared about helping me achieve the best results. Kimmy is amazing as well! She carefully analyzed my skin and shared so much expertise on skincare treatments tailored to my needs. Everyone in the office is so kind and welcoming. I’m now two and half months post-op, and I am absolutely in love with my results! They’re exactly what I was hoping for. Dr. Iteld truly exceeded my expectations. I’m so grateful for the exceptional care I received. I highly recommend Dr. Iteld and his team!
I couldn’t be happier with my experience with Dr. Iteld and the entire team! From my very first consultation, I felt completely comfortable, listened to, and confident that I was in the right hands. Dr. Iteld took the time to understand exactly what I wanted and explained everything thoroughly, while also giving honest and professional recommendations.The entire process—from consultation through surgery and follow-up—was incredibly smooth. The staff was kind, attentive, and always made me feel well cared for. I especially appreciated how responsive they were to my questions and how much they prioritized my comfort and safety.My results have exceeded my expectations. Everything looks natural, balanced, and exactly in line with what I was hoping for. Pain was also well controlled. I’m so glad I chose Dr. Iteld and would absolutely recommend him to anyone considering plastic surgery. I truly couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
Doctor Iteld is wonderful!I had the best experience with hi. Everyone of his staff are a pleasure to work with! And the results are amazing!
I had a great experience. Everyone is courteous, very friendly and helpful; and my procedure was explained to me step by step so I could understand and be prepared as of what to expect. Excellent job; Thank you
I can’t speak highly enough of Dr. Iteld and his team. Everything from the consult -> surgery -> post OP care has been extremely thorough and attentive. Dr. Iteld is very caring and a professional in every manner. Would recommend him to everyone!!Additionally, the rest of the team has been such a pleasure to interact with. Shout out to Caryle and Ashley. I look forward to my appointments because I get to interact with these lovely people!!
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Average Rating
Smart Recovery℠ FAQS
Why is this innovative smart approach a better way to recover?
Dr. Iteld talks about his better way to recover, published in Modern Aesthetics. Read this important article about why it’s time to rethink the standard approach to plastic surgery patient care.
Which plastic surgery options can have Smart Recovery?
Nearly every plastic surgery Dr. Iteld offers where he makes an incision can have his Smart Recovery? process. This includes:
- All breast procedures: Augmentation, Reduction, Lift, and Reconstruction
- Tummy tuck
- Liposculpture/Liposuction
- Brazilian butt lifts
- Arm, thigh, and body lifts
- Male breast reduction
- Facelift
Don’t see the procedure you’re considering listed here? Talk to Dr. Iteld about the possibilities for the surgery you have in mind.
What will Smart Recovery be like?
Regardless of your procedure, and the fact that you are not using unwanted medications to manage pain, your body still needs time to recover. The recuperation window varies from patient to patient and depends on the procedure. It’s important to remember that different people heal at different rates. That said, you can generally expect the following:
- a few hours of grogginess immediately after surgery
- surgical incisions that should be monitored as they heal
- some swelling, tenderness, and/or bruising around the site
- generalized aching for a few days, much like how you feel the day after a really hard workout at the gym
You’ll need to reduce your movements and activity levels for a few days or weeks depending on the procedure performed. Dr. Iteld and his team will guide you through the recovery process and get you back to normal life as soon as possible.
MEET LAWRENCE ITELD, MD
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
RealSelf VERIFIED doctor
Lawrence Iteld, MD, is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and a highly regarded Chicago based plastic surgeon, receiving awards from Chicago Magazine’s Top Docs, and Castle Connolly Top Doctors®.