Living with chronic migraine can affect every part of your life. When medications, lifestyle changes, and other treatments don’t bring enough relief, migraine surgery may offer a new path forward.
The procedure targets the specific nerves that trigger migraine pain, helping many patients experience fewer and less severe attacks.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Christopher Brooks, MD, and his team at Brooks Plastic Surgery in Hollywood, Florida, are committed to providing personalized care to every patient. Knowing what to expect after surgery can help you feel more comfortable, confident, and prepared for recovery.
After migraine surgery, most patients go home the same day or the next morning. You’ll likely feel some tenderness, swelling, or mild discomfort in the areas where the procedure was performed. It is normal and usually improves within the first few days.
Our team will provide detailed instructions on how to maintain the area's cleanliness, manage any discomfort, and recognize signs of infection or irritation.
You may be advised to rest for a few days and avoid strenuous activity until Dr. Brooks clears you to resume regular activity. Light walking and gentle movements are often recommended to promote circulation and support the healing process.
Pain after surgery is generally manageable, and Dr. Brooks may recommend over-the-counter or prescribed medication for short-term relief.
As your body heals, you may begin to notice minor improvements in your migraine symptoms. Some people experience a reduction in the frequency or intensity of headaches immediately, while others notice gradual changes over several weeks. It’s essential to remember that recovery is unique to each individual.
During this period, mild numbness or tingling may occur near the incision sites as the nerves adjust. Swelling and slight bruising are also common but should steadily improve. Keeping your follow-up appointments allows Dr. Brooks to track your healing progress and make any necessary adjustments to your recovery plan.
Migraine surgery does not eliminate migraine instantly, and results can take time to develop fully. Most patients begin to see significant improvement within a few months as the nerves settle and inflammation decreases. It’s essential to allow your body time to heal and to keep a symptom diary to monitor your progress.
If you still experience occasional headaches, Dr. Brooks can help you adjust medications or explore therapies to enhance your results. Maintaining open communication with us helps ensure you receive the best long-term outcome.
Dr. Brooks will give you specific guidelines for caring for your incision areas. You’ll likely need to keep the sites clean and dry for the first few days, then gently wash them once Dr. Brooks says it’s safe to do so. Avoid applying lotions or ointments unless specifically recommended, as they can interfere with the healing process.
If you notice any redness, drainage, or increased pain, please contact us immediately. These could be signs of infection that need prompt attention. Most incisions heal smoothly with minimal scarring, especially when you follow aftercare instructions carefully.
Most people can return to light activities and work within one to two weeks, depending on the type of surgery and their individual recovery. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or high-impact movements should wait until Dr. Brooks approves. Getting enough rest, eating nourishing foods, and staying hydrated all help your body recover faster.
It’s common to feel emotional ups and downs during the recovery process. Migraine headaches can take a toll on daily life, and the hope of lasting relief can bring both excitement and anxiety. Be patient with yourself as your body adjusts to the changes. Support from friends, family, and our team can make this time easier.
For many patients, migraine surgery leads to a significant reduction in both the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Some experience long-term relief, while others continue to have occasional, milder headaches. Regular follow-up visits enable Dr. Brooks to monitor your progress and ensure the longevity of your results.
Dr. Brooks may recommend adopting ongoing lifestyle habits that support migraine prevention, such as managing stress, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and staying hydrated. These small daily choices can enhance the long-term success of your surgery.
Choosing migraine surgery is a big step, but it can also be life-changing. Understanding what to expect after the procedure helps you feel more in control and reassured throughout recovery. Contact our office or schedule a consultation online for a personalized appointment.
