When you hear “post-surgery drinks,” we hate to break it to you, but no, we’re not talking about a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or your go-to cocktail. (We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but yeah—those are off the table for now.) The good news is the right recovery bevies can be just as satisfying and they can actually help your body heal. Ahead, we’re serving up the four best drinks to sip post-surgery, complete with expert-backed intel from NYC-based plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgeon, Dr. Krishna Vyas, MD, PhD, MHS on why they deserve a spot in your recovery plan. 

Thanks to bromelain—an anti-inflammatory enzyme found in pineapple, this tropical juice may help minimize post-operative bruising and swelling. 

The Plastic Surgeon’s POV: “A recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving preservation rhinoplasty patients showed that those who took bromelain experienced a reduction in subconjunctival hemorrhage and ecchymosis at one week compared to the placebo group,” says Dr. Vyas. “Similarly, another randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study examining the effects of pineapple extract with bromelain following mandibular third molar extraction found that bromelain supplementation reduced swelling and the need for ibuprofen.”

Do yourself a favor and skip the protein shakes loaded with sugar or unnecessary additives. That said, protein is a must—it helps rebuild skin, muscle, and connective tissues and delivers amino acids that support your immune system for the backup your body needs to heal properly.

The Plastic Surgeon’s POV: “Adequate protein intake is essential for optimal wound healing and recovery in plastic surgery, particularly for patients with a history of significant weight loss or bariatric surgery,” Dr. Vyas adds. “These patients are often at risk for protein-calorie malnutrition, which can negatively impact surgical outcomes, including delayed wound healing and increased complication rates.”

Not only will coconut water transport you to a tropical state of mind, but it also replenishes your body’s electrolytes to keep things running smoothly and help you stay hydrated post-surgery.

The Plastic Surgeon’s POV: “Coconut water can complement other recovery fluids, especially because of its antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and support cellular health,” explains Dr. Vyas. “Research has shown that these antioxidants can lower cytosolic oxidation in human dermal fibroblasts.”

Bone broth is the perfect excuse to jump on the wellness world’s favorite drink. It contains collagen, which supports skin, muscles, and connective tissues, making it a recovery MVP. Bonus: it also keeps you hydrated.

The Plastic Surgeon’s POV: “Bone broth can serve as a beneficial addition to other recovery fluids for plastic surgery patients, due to its collagen and amino acid content, which are essential for effective wound healing,” says Dr. Vyas.

These drinks are delicious (and good for you) whether you're recovering from surgery or not. So happy sipping! And if you're currently healing and need some entertainment to go with your drink, we have just the thing.

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