Proper nutrition is very important during recovery after pilonidal cyst surgery. Adequate supply of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins fosters recovery and decreases the risk of complications.

Protein

While preparing meals, pay attention to the amount of protein, as it is the building material of our bodies and without it regeneration processes are impossible. Protein rich foods include meat, fish, and legumes. The demand for protein is calculated based on many factors, e.g. age, body weight, health status, and patient activity. It is assumed that average protein intake should be 0.8–1 gram per kilogram of body weight.

Simple carbohydrates

For a few weeks after the Bascom Cleft Lift procedure it is recommended to avoid intense exercise and activities that could cause wound dehiscence. Limited physical activity decreases the daily caloric requirement, and therefore during the recovery process it is advised to limit the amount of simple carbohydrates. White bread and processed foods, such as cookies, contain a large amount of sugars and are not beneficial for health.

Vitamins and supplements

The quality of foods that are currently available as well as cooking cause deficiencies of vitamins and micro and macro-elements even with balanced diets. Even though mild vitamin deficiencies often remain unnoticed, they may influence the duration and course of recovery and postsurgical wound healing.

Prior to the procedure of shallowing the intergluteal cleft and for 6 weeks after the procedure, the following supplements are recommended:

Vitamin A – 1000 IU/day

Vitamin C – between 1000 and 2000 mg/day

Zinc – 15 mg/day

Magnesium – between 120 and 250 mg/day

Arginine – 3000 mg/day

Glutamine – 3000 mg/day

Glucosamine – 300 mg/day

Vitamin D3 – 5000 IU/day

Vitamin K2 – 100 µg/day

Vitamin A, D and K belong to the group of fat-soluble vitamins. To make sure they absorb well, it is recommended to enrich the diet with good quality oils containing unsaturated fatty acids, e.g. colza oil or linseed oil.

Probiotics

Following the Bascom Cleft Lift oral antibiotics are used to prevent infection. Antibiotics, which are meant to eliminate pathogenic bacteria, also influence natural intestinal microflora and thus it is recommended to use probiotics not only during antibiotic therapy, but also for several months after its discontinuation.

Due to the location of the pilonidal cyst inside the intergluteal cleft, the recovery after Bascom Cleft Lift requires maximum support in terms of wound care and body nutrition. Adequate hydration, balanced diet rich in protein and fresh vegetables as well as adequate supplementation foster the regeneration processes and effective postsurgical wound healing.