You might not immediately think “winter” when planning, but surprisingly, that’s the season most surgeons give the green light.
While we usually imagine strutting our stuff in a bikini or tank top during the summer post-surgery, the magic doesn’t happen overnight. The planning, the treatment, and bouncing back all need their moment, which is why it’s smart to schedule your cosmetic surgery adventure in the chillier fall and winter months.
Need more convincing? Here are the reasons why you should get whatever body contouring surgery you’re contemplating during the chilly months.
Your results are just in time for summer.
You don’t have to sacrifice your sunny days for recovery. When you schedule your surgery between December and February, you’re all set for your big reveal during summer as results may take 3-6 months to fully emerge.
Whether you’re eyeing high BMI liposuction, breast augmentation, or a tummy tuck, getting it during the winter season ensures you’re ready for beach days, outdoor weddings, and vacations to sun-soaked destinations.
You’re much less likely to be active.
Unlike the active summer months, winter allows you to avoid strenuous activities. By scheduling your plastic surgery during the winter, you’ll be fully ready to dive back into your active lifestyle when the summer vibes roll in.
It also aligns conveniently with the holiday season, making it easier to take a break and focus on your recovery. With businesses often expecting downtime during this period, slipping away for a week or two in winter feels more seamless. Besides, winter is the perfect time to cozy up indoors, and the slower pace of social activities allows you to recover discreetly.
It’s easier to avoid direct sunlight.
Plastic surgeries demand steering clear of direct sunlight during the recovery phase of up to 6 months. The sun’s UV rays can wreak havoc on vulnerable post-surgery skin, potentially causing scars to become more noticeable, darkened, or even leading to permanent hyperpigmentation.
With winter’s reduced UV intensity and shorter days, steering clear of the sun becomes a cinch, allowing for optimal recovery conditions. Limited sun exposure, particularly during the riskiest, sunniest parts of the day, ensures scars are shielded from UV damage, facilitating proper healing.
But regardless of the season, it’s always wise to layer on a high SPF sunscreen daily to safeguard your skin.
The cold temperature minimizes swelling.
Swelling and bruising reach their peak in the initial days post-op, then gradually ease off after the first week. But hot and humid weather can make them stick around longer due to blood vessels dilating in the heat.
Opting for plastic surgery during the cool, dry months helps swelling take a speedy exit, letting you enjoy the results without the prolonged puffiness.
Plus, the winter chill is soothing, especially for procedures like breast reconstruction.
You can wear loose, comfortable clothing.
Winter comes with wardrobe perks. Loose, comfortable winter clothes like scarves, hats, and turtlenecks become your stylish camouflage, concealing any signs of surgery. You can comfortably run errands, all while keeping your cosmetic journey discreet and covered.
Also, concealing compression garments, bandages, and any residual swelling is a breeze under winter clothing, adding an extra layer of comfort.