While you may be enjoying your new body this summer, avoiding overexertion and allowing your body to recuperate is crucial. It’s best to schedule your surgery at least six weeks before summer so you can have ample time for recovery before going on a beach trip.
But if you get surgery during the summer, here are some post-surgery recovery tips while on your summer vacation.
Avoid Sun Exposure
You may be looking forward to spending time under the sun during summer. However, if you’ve recently had plastic surgery, you must avoid sun exposure as much as possible.
Surgery can cause a disruption in the circulation around a treated area, making it more susceptible to sunburn. If incisions and scars are exposed to the sun too quickly, they might deepen or turn red and become more visible.
You must be cautious with your incisions while still pink, usually during the first few months after surgery. If you must go outside, wear layers of clothing and a cap. Remember to apply sunscreen and reapply as frequently as needed.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
After surgery, dehydration may cause nausea and other unpleasant symptoms. Staying hydrated can help your body heal faster.
Drink lots of water throughout the day, especially if you’re outside. Good hydration will make your skin look better and may help prevent swelling after surgery.
Avoid Swimming
Cosmetic surgery frequently involves deep tissue and muscles with stitches in multiple layers. Because you feel weightless when in the water, you may be unaware of body motions that strain sutures, distort incision sites, or cause scars to stretch, hindering your recovery.
External improvements in scars or incision regions may not always imply that everything on the inside has healed entirely.
After surgery, avoid swimming pools, spas, lakes, and the ocean for several weeks. These bodies of water can house microorganisms, increasing your risk of infection.
While your skin generally does an excellent job of shielding you from hazardous germs, unhealed incisions are susceptible to infection.
If you have incisions that are still healing, keep them clean and dry. Make sure you have your doctor’s clearance before plunging into the waters.
Stay Indoors
As you recuperate from your operation, staying indoors in cooler conditions is preferable. Most body contouring patients must wear additional layers of bandaging or compression garments while recovering. Hence, the warm weather will make you feel even hotter.
Be Patient
Healing takes time, so be patient with your recovery. Allow yourself time to heal and avoid overscheduling. Most patients can resume normal activities within six weeks of surgery.
If you notice any irritation, swelling, or other changes in your incisions or skin, call your doctor immediately because this could indicate infection.
Always Consult Your Surgeon
Consultations after your surgery are important. Do not miss your schedule so your doctor can monitor your healing progress.
Follow your cosmetic surgeon’s recommendations regarding swimming or any other physical activity.
Contact your cosmetic surgeon if you are unsure whether an activity is safe after your surgery. When it comes to reliable recovery guidance, your doctor is your best resource.
Dr. Nick Masri is a double-board certified plastic surgeon who prioritizes the wellness of his patients, including after-surgery care. Schedule a consultation now with Dr. Masri.