Plastic surgery is always an exciting endeavor, as the results leave people looking refreshed and refined. Patients who undergo surgery naturally look forward to the summertime, as it is the best opportunity to show off the results of their new aesthetic. Plastic surgery requires a great deal of planning and a long recovery period. For this reason, it is often recommended that patients schedule their surgery for the wintertime.
There are numerous benefits that come with undergoing surgery in the winter. We have compiled some of them here for your reference.
Minimized Swelling
Swelling is a common effect that patients experience after undergoing a surgical procedure. While swelling is usually mild, it can sometimes take up to a week for it to fully dissipate. Depending on the type of procedure performed, swelling after surgery could even last for several months.
Swelling may last longer in the summer months simply due to the fact that hot weather increases vasodilation (the dilation of blood vessels). Undergoing surgery in the colder months may make for a quicker recovery with less swelling.
A lower risk of scarring
Scarring is an inevitable part of most plastic surgery procedures. They usually appear darkest and most raised in the first few weeks following the treatment. It usually takes a few months for scars to significantly fade out and become smooth.
Exposing scars to sunlight early on can cause discoloration, making the scar more noticeable. Choosing to undergo a procedure in the winter is the easiest way to keep your scars from being exposed to too much sun.
A good time to rest
Depending on the extent of the surgery, some patients may need to take some time off from work and social events. In the wintertime things slow down, making it easier for patients to stay home and get the rest they need.
During the winter, it is expected that people will spend more time indoors and cut down on social activities. It will be easier for patients to get through their healing process when they can engage in some fun indoor activities, whether alone or with their loved ones.
Easier to keep covered
The swelling, redness, and bruising that come with plastic surgery can be a source of embarrassment for patients as they heal. For this reason, the wintertime is ideal for plastic surgery. Cold weather means patients need to cover up with things like scarves, beanies, face masks, long sleeve shirts, etc, making it easier to conceal themselves.
Revealing results in the summer
Cosmetic surgeries such as liposuction, breast augmentation (implants), and tummy tuck surgery, come with the excitement of getting to reveal a totally new physique. Waiting until the summertime can make it all the better, as there are plenty of opportunities to go to the beach and show off your results.
Undergoing treatment in the wintertime means that the results will have settled in by the summer. Patients will have the opportunity to go out with their friends with newfound confidence.
What is the takeaway?
There are so many advantages to undergoing surgery in the wintertime. Planning your cosmetic procedure ahead of time will enable you to make the best decision for yourself based on your projected recovery time. Choosing a skilled, experienced practitioner to carry out the treatment is vital, as they will provide important information during the consultation.