How Long Should You Wait Before Scheduling Your Next Surgery
The decision to schedule a plastic surgery is a deeply personal one, motivated by a variety of factors. However, when it comes to scheduling multiple procedures, it’s critical to consider recovery time for optimal results and in support of your overall health and wellness.
As with any cosmetic or reconstructive surgery, your surgeon will discuss what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. This includes the typical recovery time. It’s important to note the word “typical,” as everyone will recuperate at their own pace, according to their current health and even stress level.
Ultimately, it’s wise to wait between procedures, which begs the question, “How long?” We’ve got a basic overview of average recovery times for planning purposes. Again, the green light for your next surgery will be given by your surgeon.
Ready, Set, Recover
Depending on the procedure, you can expect recovery times to vary considerably. Understanding what you can expect post-surgery is important in order to secure adequate days off from work, which ideally will fall under paid sick or vacation time. The following average recovery times per procedure type will give you some idea of the down time and how to prepare for it.
We’ve pulled the following top procedures performed in our office to show you how one requires more time than another. For instance…
- Breast augmentation requires anywhere from 3-5 days off from work for implants, 3-6 for a lift, and 3-7 for a reduction.
- A tummy tuck typically takes between 10-14 days
- Liposuction recovery could require anywhere between 2-4 days, but up to 7 if you schedule multiple sites to be treated at the same time.
Scheduling more than one site for surgery, such as booking a combination procedure, is a popular option for those eager to speed up results, regardless of the increased downtime.
Factors Impacting Ideal Recovery Times
In addition to physical factors like age, weight, pre-existing conditions, and lifestyle choices like smoking, physicians now know that psychology plays a role in a patient’s postoperative recovery. “This study suggests that patients who are anxious and fearful of surgery and who anticipate post-operative recovery problems are more prone toward complications from ambulatory surgery.”
Before you book your plastic surgery — whether it’s your first or a fourth — consult with Dr. Sterling to understand what you can expect from the experience and plan accordingly. Contact our team to get your consultation on the calendar today!
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