While many people start thinking about body contouring procedures as soon as shorts and tanks make their debut in the spring, getting your plastic surgery in autumn can help you to make the most of your results during the warmer months. There are a few good reasons to schedule your body contouring treatment in the fall or winter so you can be ready just in time for a big reveal of your new shape come spring.
1. More Easily Take Time Off
As soon as the weather breaks, everyone in the office will probably be trying to take time off work, which can make it difficult to plan your plastic surgery. Instead, try to shoot for the cooler fall and winter months when most people are finished vacationing and traveling for the year.
Depending on which body contouring procedure or combination of procedures you choose, you may need to take anywhere from 1 to 2 weeks off of work to effectively recover. The last thing you want to do is try to rush your recovery just so you can get back to work on a tight schedule.
Fall and winter also mean that the kids are back in school, so childcare tends to be easier this time of year if you’re a parent.
2. Recover Comfortably
Another benefit to planning a drain-free tummy tuck, liposuction or a mommy makeover in the fall is that you won’t be battling uncomfortable heat and trying to hide swelling under a skimpy summer wardrobe. Cooler temperatures mean forgivingly bulky, comfy clothing like sweatshirts, sweatpants and sweaters that make it that much easier to camouflage swelling and incisions while you’re still healing.
For maximum comfort while you heal, set yourself up with a relaxing recovery space in your home equipped with plenty of blankets and pillows.
3. Skip the Sun
For a few weeks after your body contouring procedure, you’ll need to stay out of direct sunlight, as the sun’s UV rays can worsen inflammation, swelling and the appearance of scars. Avoiding the sun can be a bit of a challenge during the spring and summer. When it’s cooler outside, though, the sunshine isn’t as strong and more of your skin will be covered up.
Note that it can take up to 18 months for scars to fully mature and heal, so it’s always a good idea to be diligent about sunscreen and avoid tanning beds to help minimize the look of any scarring.
4. Reveal Your New Figure Come Spring
Your results from body contouring won’t appear magically overnight, so you’ll need to give yourself a few months to recover and gradually see your new shape. Then, once spring arrives, your body should be ready for your big reveal to family and friends.
In the meantime, take it easy, follow your plastic surgeon’s guidelines for recovery and gradually reintroduce more strenuous physical activities into your regular routine.
Taking the Next Step
Once you’ve decided that now is the right time for you to have your body contouring procedure, the next step is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. He or she can create a timeline for your surgery and recovery to help you get a better idea of when you might be able to start enjoying your final outcome.
Dr. Scot Martin concentrates on breast enhancement and body contouring at his practice in Las Cruces, New Mexico. A nationally recognized plastic surgeon, Dr. Martin is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
He looks forward to meeting you and helping you become the best version of yourself possible.
