Sometimes, a single plastic surgery procedure may not be enough to achieve the results you desire. So, if you are considering more than one procedure, here’s how long you may need to wait before getting the second one done.
How Long To Wait Before Getting Another Surgery & Why
How long you should wait between plastic surgeries depends on the type of surgery you had and the extent of the procedure. In general, we recommend waiting at least 6 to 12 weeks between surgeries. This allows your body to heal fully and is enough time for swelling to subside.
However, you may need longer if your surgery involved an extended time under anesthetic or you experienced significant blood loss. Undergoing multiple surgeries in a short time can increase the risk of complications and may lead to poor surgical results. Plus, it’s a good idea to give yourself time to adjust to the results of your first surgery before deciding to go ahead with additional procedures.
Types Of Surgery & Recovery Times
There are many different types of plastic surgeries, and the recovery time for each can vary based on:
- the extent of the procedure
- your health
- your healing abilities
Less complex procedures, like uncomplicated boob enlargement procedure, small area liposuction, or eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), can usually be spaced closer together.
You can also discuss the possibility of having multiple procedures at once. For example, a mommy makeover may include a tummy tuck, breast augmentation, and lipoplasty procedure.
Post-Surgery Care
A good post-operative care regimen can reduce swelling, promote healing, and minimize the risk of infection or other complications. Following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions can make it easier for your body to recover quickly and prepare for another surgery.
It is essential to keep hydrated and follow a healthy diet to promote tissue healing. If you have been advised to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling, you must use it as instructed by your doctor. Take your prescribed medication and avoid medication you have been told not to take. For example, Aspirin or any Aspirin-related medications can cause bleeding.
Risks And Complications
If you don’t take proper care of yourself after surgery, it can prolong the recovery process. As a result, it can delay when you can have your next surgery.
So, when recovering from surgery, avoid the following:
- Sun exposure. after plastic surgery can cause the skin to become more pigmented, making scars more noticeable. UV radiation exposure can also slow the healing process and increase the risk of keloid or hypertrophic scarring. Lastly, sun exposure can cause the skin to become dehydrated, impeding the healing process.
- Strenuous activity includes lifting heavy objects, running, or doing activities that raise your heart rate or blood pressure. It is discouraged after plastic surgery because it can increase the risk of bleeding after surgery.
- Cigarette smoking can negatively affect the healing process and final results. Nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to the surgical site. This can reduce oxygen and nutrient delivery to the healing tissues. As such, it can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
Follow-up Appointments
You must keep your follow-up appointments, even if you feel you are healing well. During the immediate postoperative period, your surgeon will monitor the healing process of the incisions and check for any signs of infection.
Follow-up appointments allow your surgeon to assess your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your healing plan. They will then be able to advise when it is safe for you to have your second surgery.
It is essential to give your body time to heal properly between plastic surgery procedures to ensure optimal results. At Millennial Plastics Surgery, Dr. David Shokrian is committed to creating an individual schedule with you. Get in touch and allow us to help you reach your aesthetic goals.