Recovery Time Expected After Plastic Surgery

Posted July 10, 2014 in Recovery

When patients come in to see Dr. Palladino, one of the most common questions asked is, “How long will it take to heal after my plastic surgery procedure?” This question is understandable, but unfortunately there is not one perfect answer or definitive time frame. The answer varies greatly, depending on the type of cosmetic procedure you are having done.

Certain factors come into play, and that is why the expected recovery time after plastic surgery is something that Dr. Palladino will address with you individually. You can also speed up your recovery time process by taking good care of yourself. Quitting smoking at least two weeks before having plastic surgery is highly recommended, not only because smoking can deter or slow down the healing process, and because it is also rather dangerous due to the potential for blood clots.

Also, the time for healing greatly depends upon your type of lifestyle, including the strenuousness of your job, daily tasks, how much relaxation and rest you give yourself, as well as your diet.

How Much Time is Required to Heal After Plastic Surgery?

We can only generalize here, because everyone is different. Of course, the goal is to heal as fast as possible. Some procedures may require only a day or two, while other major surgeries may take weeks before your body fully recovers. These are some commonly anticipated recovery times to expect after plastic surgery:

Allow at Least 1 Week for:

• Breast Reduction
• Arm Lift: Brachioplasty
• Breast Augmentation
• Male Chest Reduction: Gynecomastia
• Laser Surgery for Face

Allow 2 Weeks for:

• Face Lift
• Brow or Eyelid Lift
• Liposuction

Allow 3 – 4 Weeks for:

• Mommy Makeover
• Breast Lift with Augmentation
• Body Lift
• Butt Augmentation/Implants

We often recommend scheduling more healing time after plastic surgery than you need, just in case your body requires more time than the “average” expectations. It is best to consult with the plastic surgeon and get his okay before returning to work and other day-to-day things, such as going to the gym or other physical fitness regiments. Again, other factors come into play so it is best to consult with Dr. Palladino for more specific procedures and recommended “down time” requests.

Bear in mind that any type of facial procedures could also present social downtime, so you may not want to schedule any type of facial procedure right before a big party or a big date. After you allow your face proper healing time, it will be worth your while and you will look and feel better than ever.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Humberto Palladino to find out how long your anticipated recovery time after a procedure will be.