Plastic surgery in the summer requires special care

Preoperative preparation includes the patient being relieved of inflammation, with adequate weight and fat percentage. However, the risk of the procedure is not greater in heat.

Many people take advantage of the months of December and January to undergo aesthetic procedures, especially plastic surgery, as the vacation period allows for the necessary rest after the procedure. However, this is the hottest time of the year and plastic surgery enthusiasts often hear warnings about operations of this nature in the summer. 

The Brazilian Association of Plastic Surgery (Baps) guarantees that there is no limiting factor for carrying out the intervention this season of the year. “The right time is the best for the patient, when they have time and can follow the pre- and post-operative recommendations, regardless of the season”, says Antonio Marcos Pinto Coelho Júnior, member of Baps, specialist in body contouring surgery and breasts. 

The doctor explains that heat has an impact on the body, especially post-operatively. “High temperatures favor the appearance of swelling, especially in patients with a predisposition to fluid retention. The heat and increased sweating can cause some discomfort when using compressive garments, which are necessary post-operatively”, he notes. 

Baps informs that the procedure in the summer requires extra care to maintain comfort and safety in the post-operative period. 

One of the main factors for the success and safety of plastic surgery is adequate pre-operative preparation. The patient must be de-inflamed before surgery so that it can be carried out more safely, explains doctor Antonio Marcos. 

“The risk of the procedure does not increase during hot seasons; it increases if the patient goes for surgery at the wrong time,” he says, noting that the patient must be free from inflammation, with the appropriate weight and fat percentage to undergo the surgery. 

“The inflammatory profile is evaluated by laboratory tests that allow us to analyze vitamins, hormones, inflammatory markers and blood sugar levels, in addition to body composition through bioimpedance. After interpreting all the data, it is possible to draw up personalized preoperative planning, with the introduction of supplements, adequate diet, physical activity, water intake, sleep regulation and bowel habits”, he states. 

The de-inflamed patient will have a calmer post-operative period, with less pain, reduced swelling, greater skin retraction, better quality scars and an earlier return to daily activities. 

“It is essential to take extra care with photoprotection, as sun exposure and UV radiation levels are higher in summer, which favors the appearance of post-operative spots and the darkening of scars”, warns the specialist. It is essential to avoid sun exposure as much as possible in the first three months after the procedure. After this period, a protector with at least SPF 30 and UV clothing must be used on the operated area. 

Another precaution is hydration. “Increased sweating in summer favors dehydration of the body. It is important to drink plenty of fluids to help reduce swelling and help you recover after surgery. Lymphatic drainage sessions may be recommended”, concludes Antonio Marcos Pinto Coelho Júnior.


Source: https://www.em.com.br/colunistas/anna-marina/2024/01/6781162-cirurgia-plastica-no-verao-exige-cuidados-especiais.html



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