In 2023, there were 34.9 million aesthetic procedures performed, which was a 3.4% increase from 2022. It’s clear that it’s becoming more mainstream to get plastic surgery, which can minimize insecurities and improve your self-esteem.
The fact that procedures are more accessible nowadays is what has you interested in them. But you would be going under the knife, and that requires some downtime.
The length would make or break your decision, so how long does it take to recover from plastic surgery anyway? We’ll go through this information so you have a better idea before you book an appointment.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From Plastic Surgery?
As you may have already guessed, there isn’t one simple answer to the question, “How long does plastic surgery take to heal?” The recovery time varies widely depending on the type of procedure you get, as well as some other factors (more on this later).
To break it down for you, we’ll give you a general overview of recovery times for some common types of plastic surgery.
Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)
You’ll notice that the initial swelling and bruising from a nose job will subside in 1-2 weeks, which means you can return to work and also do light activities afterward. However, you’ll need to avoid strenuous exercise for at least 4-6 weeks.
As for full recovery, expect it to take several months to a year or two.
Facelift
The initial swelling and bruising after your facelift will subside after 2-3 weeks; you can return to light activities then as well. Do note that you may still feel tightness, numbness, or tingling for several weeks or months afterward. Avoid exercise and strenuous activities for at least 4-6 weeks.
You should expect it to take 3-6 months for all swelling to go away, and for you to see final results for your facelift.
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Eyelid surgery is one of the quickest surgeries to recover from. The swelling and bruising will go down in about a week, so you can return to work and everyday activities then. You’ll have to avoid strenuous activities for at least three weeks though.
For full healing, you’ll need 1-2 months. The scars will continue to fade over time too.
Liposuction
Swelling and bruising from liposuction will last a few weeks, although you can return to work within 1-2 weeks. Your surgeon will probably advise that you avoid strenuous physical activity for 4-6 weeks.
In addition, you won’t see final results until the swelling completely subsides. This may take 3-6 months.
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
When it comes to surgeries with the longest recovery time, the tummy tuck is definitely one. You’ll definitely have swelling and discomfort in the first few weeks, and you won’t be able to do light activities for 2-4 weeks. Furthermore, you can’t do heavy lifting and exercise for 6-8 weeks.
Full recovery can take six months, depending on the type of tummy tuck you get. Plus, it can take a year for your scars to fade.
Breast Augmentation or Reduction
As with most other procedures, you’ll experience swelling, bruising, and soreness for the first few weeks. You can go back to work within 1-2 weeks, but you won’t be able to do any heavy lifting or intense exercise for 4-6 weeks.
For the swelling to fully subside, it may take several months. Once it does, your breasts will also settle into their final position.
Breast Reconstruction
The recovery period will vary depending on which type of reconstruction is done (implant-based or tissue-based). Also, if tissue flaps are used, recovery might take longer.
Of course, you’ll have swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the first few weeks. You can return to light activities after 4-6 weeks, but full recovery can take several months. In addition, it may take up to a year for your breasts to settle and for the scars to fade.
Skin Grafts
Here, you’ll also experience swelling and discomfort, as well as redness. Recovery really depends on the size and complexity of your skin graft. Small ones may heal within 2-4 weeks, while larger ones can take several months.
Either way, you’ll have to protect the site for about a month. Plus, full recovery can take up to six months. Expect scar maturation to take the same amount of time too.
Other Factors That Impact Healing Time
Obviously, your plastic surgery recovery time will heavily depend on which procedure you get; the more invasive, the longer you’ll need to heal. However, there are other factors that can either shorten or lengthen your healing time. We’ll go over them below.
Age and Health
In general, younger patients recover from surgery faster than older ones. However, your overall health matters significantly; if you have no other health issues, recovery should be faster. But if you have diabetes, for example, it can slow the healing process.
Post-Surgery Care
Following your surgeon’s post-op instructions is of the utmost importance. Doing things such as wearing compression garments and taking prescribed medications will facilitate healing. If anything doesn’t feel right, it’s essential that you contact your surgeon, as quick action is key.
Smoking
Smoking is detrimental to your immune system, which means it can slow down healing. On top of that, your chances of infection increase too. You should’ve already quit before your procedure, but you should still abstain afterward.
Adequately Plan for Recovery
So how long does it take to recover from plastic surgery? It really depends on what procedure you’re having, your age and health, and how well you follow post-op instructions.
In general, you’ll be able to resume light/normal activities within a few weeks. But for full recovery, it may take months or even over a year.
So give yourself plenty of time and have patience, especially since you might hit unexpected setbacks. And remember to always follow your surgeon’s orders for the best results possible.
Contact us now if you’re interested in plastic surgery. Dr. Valdez is a specialist with over 16 years of experience and multiple certifications from prestigious organizations.
References:
- Global Survey 2023: Full Report and Press Releases. Accessed October 6, 2024. https://www.isaps.org/discover/about-isaps/global-statistics/global-survey-2023-full-report-and-press-releases/
- Writer GS| F, Wednesday F 23. What to expect from your rhinoplasty recovery. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Accessed October 6, 2024. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/articles/what-to-expect-from-your-rhinoplasty-recovery
- Robert Improta M| C, Tuesday D 4. Your facelift recovery explained from Day 1 to Day 30. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Accessed October 6, 2024. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/your-facelift-recovery-explained-from-day-1-to-day-30
- Eyelid Surgery Results. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Accessed October 6, 2024. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/eyelid-surgery/results
- Shahram Salemy MD, Friday A 16. What you need to know about your liposuction recovery. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Accessed October 6, 2024. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-your-liposuction-recovery
- Shahram Salemy MD, Friday J 19. What you need to know about your tummy tuck recovery. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Accessed October 6, 2024. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-your-tummy-tuck-recovery
- Smoking greatly increases risk of complications after surgery. Accessed October 6, 2024. https://www.who.int/news/item/20-01-2020-smoking-greatly-increases-risk-of-complications-after-surgery
- Minas Chrysopoulo M| SA, Wednesday O 4. Recovery after DIEP flap breast reconstruction. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Accessed October 6, 2024. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/recovery-after-diep-flap-breast-reconstruction
- Skin graft Information | Mount Sinai – New York. Mount Sinai Health System. Accessed October 6, 2024. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/surgery/skin-graft