If you got it, flaunt it! You are ready to show off your new body in your new swimsuit. Whether you’ve had body contouring procedures, breast surgery or fat transfers, the summer has come and with it, the time to show the world the more confident version of yourself at the beach after surgery.
If you’re considering getting cosmetic surgery this summer, you might be wondering how soon afterwards you can start reaping the rewards at the beach. Northeastern Plastic Surgery’s experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon Joseph Fodero, MD, PA, has compiled everything you need to know to stay safe at the beach after surgery this summer.
Going to the Beach After Surgery: The Basics
No procedure is the same, so plastic surgery recovery time varies depending on what you decide to have and other factors like age, weight, and overall health. If you are thinking about a beachside getaway, you should make sure you get the all-clear at your after-care appointment with Dr. Fodero.
Below you’ll find a guide to what you can do and when you can do it safely if you go to the beach after surgery.
➡ Related: 8 Plastic Surgery Recovery Times Decoded
Can I Sit In the Sand After Surgery?
Usually, the beach is safe to go to within a couple of weeks of your surgery—once your body has started healing. Admittedly, at first, you’ll need to be more careful with any surgical incisions when lying in the sand.
While your surgical incisions are still healing, being in direct contact with the sand might make them more vulnerable to infections. Before sitting on the sand, ensure any dressings Dr. Fodero has applied are still secure. A beach chair or towel instead of the sand directly can be a better option; and you should also consider wearing clothes that cover the incisions.
Can I Sunbathe After Surgery?
Any wound is sensitive to the sun, as exposure to it might impact the way it scars. While at the beach, you should keep the incisions Dr. Fodero has covered unwrapped to ensure a natural healing process that minimizes scarring.
If the bandages have been removed, you can protect the area with SPF 30 sunscreen (minimum) any time you expose them to the sun, and aim to limit their exposure. Bringing a sun umbrella, clothing that covers your surgical incision, or seeking shade can help you enjoy the sun for safe periods of time at the beach.
It’s also a good idea to apply sunscreen to new scars under your bathing suit or clothing if you are going to be out in the sun. This is because the UV rays can penetrate your clothing and damage the scars, especially during the first year after the surgery.
Can I Go Swimming?
This may come as no surprise, you might have to wait a bit longer to take a dip in the ocean than to sit on the sand. Contact with seawater can cause infections and compromise the result of your procedure.
For most patients, waiting time is about a month after surgery, or up to six weeks with certain procedures like a tummy tuck. Once Dr. Fodero clears you to swim, plan on starting at a slower pace and gradually working your way up to your pre-surgery activity levels.
You’ll be back at the beach in no time when you adhere to Dr. Fodero’s specific after-care instructions and make all of your post-operative appointments after surgery. You’ll be confidently flaunting your new post-op figure before you know it.
Schedule a telehealth or in-person appointment with our experts at Northeastern Plastic Surgery by calling (973) 295-6565 or sending a message online.