Cosmetic Surgery for a Special Event –What You Should Know

Posted Friday, July 16, 2010 to PROCEDURES > Breast

Posted by James Romanelli, MD, FACS

www.jrcs.com

It isn't uncommon for patients to come to my practice on Long Island for plastic surgery in preparation for a special event. An upcoming reunion, a milestone birthday, or a child's wedding might motivate you to lose weight, change your hairstyle, or even pursue cosmetic surgery. After all, it's only natural to want to look your best for such momentous occasions.

If you are considering cosmetic surgery to improve your appearance for a specific occasion, be sure to do your research. Find out what is involved with your procedure and recovery. If you don't plan properly and allow time for a full recovery, you could end up missing that big day.

• Breast Enhancement – Breast procedures require a relatively short recovery time, but tenderness and swelling may last for several weeks. If you are also trying to get in shape for your big event, keep in mind that you'll need to take 4 to 6 weeks off from exercising after your breast surgery. Breast augmentation patients should understand that breast implants may take several months to soften or "drop," at which point they will look and feel more natural.
• Body Contouring – After liposuction you should give yourself a few months to realize full results before your special occasion. Bruising is usually gone after 2 weeks, and swelling will be significantly diminished after 4 to 6 weeks. On the other hand, tummy tuck surgery (or abdominoplasty) requires 3 to 6 weeks for recovery, but some swelling may remain for a few months. Either of these body contouring procedures may require that you wear a surgical compression garment for 2 to 6 weeks following your surgery.
• Facial Surgery – Some patients feel presentable only 1 to 2 weeks after facial cosmetic surgery at my Long Island practice. However, if you are considering a face lift, forehead lift, or eyelid surgery for a special event, you should schedule your surgery at least 6 weeks in advance to allow for complete recovery.

If you have a special event coming up, and cosmetic surgery doesn't fit into your timeline, we still offer many less invasive options such as BOTOX® Cosmetic injections, dermal fillers, and medical spa services that can take years off of your appearance and help you look radiant with no recovery period.

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