How long after mommy makeover for overseas vacation?

Question

I go on an annual trip to Mexico and am deciding if we will miss this year or not. Can I travel, swim, not worry about anything 9-10 weeks after operation? What length of time do you recommend waiting for this type of travel?

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

You should be well healed and be able to do most physically demanding activities 10 weeks after surgery if you are having a routine course. Please get your surgeon's permission on different activites prior to travel and best of luck.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It really depends on what you’ll be having done and how your recovery goes. If all goes well, then 2 months should be enough time. However, since all surgeons have their own recommendations on post-surgical care, please ask your surgeon specifically.

Please be careful with your newly healed scars if you do go on your trip. UV exposure can permanently darken scars, making them look worse, so you should make sure to keep them covered up.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, I usually tell my patients to wait at least 6 weeks before doing any activities or exercising. 8 weeks should be enough time to go under water and resume normal activities, every surgeon has different post op care instructions best of luck.

Alex Campbell, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  After a Mommy makeover, patients can return to light activities almost immediately after surgery, normal activities 2 weeks after surgery, and vigorous exercise 4 weeks after surgery.  We usually experience a slow steady improvement for 3 months or so after surgery. You should be fine to go on your overseas vacation after 9 weeks of recovery. Best is to follow up with your surgeon and make sure to follow hes/her recommendations.

Shahram Salemy, MD, FACS · Answer

Time off after surgery varies based on the surgeon and the procedure.  In general I ask my patients to refrain from any heavy activities or lifting for 6 weeks after surgery.  Typically by then patients are able to resume normal activities and by 8 weeks are able to be completely under water, but this is very surgeon specific.  I would urge you to speak with your surgeon about their particular restrictions and follow their recommendations.

Gregory A. Buford, MD, FACS · Answer

To answer this, we really need to know the specific procedures that you are planning to have.  Certain procedures have more downtime than others and there are other variables such as the extensive of the procedures themselves.  While I agree that 9-10 weeks should be adequate, you may actually be able to travel sooner depending upon what is actually done.Best to consult with your Plastic Surgeon and discuss your goals and see what he/she recommends.  I hope that helps and wish you the very best!-Gregory A Buford MD FACSBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Michael Baumholtz, MD, FACS · Answer

as long as you’re willing to modify or cancel your plans - sure - go for it.

However - if this annual pilgrimage involves visiting sick relatives or requires heavy physical activity - then no I think you’re cutting it close.

What you’re asking for is future prediction and the answer is none of us can know for sure.

Typicallly mommy makeovers (breast and tummy tucks (for my practice)) have the following post operative course: 
2-3 weeks to heal the incisions and get rid of the drains
By 6 weeks - you’re bra shopping
By 12 weeks - gradual increase in lifting but only 5-10 lbs before this point.
All of this assumes no complications, good health, and compliance with instructions.

Speak with your surgeon and always go with a board certified member of ASPS / ASAPS.

Good luck

Mark Deutsch, MD, FACS · Answer

Generally a 6 week recovery period is needed after a mommy makeover before resuming full activities. I would think that if you healed well and had a good recovery you should be able to travel out of the country 9-10 weeks after surgery.

David Finkle, MD · Answer

The absolute minimum would be 6 weeks after a mommy makeover.  If you would have an unforeseen complication, it is possible you could miss your vacation or ruin it by not being able to participate in certain activities.  I do believe 9-10 weeks should be adequate though.Good Luck!

John W. Tyrone, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question-At 9 to 10 weeks post op you should be able to take your trip. It is extremely important though to protect your scars from the sun, as UV rays can cause the scars to change colors. If you are in a swimsuit it is important to wear one which is thick enough to protect your incisions from sunlight, or to apply a sunscreen with a high SPF to the scars. It is also important to know your physical restrictions as advised from your plastic surgeon, as these restrictions may vary from one surgeon to another. Generally speaking though, at 9 to 10 weeks post op you should be cleared to relax on vacation!

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