Can I tan my legs on a tanning bed as long as I keep my scars covered?

Is is important to stay out of direct sunlight with your scars until they have faded out .. i would recommend at least 5-6 month after the surgery. Best of luck

Thank you for your question.   This is a very common question asked of plastic surgeons.First, I always discuss with my patients about the importance of using sunscreen.  I urge them to keep scars out of direct sunlight for a minimum of 4 months.   Sunscreen is effective in limiting the UV light exposure to skin and scars.Second,  I would advise you Not to use tanning beds.  Many studies show the harmful nature of the tanning beds.  There are much higher rates of sun damage, aging of the skin, loss of elasticity of the skin, skin cancers and melanoma in people using tanning beds even on a casual basis.   Be very careful, Both UVA and UVB rays are harmful to skin and both cause cancer.