Using the tanning bed with a splint?

Question

Im going to have my dorsal hump rasped and I want to continue tanning afterwards. I always cover my face with towels in the tanning bed. Can I still do this after the rasping procedure? My Dr. says I will have a splint on. Will the splint be ok in the tanning bed? How about after the splint is removed? Can I cover my face and tan then?

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Even with your face covered, I do not recommend that you tan while you heal. It can delay your recovery, making you more susceptible to complications. If you must tan, do so after you’ve fully recovered from surgery (although I don’t recommend tanning at all).

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question, amyjob. I suggest you consult with your board certified facial plastic surgeon for their opinion. I do not recommend using a tanning bed. It is dangerous for your nose and antithetical to safe and productive healing.Best wishes,

Matthew Bridges, MD, FACS · Answer

This is an easy one.   No, no, and no.Can you not lay off the tanning for a while to make sure you don't mess up your new nose? Come on...

Catherine Winslow, MD · Answer

Hello! Um, this is so wrong on so many accounts. Just.... No, do not do it. Aside from the pressure on the nose, the fact that tanning beds can cause discoloration of scars and the fact that towels do NOT protect against damage tanning beds will acccelerate premature aging of the skin and increase your risk of melanoma. Spray tan instead.

Marissa Tenenbaum, MD · Answer

Tanning can increase risk of skin cancer and using it with a splint can also lead to differences in your tan on your face. Routine screening for skin cancer is important and you should see a dermatologist for this. Good luck, MMT

Using the tanning bed with a splint?

Answers (7)