Can I go to the tanning salon before my surgery?

Question

My surgery date is in 3 1/2 weeks. February 17th and I am wanting to have a nice tan when I bet my breasts! Is this ok?

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, I'd suggest asking your surgeon if they have any reservations.  I personally do not mind if my patients sun tan prior to surgery but they need to take care not to get a sunburn.

Josh Olson, MD · Answer

Discuss this with your surgeon but you should be fine tanning at least a week prior to surgery. Good luckJosh Olson MD

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.Tanning 2-3 weeks before your surgery should be fine. After surgery you need to keep the scars protected for the first year. Check with your surgeon for his/her instructions regarding tanning.

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear Abl22Tanning 2-3 weeks prior to surgery is reasonable and should not impact your surgery. You should confirm with your surgeon to be safe.

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

Having a tan prior to breast augmentation which is in 3 1/2 weeks is fine with regards to your operation.HOWEVER, as a plastic surgeon I would be remiss if I didn't also tell you that tanning and sunburns undoubtedly lead to an increased likelihood of skin cancer.  There is no doubt about it!Anyhow, best of luck to you!

Eric Mariotti, MD · Answer

As others have said, there is no medical reason
that tanning before undergoing breast augmentation surgery poses any risks.
Having said that, research shows a significant link between using tanning
salons and the increase in skin cancer among young women. The Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that not only does indoor tanning
increase the risk of developing skin cancer, but it also causes premature skin
aging (wrinkles and age spots) and changes your skin texture (not for the
better). Also, tanning after surgery is not good for your healing incisions,
which can darken. I encourage you to avoid the tanning salon altogether and use
sunscreen when enjoying the Scottsdale weather.

Shaun Parson, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for your question. The short answer is yes. The longer answer is you can't get a sunburn. However, after surgery you should not sun tan your scars. The rest of the skin on your breast is fine but be very careful to not suntan the actual scar for the first 6 months.

Jamie Moenster, DO · Answer

Thank you for your question.  There is no medical reason a tan will interfere with your surgery.  However, tanning increases your risk for skin cancer and for pre-mature aging with dark spots and wrinkling.  Skip the real sun or tanning bed and spring for a nice spray on tan after your surgery when approve by your surgeon.Best Wishes

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. You will probably never hear a plastic surgeon or a dermatologist say it's OK to go tanning. The skin cancer risks are not worth it. However, to answer your question, no, that should not affect your surgery or results. Best wishes.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

You need to discuss this with 0 plastic surgeon.My concern is that tanning causes inflammation of the skin and if you have a sunburn I would cancel your surgery. The inflammation of the skin could interfere with proper healing.

Can I go to the tanning salon before my surgery?

Answers (10)

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