Are there any reasons why I can’t tan before and up to my breast reduction?

Question

I use a tanning bed. I know the health risks, but other than the usual heath risks are there any reasons why I can’t tan before and up to my breast reduction? I usually use it a couple times a week. My reduction is scheduled for April 2nd. Thanks

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The best answer can be obtained from the PS who will perform your breast reduction on Apr 2nd.  My pre-op guidelines specify to stop tanning (including tanning beds) one to two weeks before surgery. Whenever you are outside, wear SPF 30 or higher.After your scars are healed, spray tanning should be OK.  UV exposure after breast implant surgery is a problem with regard to possible scar pigmentation changes. No tanning for 1 year would be advised.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Urmen Desai, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

This will not interfere with your Breast Reduction.   I recommend an in-office examination as well as a detailed discussion with a surgeon who you are comfortable with.   Finally, make sure your surgeon is a Double-Board Certified Plastic Surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS), a member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).Best,Dr. DesaiBeverly Hills Institute for Aesthetic Plastic SurgeryHarvard Educated, Beverly Hills & Miami Beach TrainedDouble Board-Certified, Double Fellowship-Trained Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear tayrenee1982,
every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Mary Lee Peters, MD (retired) · Answer

It is pretty hard to find a plastic surgeon who supports the use of tanning beds.  You may enjoy the color it provides your skin now, but over time it will diminish your skin's quality.  The ultraviolet light destroys elastic fibers and causes abnormalities of pigment release.  It can leave you with leathery skin.  It simply isn't worth it.  More seriously, it predisposes you to every type of skin cancer.  Tanning beds are known to release endorphins.  Because of this many people become addicted.  It's a habit that you should should break.  You may want want to consider spray tanning instead.  Best of luck with your breast reduction.

Are there any reasons why I can’t tan before and up to my breast reduction?

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