Cosmetic procedures can include both traditional cosmetic surgeries and non-invasive cosmetic treatments. “Cosmetic” refers to the fact that these procedures are aimed at reshaping, enhancing, or reducing certain features on the body to promote patient happiness and confidence. For healthy adults, cosmetic procedures can be a great choice that requires manageable recovery times. However, the recovery times may vary dramatically based on the procedures, the individual, and other factors. So how can we cut down on recovery time and allow cosmetic patients to bounce back faster?
To answer this question, today we will examine the importance of choosing the correct cosmetic procedure, the differences between invasive and non-invasive cosmetic procedures as it pertains to recovery time, and some typical bounce back times for common cosmetic surgeries.
Choosing the Right Cosmetic Procedure
There are two primary choices every patient must make before undergoing a cosmetic procedure:
- Who will be my cosmetic surgeon and/or cosmetic practitioner?
- What procedure best fits my individual needs?
The first consideration can be as important if not more important than the second. Not only will a board certified cosmetic surgeon be able to perform your procedure at or above industry standards, but he or she will also be able to help guide you towards the right path when it comes to selecting the procedure which will best meet your needs. Every individual undergoing an elective cosmetic procedure should trust their surgeon first and foremost.
When it comes to choosing the procedure which will best serve your individual needs, there are virtually limitless variables to consider. Are there non-invasive options which will accomplish the same goals as surgery? How willing are you to undergo a lengthy recovery period? What is your budget? Understanding all of the primary variables of cosmetic procedures helps patients understand what to expect both during and after their procedure(s).
Invasive vs. Non-Invasive Cosmetic Procedures
Invasive vs. non-invasive procedures is perhaps the biggest determining factor when it comes to patient bounce-back times. Consider a common example: liposuction vs. bulk heating or bulk cooling for fat loss. Liposuction is widely recognized as the most effective way to remove body fat safely in large quantities. Liposuction is FDA approved and recommended for individuals who are looking to permanently remove body fat from a variety of body sites. Liposuction is an invasive, surgical procedure.
Bulk heating and bulk cooling are also FDA approved (in many applications) to destroy and remove fat cells permanently. These procedures may not carry the same standard of efficacy as traditional liposuction, but they are certainly effective. Bulk heating and bulk cooling are non-invasive, non-surgical options for fat loss.
Liposuction can result in time away from work ranging from a couple days to a couple weeks. Liposuction may either be outpatient procedures or require an overnight stay for more involved cases. All types of liposuction will likely require a recovery time involving bruising, numbness, and some discomfort. Full recovery may take weeks or months. Non-invasive bulk heating and cooling patients can walk out of their procedures and continue about their days almost as if nothing happened in most cases.
Common Recovery Times for Cosmetic Surgeries
Breast Implants/Breast Augmentation
Cosmetic surgeries to enlarge or reshape the breasts generally carry a minimum recovery time of 3-5 days. Full recovery including the reduction of swelling is usually achieved at around the 3 month mark. The days after breast implant procedures can cause moderate discomfort coming from incisions and due to the separation of the muscle tissue. As far as invasive surgery recoveries go, breast augmentation patients report relatively mild and quickly healing symptoms.
Breast Reduction Surgery
On the flip side, individuals undergoing breast reduction surgery actually may be in for a slightly lengthier recovery period. A primary variable in recovery time includes the amount and nature of the fat tissue and muscle tissue which must be removed to achieve the reduction. Some patients recover in just a few days while others report a recovery time of 2-3 weeks.
Rhinoplasty Recovery Time
While rhinoplasty patients certainly can expect to feel mild discomfort for 24-48 hours, the real recovery time will be waiting for bruising, swelling, and dark marks under the eyes to subside. Nose jobs generally require a minimum of a full week for facial markings to return to normal. The recommended time off is therefore about a week. Some patients will have packing, which may be removed after about ~3 days. Nose splints can be expected to be removed at around the 5 day mark.
SCALE 2020 for Cosmetic Surgery Panels, Discussions, and More!
To learn more about cutting edge cosmetic procedures, laser tech, esthetic dermatology and much more, join us from July 22-25, 2020 for our annual Music City Scale Conference! SCALE is the premier multidisciplinary meeting for aesthetic medicine, surgery and dermatology in the United States. Join other industry professionals to discuss industry trends, emerging technologies, and more!
While our list is always expanding, click here to view our current exhibitors and sponsors for 2020. To register, follow this link. We look forward to seeing you this summer for the cosmetics industry event of the year!
