Going Back to Work After Plastic Surgery: A Guide for Patients
If you undergo a major plastic surgery procedure such as body contouring and lifting surgery, it can take a bit of time before you can go back to your job. We always stress wellness to patients who come to our Gatineau practice, which is why proper recovery is key.
Let's take a moment to consider how much time you may need off from work after you undergo a plastic surgery procedure.
How Much Time Off Will I Need?
The amount of time off from work will often be based on two key factors:
- The type of surgery you have undergone
- The nature of your job and your normal job duties
During the consultation process, we can discuss these matters in greater detail and provide an estimate of time off just for you. Keep in mind that recovery needs to be your primary focus, especially in those first few days after your procedure is performed.
Average Time Off from Work for Facial Plastic Surgery
If you undergo a facial plastic surgery procedure, you'll typically follow these guidelines for time off:
- Brow Lift Surgery - 1 to 2 weeks off from work
- Facelift - 2 weeks off from work
- Nose Job (Rhinoplasty) - 2 weeks off from work
- Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) - 2 weeks off from work
Keep in mind that your recovery times can vary based on your occupation and how you look and feel as you recover.
Average Time Off from Work for Breast Enhancement Surgery
If you undergo a surgery to enhance the breasts or chest area, you'll typically follow these guidelines for time off:
- Breast Augmentation Surgery – 1 week off from work
- Breast Lift Surgery - 1 week off from work
- Breast Reduction Surgery - 1 week off from work
- Male Breast Reduction - 1 week off from work
Keep in mind that your recovery times can vary based on your occupation and how you feel as you recover.
Average Time Off from Work for Body Contouring Surgery
If you undergo body contouring, body sculpting, or skin tightening surgeries, you'll typically follow these guidelines for time off:
- Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty) - 1 week off from work
- Liposuction - 1 week off from work
- Tummy Tuck Surgery (Abdominoplasty) - 3 to 4 weeks off from work
- Mommy Makeover Surgery - 3 to 4 weeks off from work
- Body Lift Surgery - 3 to 4 weeks off from work
As above, keep in mind that your recovery times can vary based on your occupation and how you feel as you recover.
Physically Demanding Occupations May Require More Time
If you are a professional athlete or work in a field that is physically demanding (e.g., involves heavy lifting and strenuous activities), you may require additional time off from work. This is to ensure you heal fully and avoid complications related to incision sites and incomplete healing. This is a common sense precaution to ensure the best results for the patient.
Slowly Return to Normal Job Duties
As you return to work, be sure to slowly ease back into your job duties. Do not push yourself too hard as you recover. Pay attention to what feels uncomfortable and avoid those activities until you have healed a bit more. Be conservative about these matters to ensure less pain in the short run and better results in the long run.
Contact Our Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Centre
For more information about recovering from plastic surgery and how we can help you heal quickly and look your best, be sure to contact our cosmetic plastic surgery center today. The team at our practice looks forward to your visit and discussing these matters with you in greater detail.