When August arrives, the most frequently asked question in aesthetic surgery is: "Can I recover in this heat?" Although there is a general public perception that having surgery in summer is risky, medically speaking, the success of a surgery is not related to the season but to the post-operative care process.
Here are the curious facts about the recovery process in hot weather:
1. How Does Hot Weather Affect Edema and Recovery?
Heat can lead to vasodilation, increasing the body's tendency to retain water (edema). This situation may cause swelling to subside a bit more slowly during the recovery process.
• Fact: Spending the first 1-2 weeks after surgery in an air-conditioned and cool environment completely eliminates this effect. Consuming plenty of water to control edema and taking the walks recommended by your doctor becomes even more critical in the summer months.
2. Corset Usage and Comfort in the Heat
The biggest concern in surgeries that require the use of a corset (liposuction, tummy tuck, etc.) is sweating and itching.
• Fact: Modern medical corsets used today are produced from special fabrics with high air permeability that wick away sweat. Using backup corsets to maintain hygiene and balancing the room temperature makes the use of corsets in summer comfortable, contrary to popular belief.
3. The Biggest Risk is Not Heat, But the Sun
The main factor directly affecting the recovery process in summer surgeries is not the air temperature, but the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays.
• Attention: If a fresh scar (incision line) is directly exposed to the sun, permanent darkening called hyperpigmentation may occur in that area. Therefore, high-factor sunscreens and protective clothing should be used to avoid the sun until the operation area is completely healed (average 3-6 months).
4. When are the Pool and Sea Safe?
To prevent the risk of infection after surgery, one must wait for the stitches to close completely.
• Rule: Although it varies according to the type of operation, swimming in the sea is generally allowed from the 3rd week onwards. However, pools should be postponed for a longer period (until your doctor's approval) because the risk of infection is higher.
Summary: Thanks to modern medical technology and sterilization conditions, operations can be planned safely in every season. The key to a successful result is protecting scars from the sun and resting in a cool environment during the recovery process rather than the hot weather itself.
Medical Review and Approval:
Op. Dr. Salih Cem ALTUNAL
We wish you healthy days.
