While sunshine can put a smile on your face, it may also wreak havoc on your plastic surgery results. After you invest time and money into a procedure, you want to ensure you enjoy optimal, long-term benefits. If you bask in the sun too much, you might experience the opposite effect as the sun can damage your post-surgery skin in a number of ways, including:
Improper Healing
Exposing your skin to the sun right after plastic surgery can lead to longer, more extreme side effects. Bruising and swelling, for example, may worsen and eventually cause inflammation. This can take a toll on your results and lengthen the recovery process. By making it a priority to protect your skin from the sun for at least a few weeks after your procedure, you can heal safely and effectively.
Visible Scarring
The sun and skin pigmentation go hand in hand. Even though a tan might look great on your skin, it’s not so great for your incision sites and scars. In fact, sunshine may make your scars more apparent as it darkens the tissue and often results in discoloration. Chances are you’d like to diminish the appearance of scars, not draw attention to them with the sun.
Cosmetic Imperfections
Once you’ve fully recovered from plastic surgery, ongoing exposure to the skin can cause the types of issues that you hoped your procedure would resolve. These include fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, a rough texture, scars, and spots. For lasting results and a rejuvenated facial appearance, keep your face away from the sun.
Health Complications
Excessive sun exposure and sunburns can also lead to skin cancer. Using sunscreen and protecting your skin from the sun can significantly reduce your risk of this serious and life-threatening condition.
How to Protect Your Skin From the Sun
Immediately after your plastic surgery, take it easy and refrain from direct sun exposure. If you have to go outside, cover up your face with a wide-brimmed hat. Also, don’t forget to apply and reapply a quality sunscreen and use makeup with a built-in SPF. In addition, stay in the shade and avoid spending hours upon hours in the sunshine.