How Much Time Will I Have to Take off Work after Plastic Surgery?

Recovery is a tremendously important part of the overall plastic surgery experience. A patient can undergo a perfectly performed procedure, yet not achieve the results they were looking for because they didn’t follow their doctor’s instructions for recovery.

Every plastic surgery patient needs to take time off from work to recover after their procedure. How much time depends on the specific patient, the procedure and other factors. Here, Dr. Carlos Chacon of Divino Plastic Surgery shares some general information about taking time off work for plastic surgery.

Suggested Time Off for Popular Plastic Surgery Procedures

Every patient is unique and recovers at their own pace. You should take as much time off from work as you think you will need — it really depends on how you look and feel as you heal. With that said, there are some general suggestions, depending on the area treated.

Most breast surgery patients take about a week off from work. This applies to breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift and male breast reduction patients.

Patients that undergo facial plastic surgery procedures generally take a little more time off from work. Brow lift patients may take one to two weeks, and facelift, rhinoplasty and blepharoplasty patients take at least two weeks off work.

Body contouring patients may take additional time off, depending on their procedure. Mommy makeover, tummy tuck and body lift patients usually take three to four weeks off from work. Liposuction patients generally take about a week off from work.

These suggestions apply to sedentary office jobs. Occupations that are more physically demanding or strenuous may require additional time to recover (or, a coworker may need to perform the strenuous job duties).

Special Considerations for Recovery

Your number one priority during recovery should be to rest as much as possible without worrying about returning to work or your normal activities. You must refrain from any strenuous activities (e.g., bending, lifting, straining) and relax in a comfortable position for the majority of recovery.

When planning for an upcoming procedure, Dr. Chacon encourages you to schedule a few more days off than you think you will need. That way, you won’t feel rushed to return to the office, and if you do feel like going back sooner, it will be a nice surprise to your boss and coworkers.

Also worth mentioning is that while you may feel physically ready to resume work after a week or two, you might have visible swelling or bruising. Some patients (especially facial plastic surgery patients) don’t feel like being around other people in a social setting until these side effects have dissipated. It’s up to you and your personal comfort level.

To speak with Dr. Chacon about your desired procedure and plan for recovery, please contact Divino Plastic Surgery. You can call (858) 633-7546 or send us an email.