Choosing to undergo cosmetic surgery is a significant personal decision, aimed at improving self-confidence and personal satisfaction. However, to ensure optimal results and minimize risks, it's essential to consider various factors and conditions before taking the plunge. Choosing a competent and experienced surgeon is important, but involving the patient in pre-operative preparation and following post-operative advice is essential to achieving the best results.

Breast Surgery: Breastfeeding and Motherhood

For women considering breast surgery (addition, redraping, reduction), it is often suggested to wait until after they have finished childbearing. Pregnancy and breast-feeding can alter the shape of the breasts, and undergoing surgery before having children can lead to less lasting results. However, this is only a suggestion, not a hard and fast rule, and breast surgery should not adversely affect breastfeeding.

After breast-feeding, it is generally recommended to wait between 3 and 6 months before undergoing breast surgery. This period allows the shape of the breasts to stabilize after the changes that occurred during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and ensures that breast milk production has ceased.

Abdominoplasty: A stable weight

Abdominoplasty is a popular procedure for achieving a flatter, firmer stomach, often after pregnancy or weight loss. However, it is advisable to wait between 6 and 12 months after giving birth before undergoing this surgery, and the most important thing is to maintain a stable weight for at least 6 months before the procedure, as weight fluctuations can affect the result of the operation.

Smoking

It is strongly recommended to stop smoking before any surgery, for at least 1 week before the planned date. Smoking can adversely affect healing and increase the risk of complications. Several resources are available to help you quit smoking before undergoing surgery.

Recovery

Another crucial consideration when planning cosmetic surgery is the time needed for post-operative recovery. Whether it's planning time off work or asking for help with childcare and other daily tasks, it's imperative to ensure that you have the time you need to recover properly, without putting too much pressure on your body during this recovery period. In general, the expected recovery period can look something like this:

• Breast surgery: 1 to 2 weeks

• Abdominoplasty/re-draping of arms, thighs: 2 to 3 weeks

• Facial surgery: 1 to 3 weeks

Avoiding travel for about a month after surgery is recommended to minimize the risk of infection or incision-related complications, especially if you plan to swim or go to the spa. It is also important to avoid exposing scars to the sun for 1 year to prevent them from darkening.

Conclusion

The decision to undergo cosmetic surgery is personal and unique to each individual. However, by adhering to certain conditions, such as the right timing in relation to motherhood, weight stabilization, smoking cessation and post-operative planning, the chances of success can be maximized and potential risks minimized. Detailed discussion with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential to establish a personalized plan that meets the specific needs and expectations of each patient.