No. After surgery, whether you have surgery under sedation or general anaesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours.

Recovery times vary by procedure. Most patients can resume light activities after a few weeks and typically return to full activity within six weeks when cleared by your surgeon. Dr Kohout will provide detailed instructions tailored to your specific situation.

Depending on the type of surgery, you will likely be required to wear a compression garment to help with swelling and support recovery. Our clinic team will provide the necessary details.

The recommended period for wearing a compression garment depends on the procedure. Generally, patients may need to wear it for 4-6 weeks to help reduce swelling and optimise the healing process.

Most patients can return to work within 1-3 weeks, depending on the nature of their job and the procedure performed. For those who can work from home, an earlier return on a part-time basis may be possible.

Any surgical procedure involving an incision will leave some form of scarring. Dr Kohout will take special care to reduce the appearance of scarring by using advanced suturing techniques. Over time, scars usually fade, and you may also be advised on scar reduction treatments to help reduce their appearance.

It is advised to avoid direct sun exposure for 12 months post-surgery, as it can lead to hyperpigmentation and worsen scar appearance. When you are outdoors, make sure to apply sunscreen to protect healing skin.

Swelling is common after surgery and can be managed by following your surgeon’s instructions, wearing compression garments, avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the surgical area elevated when possible, and maintaining hydration.

Consult Your Surgeon: Always follow your surgeon’s specific advice. They know your case best – here is a general guideline:

• 1-2 Weeks: Light activities like walking are usually encouraged to promote circulation. Avoid any strenuous exercise.
• 2-4 Weeks: Depending on the procedure and how you feel, you may start to introduce low-impact exercises, like gentle yoga or stretching.
• 4-6 Weeks: Many people can gradually return to their regular workout routines, but avoid high-impact activities or heavy lifting until cleared by your surgeon.
• 6 Weeks and Beyond: Most patients can resume normal exercise. However, listen to your body and ease back into it.

Listen to Your Body:Pay attention to any pain or discomfort and modify your activities accordingly.

High-impact sports like HIIT, horse riding, rock climbing, and bungee jumping typically require more caution after cosmetic surgery. Here’s a general guideline for each:

1. HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training):
   • Timing:Usually recommended to wait at least 6-8 weeks before returning to high-intensity workouts. Make sure you’re cleared by your surgeon.
   • Considerations:Start slowly and listen to your body.
2. Horse Riding:
   • Timing: Generally, wait about 6-8 weeks, as it involves balance and core strength.
   • Considerations:Make sure you feel stable and have regained full mobility.
3. Rock Climbing:
   • Timing:Wait at least 8 weeks, especially if your upper body is involved in the surgery.
   • Considerations:Focus on grip strength and core stability before resuming.
4. Bungee Jumping/Sky Diving:
   • Timing:It’s best to wait at least 3 months or more, depending on the procedure and your recovery.
   • Considerations:This activity can put stress on your body, so you need to be fully healed before you undertake this activity again.

Always consult with your surgeon before diving back into any high-impact activities.

The timing for resuming swimming—whether in the sea or a pool—depends on your surgery and recovery. Here are some general guidelines:

• Consult Your Surgeon: Always get the go-ahead from your healthcare provider first.
• General Timeline
• After Surgery: Most surgeons recommend waiting at least 4-6 weeks before swimming.
• Healing Considerations: Any incisions must be fully healed and you’re need to be free from infection before getting in the water.
• Pool vs Sea:
• Pool: Chlorinated water can be less irritating for healing skin, but still wait until you’re cleared to avoid any risk of infection.
• Sea: Saltwater can irritate healing wounds, so it’s generally advised to wait a bit longer than for a pool—around 6-8 weeks or as recommended by your doctor.

Listen to your body: If you feel any discomfort or see any unusual changes in your healing, postpone swimming until you’re fully healed. Always prioritise your recovery and follow your surgeon’s specific advice!

The timing for getting or removing a tattoo or piercing after surgery can vary based on your specific situation and the type of surgery. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Consult Your Surgeon: Always check with your surgeon for personalised advice.
2. General Timeline:
   • Tattooing: It’s usually recommended to wait at least 4-6 weeks post-surgery. This allows your skin to heal properly.
   • Piercing: For new piercings, waiting about 6-8 weeks is common. If you’re removing a piercing, make sure the area has fully healed from surgery.
3. Considerations:
   • Ensure that your surgical site is completely healed and free of any complications before proceeding.
   • Be mindful of your body’s healing process and avoid any activities that could stress the area.

Always prioritise your recovery and follow your surgeon’s advice for the best results!

For short domestic flights, it is usually safe to travel 2-3 weeks after surgery. For international travel, wait at least 6-8 weeks. Always consult Dr Kohout before making any travel plans for your own safety during recovery.

If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as excessive swelling, severe pain, or signs of infection, contact the clinic immediately. Dr Kohout’s team is available to provide assistance and address any concerns you may have during your recovery.