By Dr Matthew Peters
As spring starts to transform into summer in Queensland, I’m often asked by patients “When can I hit the beach or pool again?”
It’s a fair question, especially here in Queensland where water activities are a big part of our lifestyle and my body contouring patients are understandably keen to don a bikini for the first time in a while.
Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand but still gives you all the important details.
First off, it’s crucial to remember that every patient’s healing journey is unique and my advice to each patient is therefore individualised on a case-by-case scenario as the timeline for returning to swimming or beach activities can vary based on the specific procedures you’ve had, your overall health, and how well you follow post-operative instructions. That said, let’s look at some general guidelines.
The First Few Weeks: Keep It Dry
Whilst you are an inpatient at hospital, the hospital staff will guide your showering requirements. Once you leave hospital, you may shower as you wish, removing your compression garments but leaving your skin tapes in place.
After your body contouring surgery, it’s vital to keep your incisions clean. This means no swimming, no beach trips, and being extra careful when showering. Why? Because your body is in the early stages of healing, and keeping the incisions dry helps prevent infection and ensures proper wound closure. We definitely want to avoid submerging your body in water or exposing your incisions to sand, salt water, or pool chemicals.
During this time, you’ll likely have follow-up appointments where we’ll check your progress. These check-ups are a great opportunity to ask questions about your specific recovery timeline.
4 Weeks: Testing the Waters
This is typically the earliest I recommend patients consider swimming or beach activities, and even then, it’s on a case-by-case basis. By this time, most incisions have healed externally, but it’s important to remember that internal healing is still ongoing.
If you get the all-clear around this time, start with gentle water activities. Maybe a quick dip in a clean pool or calm ocean waters. Avoid strenuous swimming or water sports for a bit longer.
8-12 Weeks: Diving Back In
For most patients, the 8-12 week mark is when they can fully return to swimming and beach activities. However, there are still some precautions to keep in mind:
- ALWAYS apply a high SPF sunscreen to your incision sites. New scars are particularly sensitive to sun damage. Better still, don’t expose the scars to harsh sunlight at all.
- Consider wearing protective clothing, like a rash guard, to shield your incisions from direct sunlight and reduce friction.
- Rinse off after swimming in pools or the ocean to remove any chlorine, salt, or sand that might irritate your skin.
- Listen to your body. If something feels uncomfortable, take a break.
Remember, these are general guidelines. Your specific timeline might be shorter or longer depending on factors like the extent of your surgery, your body’s healing rate, and how diligently you follow post-operative care instructions.
The Importance of Patience
I know it can be frustrating to put your beach or pool plans on hold, but remember, this is a small sacrifice for stable long-term results. Rushing back into water activities too soon can potentially compromise your results or even lead to complications.
Always communicate with our clinical team about your plans and events. If you have a beach holiday coming up or a special event that involves swimming, let us know well in advance. We can work with you to ensure you’re healing well and give you specific advice for your situation.
Body contouring is a journey, and the recovery period is an important part of that journey. Before you know it, you’ll be back to enjoying all your favourite water activities.
Remember, if you have any concerns or questions during your recovery, our nursing team is always here to help.
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Note: Individual results will vary according to several factors, including genetics, age, diet & exercise. All surgeries carry risk & require an appropriate recovery period & aftercare regime which may include wearing compression garments or modifying your lifestyle post-operatively. You should seek a second opinion from a Specialist Surgeon before proceeding. More information about these risks and aftercare can be easily found on our website here:
