Summertime is calling, but so is your desire to look and feel your best. Maybe you’ve been thinking about a facelift, rhinoplasty, or eyelid surgery, and summer seems like the perfect time to make it happen. After all, you might have time off, the kids are out of school, and you’re already planning some downtime. But how do you balance recovery with upcoming vacations, weddings, or beach plans?
If you’re considering aesthetic surgery this season, Dr. Robert A. Guida, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon in New York City, offers expert advice to help you safely plan your cosmetic procedure without disrupting your travel goals.
Schedule your procedure with enough recovery time
Each procedure comes with a unique recovery period. For example, a rhinoplasty typically requires 7 to 10 days of initial downtime, with residual swelling lasting weeks to months. Eyelid surgery may allow for a quicker recovery in some cases, while facelift patients typically need a few weeks before achieving a photo-ready appearance.
Discuss your timeline with Dr. Guida in advance. He’ll help you set realistic expectations based on your goals and when you plan to travel. Avoid assuming that you can hop on a plane or pose for vacation photos just days after surgery. Giving your body time to heal is essential to achieving the natural, refined look Dr. Guida is known for.
Avoid travel too soon after surgery
Many patients underestimate the potential risks of travel after surgery. Flying too soon, especially within the first week, can increase swelling and discomfort due to cabin pressure and prolonged sitting. You also risk complications like blood clots and limited access to follow-up care if you’re far from your surgeon. If you must travel:
- Wait at least 10 to 14 days after surgery before flying.
- Choose road trips over air travel when possible.
- Book travel only after your first post-op check-up with Dr. Guida confirms you’re healing well.
- When in doubt, wait until you’re cleared to travel.
Avoid direct sun exposure during recovery
Many facial procedures increase your skin’s sensitivity to UV rays. Sun exposure during healing can lead to pigmentation issues, scarring, or prolonged swelling. While summer travel often means time outdoors, it’s critical to protect your healing skin. Dr. Guida advises all patients to avoid direct sunlight for several weeks after facial surgery. This is especially important after procedures such as laser resurfacing, rhinoplasty, or eyelid surgery.
Follow these aftercare tips if you expect exposure to sunlight:
- Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily
- Use a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Avoid midday sun (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when outdoors
Keep activity and temperature in mind
Summer vacations often include heat, humidity, and physical activity, none of which mix well with recent facial surgery. Overheating, sweating, and intense motion can disrupt healing and increase swelling. Swimming is typically restricted for at least 3 to 4 weeks after most facial procedures. If you plan to recover during a vacation, opt for a cooler climate and keep your activities light. Dr. Guida recommends gentle walks and plenty of rest.
Plan for follow-up care with flexibility
Even if you feel well and your incisions look good, follow-up visits are crucial to ensuring optimal healing. Whether you’re getting sutures removed or simply having progress checked, don’t skip these appointments. If you’re planning to travel far:
- Schedule your procedure early enough to allow in-office follow-ups with Dr. Guida.
- Ask about virtual check-ins for added convenience.
- Share your travel plans so your care team can tailor your follow-up schedule.
Coordinate your treatments seasonally
Summer is a great time for some procedures, and a less-than-ideal time for others. For example, laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, or deep exfoliation treatments may increase your risk of sun sensitivity. If you’re planning lots of outdoor activity, it may be better to wait. On the other hand, facelifts, eyelid lifts, and rhinoplasties are commonly scheduled in early summer to allow for visible results by fall. Dr. Guida can help you map out a full-year aesthetic plan.
Be realistic about results during travel
Healing is a gradual process. While you may look presentable and feel great a couple of weeks after surgery, your final results, especially for rhinoplasty or facelifts, may take months to fully settle. Dr. Guida will guide you through what to expect visually and physically as you recover. Plan your travel and social activities with this timeline in mind. You may need to skip makeup, limit photo sessions, or embrace a more low-key vacation while you continue to heal.
Trust an experienced facial plastic surgeon
Aligning surgery with your summer travel requires clear communication, expert timing, and personalized planning. Dr. Robert A. Guida brings over 30 years of experience to every procedure, helping patients look and feel their best without sacrificing their schedules.
If you’re considering cosmetic surgery this summer in NYC, Dr. Guida will help you determine the right procedure and timing for your goals. Schedule your consultation today.
