Returning to Exercise After Plastic Surgery

Returning to Exercise After Plastic Surgery

One of the most common questions patients ask after plastic surgery is, “When can I start exercising again?” Whether you’re someone who hits the gym regularly, enjoys long walks, or just wants to get back to feeling active, it’s completely natural to want to resume movement as soon as possible. However, jumping back into exercise too soon can do more harm than good.

In this blog, we’ll look at what you need to know about returning to exercise after surgery, why taking it slowly matters, and how to strike the right balance between staying active and allowing your body to heal.

Why rest comes first

After surgery, your body needs time to recover. No matter how fit or healthy you were beforehand, surgery is still a form of trauma, and healing properly is the priority. In the first few days after your procedure, rest is key. This is when your body begins repairing tissue, reducing inflammation, and laying the groundwork for long-term results.

Pushing yourself too early can interfere with this process. Not only can it lead to swelling or bruising, but it can also stretch or disrupt healing incisions, increasing the risk of complications. In some cases, overdoing it too soon can affect the final aesthetic result, so it’s worth taking those early days seriously, even if you’re itching to get moving.

When can you start moving again?

The answer depends on the type of procedure you’ve had. More involved surgeries like tummy tucks, breast augmentations, or facelifts will usually require a longer recovery period before you return to regular physical activity. On the other hand, less invasive procedures may allow for gentle movement sooner.

As a general guide, most patients are encouraged to start walking short distances within a few days of surgery. This helps to keep your circulation going and helps to reduce the risk of blood clots.  Think of it as low-effort movement, not formal exercise.

After around two to three weeks, depending on how you’re healing, you may be able to introduce light activity like walking for longer periods or gentle stretching. Anything high-impact like running, weightlifting, or core workouts, should be avoided until your surgeon gives you the go-ahead. For some procedures, that could be four to six weeks; for others, it might be longer.

Follow your surgeon’s aftercare advice

The golden rule when returning to exercise after plastic surgery is to listen, both to your surgeon and your body. No two recoveries are the same, so what works for one person may not be right for another. Mr Nigel Horlock provides clear, personalised aftercare advice for every patient, including guidance on when it’s safe to increase activity.

It’s also worth noting that feeling fine doesn’t always mean you’re fully healed. Some internal healing takes longer than you might realise, and it’s possible to damage tissue even if you’re not in pain. That’s why professional advice is so important. It’s about doing what’s best for your long-term results, not just how you feel in the moment.

If you ever feel sharp pain, swelling, or pulling around your incision sites during or after activity, it’s a sign to stop and rest. There’s no benefit in pushing through discomfort when your body is telling you to slow down.

The right exercise at the right time

Once you’ve been given the all-clear to return to full activity, regular exercise can be a fantastic way to support your results. It helps maintain weight, boosts circulation, improves mood, and keeps your body feeling strong and balanced. However, getting there takes patience.

By easing back into movement gradually, you’re giving your body the best chance to heal well and enjoy the results of your surgery for years to come.

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Can a Mummy Makeover Remove Stretch Marks?

Mummy Makeover

If you’ve had children, you’ll know just how much your body can change during and after pregnancy. While stretch marks are completely normal, and incredibly common, they’re also one of the top concerns for many women thinking about a post-baby body makeover.

A ‘mummy makeover’ is designed to restore and reshape areas of the body most affected by pregnancy, but can it actually remove stretch marks?

In this blog, we’ll look at what a mummy makeover includes, how it could help with stretch marks, and what other treatment options may be worth considering as part of your post-pregnancy plan.

What exactly is a mummy makeover?

A mummy makeover isn’t one single procedure, it’s a personalised combination of surgeries designed to target the areas most affected by pregnancy and childbirth. For many women, that includes the breasts, tummy, and sometimes the hips or thighs. The most common elements are a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), breast surgery (such as augmentation, a lift, or both), and sometimes liposuction to reshape certain areas and restore balance.

The aim is to help women feel more confident in their post-baby bodies, not to chase perfection, but to feel more like you again.

Can stretch marks be removed?

The short answer is it depends on where the stretch marks are. A tummy tuck, which is often a core part of a mummy makeover, can remove stretch marks that sit on the lower part of the abdomen, especially those below the belly button. This is because the procedure involves removing excess skin in that area and tightening the muscles underneath. If your stretch marks fall within the skin that’s being removed, then yes, they’ll go with it.

However, stretch marks that are higher up on the abdomen, or on the sides of the tummy, likely won’t be removed during surgery. They may become less noticeable once the skin is tightened, but they won’t disappear completely. The same goes for stretch marks on the breasts. While a breast lift or augmentation can reshape and reposition the tissue, it won’t erase stretch marks entirely, though it may improve how they appear.

When can you have a mummy makeover postpartum?

It’s important to give your body time to recover before considering any kind of surgery. Most surgeons, including Mr Nigel Horlock, recommend waiting at least 6 months after giving birth, and ideally a few months after you’ve finished breastfeeding. This gives your hormones time to settle, your skin a chance to recover, and ensures that your weight has stabilised. It is worth bearing in mind that if you’re planning further pregnancies, this will impact your results.

During your consultation, you’ll be able to talk through your post-pregnancy journey, your goals, and what’s possible based on your body now, not just what it used to be.

Book a consultation today

A mummy makeover can do a lot. It can lift, flatten, reshape, and restore. And yes, in many cases, it can help reduce or even remove certain stretch marks, especially those on the lower tummy. However, it’s not a guaranteed fix for every mark or scar.

If you’re considering a mummy makeover and want to know what’s possible for you, book a consultation with Mr Nigel Horlock to talk through your options.

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What is Delayed Breast Reconstruction?

Delayed Breast Reconstruction

If you’ve had, or are planning to have a mastectomy, one of the biggest decisions to consider is whether, and when, to have breast reconstruction. While some women choose to have reconstruction at the same time as their mastectomy, others may wait. This is known as delayed breast reconstruction, and for many patients, it offers a flexible path to rebuilding confidence and body image after cancer treatment.

In this blog, we’ll look at what delayed reconstruction involves, why some women choose it over immediate surgery, and how Mr Nigel Horlock supports patients through this personal journey.

What does delayed reconstruction mean?

Delayed breast reconstruction refers to having reconstructive surgery weeks, months, or even years after a mastectomy. This approach gives patients time to focus on their cancer treatment and recovery.

Some patients know from the start that they want reconstruction but opt to delay it because of upcoming treatments like radiotherapy, which can affect the skin and tissue around the chest. Others aren’t sure what kind of reconstruction they want, or whether they want it at all, and prefer to revisit the decision once the dust has settled.

Why choose delayed over immediate reconstruction?

There are several medical and emotional reasons why delayed reconstruction could be the best option.

From a clinical point of view, delayed reconstruction avoids any complications from surgery interfering with ongoing cancer treatment. If you need radiotherapy or chemotherapy after your mastectomy, it’s often better to let those treatments finish before going ahead with reconstruction. This helps to ensure that the reconstruction site isn’t compromised by radiation and gives your body the best chance to heal.

It also allows for a clearer assessment of the chest area after treatment. In some cases, scarring or skin changes only become fully visible months down the line, and planning reconstruction after these changes have settled can lead to a more tailored and successful outcome.

From an emotional perspective, the delayed approach gives patients more time to consider their options. Breast reconstruction is a deeply personal decision and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some women feel ready to make that choice straight away, while others need time to process everything they’ve been through and decide what they want for their body going forward.

What are the options for delayed reconstruction?

The surgical options for delayed reconstruction are similar to those used in immediate procedures. You may choose to have implant-based reconstruction, where a tissue expander is used to gradually stretch the skin before placing a breast implant. Alternatively, you may prefer autologous reconstruction, which uses tissue from another part of your body, such as the abdomen or back, to recreate a natural-looking breast. For 86% of patients in one study, restoration of the body image was the most important aspect, irrespective of the type of reconstruction.

Each method has its pros and cons, and your choice will depend on factors like your medical history, body shape, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Mr Nigel Horlock has extensive experience in all forms of breast reconstruction, and he’ll talk you through your options in detail, helping you choose the approach that fits best with your needs and goals.

Book a consultation to explore your options

One of the most empowering aspects of delayed breast reconstruction is that there’s no strict timeline. Whether you’re exploring your options soon after a mastectomy or thinking about surgery years later, Mr Nigel Horlock will guide you with empathy, expertise, and personalised care every step of the way.

If you’re considering reconstruction but aren’t sure when, or how, to take the next step, call 02380 764969 to book a consultation with Mr Horlock to explore your options and make a plan that works for you.

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Breastfeeding with Implants

breast feeding with implants

If you’ve had breast implants, or you’re thinking about getting them, you may be wondering how they’ll affect your ability to breastfeed in the future. It’s one of the most common questions women ask, especially those who are planning to have children or expand their family down the line.

The good news is that in many cases, it is possible to breastfeed with implants. However, like anything related to surgery and the body, it depends on a few key factors.

In this blog, we’ll explore what you need to know about breastfeeding with implants, what to expect, and how a breast lift can help restore shape and confidence after the baby stage.

Can you Breastfeed with Implants?

Yes, in most cases, women with breast implants can breastfeed successfully. Whether or not you can breastfeed depends more on how the original surgery was performed than on the implants themselves.

If your implants were placed under the muscle (a common technique), and the incisions were made under the breast or in the armpit, there’s usually little or no disruption to the milk ducts or nerves involved in breastfeeding. In these cases, milk production is often unaffected.

However, if the incision was made around the areola, there’s a slightly higher chance that some milk ducts or nerves may have been affected during surgery. That doesn’t automatically mean you can’t breastfeed, it just means milk supply could be lower, or that sensation may be reduced in the area, which can sometimes impact let-down.

If you haven’t had surgery yet but are considering implants and plan to breastfeed in the future, be sure to raise this in your consultation. Your surgeon can help guide the approach to maximise the chances of keeping all breastfeeding functions intact.

Will Breastfeeding Affect My Implants?

Breastfeeding won’t harm your implants, but pregnancy and feeding can still affect the way your breasts look and feel. As your breasts grow and shrink with milk production, the surrounding tissue and skin stretch and contract. Once feeding stops, this can sometimes leave the breasts looking flatter or less firm, even if the implants themselves haven’t changed at all.

This is one reason why many women choose to have breast surgery after they’ve finished having children. That way, the results aren’t affected by future changes related to pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, if you already have implants, rest assured that feeding your baby won’t cause damage to the implants themselves.

Considering a Breast Lift After Breastfeeding

While breastfeeding itself is a natural and rewarding experience, it can take a toll on the shape and position of your breasts, especially if you already have implants. Some women find that once they’ve stopped breastfeeding, their breasts feel deflated or sit lower than before, even with implants in place.

As we’ve explored in this blog on post-breastfeeding breast lifts, many mothers choose to have a breast uplift to restore the breast’s natural position, remove excess skin, and bring back a firmer, more youthful shape. In some cases, the lift is done alongside implant replacement or size adjustment, depending on how your body has changed.

It’s a popular option because it focuses on reshaping what’s already there, rather than starting over. If your implants are still in good condition and you’re happy with the volume, a lift alone may be all you need to feel more confident in your post-baby body.

If you’re considering implants or wondering about your options post-breastfeeding, Mr Nigel Horlock can help guide you. To find out more, book a consultation.

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Scar Discolouration After Surgery

scar discolouration

Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after any surgery, including cosmetic procedures. Most people expect that a scar will slowly fade away, but this isn’t always the case.

Sometimes, scars can darken and become more visible. This is known as scar discolouration, and while it’s usually harmless, it can feel frustrating when you’ve gone through surgery to feel more confident in your appearance.

In this blog, we’ll break down what scar discolouration is, why it happens, and what you can do to help your scars settle in the best possible way over time.

What is Scar Discolouration?

Scar discolouration refers to any change in colour that makes a scar stand out more than it would if it faded normally. This can include redness, purplish tones, or areas where the scar appears darker (hyperpigmentation) or lighter (hypopigmentation) than the surrounding skin. For some people, the colour change is temporary, while for others, it can be more persistent.

It’s important to remember that all scars go through phases of healing. In the early weeks, it’s completely normal for a scar to look pink, red, or even slightly raised. This is simply your body’s way of repairing the skin and producing new tissue. Over time, scars usually soften and fade, but the timeline can vary from person to person, and so can the final result.

Why Does It Happen?

There are a few key reasons why scar discolouration happens, and most of them are linked to how your body heals and external factors that affect the healing process.

One of the biggest causes is sun exposure. Fresh scars are especially sensitive to UV rays, which can trigger an increase in melanin (the pigment in your skin) and cause the scar to darken more than the surrounding skin. This is why sun protection is such a big part of post-operative care, especially during the first 6-12 months when scars are still maturing.

Even if a scar looks healed, deeper layers of the skin may still be developing, and exposure to sunlight too soon can lead to long-term discolouration.

Skin type and tone also play a role. People with darker skin tones are more likely to develop hyperpigmented scars, while those with lighter skin may experience redness that takes longer to fade. Genetics, overall health, and how your body responds to injury can all influence the way scars heal.

Another factor is irritation or tension on the scar. If a wound is healing under too much pressure, either from movement, tight clothing, or poorly positioned incisions, it can lead to thicker, darker scars. Infections, delayed healing, or picking at scabs can also increase the risk of discolouration.

Supporting Healthy Scar Healing

The good news is that there are several ways to support healthy scar healing and reduce the risk of long-term scar discolouration.

First, follow your surgeon’s aftercare advice carefully. This may include keeping the area clean, avoiding strain or friction on the incision site, and using medical-grade silicone gels or dressings. These products can help flatten and soften scars over time, and they’re especially helpful in the early stages of healing.

Second, continue protecting your scars from the sun, even after the initial recovery period. Using a high-SPF sunscreen or keeping scars covered when outdoors can go a long way in preventing pigmentation problems down the line.

And finally, be patient. Scars can take up to a year, or even longer, to fully mature. What looks red or raised at three months may look completely different by month twelve. If you’re concerned about how your scars are healing or notice any unusual changes, Mr Nigel Horlock is always happy to review your progress and offer tailored advice.

While scar discolouration is a common part of healing, it doesn’t have to define your results. With good care and the right support, most scars fade beautifully over time, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of your surgery with confidence.

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Debunking 5 Common Myths About Breast Lifts

Myths About Breast Lifts

Breast lifts are a popular procedure for women who want to restore a more youthful shape and position to their breasts. Despite this, there are still plenty of misconceptions that can make patients uncertain about whether a lift is right for them.

Some myths come from outdated information, while others are the result of confusion between a breast lift and other procedures.

Here are five of the most common myths about breast lifts, and the truth behind them.

Myth 1: A breast lift will make your breasts bigger

One of the most common myths about breast lifts is that they can increase cup size. In reality, the goal of a lift is to reshape and reposition, not enlarge. By removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue, the breasts are lifted into a more youthful position.

For women who also want more volume, a breast lift can be combined with implants, but the lift itself does not add size. Many women actually notice that their breasts look fuller simply because they sit higher on the chest.

Myth 2: You can achieve the same results with exercise or creams

Exercise is excellent for improving overall health and strengthening the chest muscles that lie beneath the breast, but it cannot tighten stretched skin or lift breast tissue that has changed over time.
Similarly, no cream or topical treatment can reverse sagging. Breast lifts are surgical for a reason. They directly address the skin and tissue that contribute to drooping, delivering results that cannot be achieved from workouts or skincare products.

Myth 3: Breast lifts leave highly visible scars

All surgery leaves scars, but with breast lifts, the incisions are placed carefully to minimise visibility. Over time, most scars fade significantly and can often be hidden by clothing, including swimsuits and bras.

Advances in surgical techniques also mean scars are now finer and more discreet than they once were. Patients who follow aftercare advice and allow time for healing are usually pleased with how subtle their scars become compared to the improvement in shape and position.

Myth 4: Recovery takes a very long time

While recovery is an important part of the process, most women find it easier than they expect. Discomfort is generally manageable, and many patients return to desk-based work within a week or two. Light activity is encouraged early on, with heavier exercise avoided until healing has progressed.

Full recovery takes a few months, but most of the visible improvement is noticeable right away, and patients often feel more confident in their appearance soon after surgery.

Myth 5: Results don’t last long

Another common myth about breast lifts is that the results are only temporary. In reality, the results are long-lasting, although they cannot stop the natural aging process. Over time, gravity, changes in weight, or pregnancy may affect breast shape again, but most women enjoy the benefits of their lift for many years.

Choosing a qualified surgeon, maintaining a stable weight, and following healthy lifestyle habits all contribute to keeping results at their best.

Making an informed decision

Breast lifts can improve comfort, confidence, and the way clothing fits. Like any cosmetic procedure, they require careful thought and realistic expectations, but they can be highly rewarding for the right patient.

If you are considering a breast lift and would like to find out more, book a consultation with Mr Nigel Horlock today.

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Government TikTok Campaign Highlights the Risks of Cosmetic Procedures Abroad

Cosmetic Procedures Abroad

Travelling abroad for cosmetic surgery has become increasingly popular, often because procedures are offered at lower prices than in the UK. Social media has amplified the trend, with platforms like TikTok filled with transformation videos and stories of quick trips overseas. However, behind the glossy marketing, there are risks that patients are not always aware of.

To address this, the UK government has launched a new campaign highlighting the potential dangers of having procedures abroad. By working with TikTok, the initiative aims to reach younger audiences where much of this content is shared, and provide clear, trustworthy information to help people make safer choices.

What the new campaign highlights

On the surface, travelling abroad for surgery can seem attractive. Procedures are often marketed as quick, affordable, and paired with the promise of a holiday-like experience. However, lower costs may be linked with differences in safety standards, regulation, and follow-up care.

Complications such as infection, poor wound healing, or unsatisfactory results can occur anywhere, but if they happen abroad, patients may find it harder to get appropriate support once they return home.

The campaign highlights these issues and encourages people to think carefully about the whole picture, not just the cost or the short-term result. Cosmetic surgery is still surgery, and while it can be life-enhancing when done safely, it carries real risks that need to be understood.

The role of TikTok

By using TikTok, the government is meeting potential patients where they are most likely to be looking for information and inspiration. Short videos are being used to explain the risks of overseas surgery in clear, accessible ways. Content includes testimonials, medical advice, and practical points to consider, all designed to counterbalance the glossy marketing messages that can dominate social media feeds.

This approach reflects how people increasingly make healthcare decisions by scrolling through content that appears on their phone screens. The hope is that by offering credible, trustworthy information on the same platforms, patients will be better equipped to weigh the risks and make informed choices.

What patients should keep in mind

The campaign emphasises the importance of making decisions with safety at the forefront.

If you are considering surgery abroad, it is essential to check the credentials and memberships of the surgeon and the clinic, understand what aftercare will be available once you are back in the UK, and be realistic about the risks and the outcome.

To learn more about the dangers of going abroad for surgery you can read our previous blog here.

Patients who choose to have procedures in the UK with experienced plastic surgeons like Mr Nigel Horlock benefit from strict regulatory frameworks, established safety standards, and easier access to follow-up care if needed. This can make a significant difference if complications arise, as continuity of care is a key factor in recovery and long-term results.

Mr Horlock welcomes any initiative that prioritises patient safety and supports informed decision-making. Cosmetic procedures can be highly rewarding when carried out responsibly, but they should never be rushed into or treated lightly.

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How Sun, Smoking, and Sleep Can Affect Your Cosmetic Surgery Results

Cosmetic Surgery Results

When it comes to getting the best results from cosmetic surgery, most people focus on choosing the right procedure and an experienced surgeon, which, of course, is essential. But your everyday habits can have just as much impact on how well you heal and how long your results last.

Things like sun exposure, smoking, and even poor sleep can interfere with your recovery and affect the final outcome.

If you’re planning surgery, or you’ve already had it, paying attention to these lifestyle factors can make a big difference to how your body responds.

UV exposure and healing skin

There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a bit of sunshine, but when it comes to healing skin, UV exposure can be a problem. Fresh scars are especially sensitive to the sun, and even limited exposure can lead to long-term discolouration. This is known as hyperpigmentation, where the scar becomes darker than the surrounding skin, and it can make scars more visible than they need to be.

If you’ve had a facelift, breast surgery, or any procedure with visible incisions, protecting your skin from the sun is essential. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or above), keeping treated areas covered while outdoors, and avoiding tanning beds completely.

The impact of nicotine on cosmetic surgery

You’ve probably heard it before, but it’s worth repeating: Smoking and cosmetic surgery do not mix. Nicotine affects blood flow and oxygen levels, both of which are crucial for proper healing. It increases the risk of complications such as infections, poor wound healing, skin loss, and even implant-related issues.

For procedures involving lifts, tight skin closures, or fat grafting (where survival of transferred fat depends on blood supply), smoking is particularly risky. It can reduce the amount of fat that survives after grafting and affect the final shape and feel of your results.

Even vaping or using nicotine patches can have similar effects. Surgeons usually recommend stopping all nicotine use at least two weeks before and after surgery, but the longer you can stay away from it, the better.

The importance of quality sleep

Getting enough rest is one of the most powerful things you can do to support recovery. When you sleep, your body produces the hormones and proteins it needs to repair tissues, reduce inflammation, and build new cells.

Poor sleep can also increase your stress levels, which can slow down healing and leave you feeling more run-down during recovery. It’s a good idea to plan ahead so your sleeping environment is as calm and comfortable as possible post-surgery. This could mean using extra pillows, sleeping on your back if advised, and keeping screens or distractions to a minimum in the evening.

If pain is making it difficult to rest, talk to your surgeon about safe ways to manage discomfort while supporting your recovery.

Support for longer-lasting results

Surgery can offer fantastic results, but maintaining them is a team effort between you and your body. Protecting your skin, quitting harmful habits, and giving yourself enough rest all contribute to smoother healing and longer-lasting outcomes.

Mr Nigel Horlock offers detailed aftercare advice tailored to each patient, helping you understand what to expect and how to support your recovery at home. If you’re considering cosmetic surgery and want to make sure you’re doing everything possible to get the best result, a consultation is a great place to start.

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How Long Does Fat Grafting Really Last?

Fat Grafting

Fat grafting has become an increasingly popular option for those looking for a natural-looking enhancement. Whether it’s used for breast augmentation, facial rejuvenation, or restoring volume elsewhere in the body, the appeal is easy to see. You’re using your own fat to enhance or restore shape, without implants or synthetic fillers.

But one of the most common questions patients ask is, ‘how long does it actually last?’

Fat grafting can offer long-lasting results, but it’s important to understand how the process works and what factors can affect the outcome. Like any cosmetic procedure, managing expectations is key to making a confident, informed decision.

What happens during fat grafting?

Fat grafting (also known as fat transfer) involves removing fat from one part of the body, often the stomach, hips, or thighs, using liposuction. That fat is then processed and carefully injected into another area that needs volume or reshaping. Common uses include subtle breast enhancement, adding fullness to the cheeks or under-eye area, and softening deep lines in the face.

As the fat comes from your own body, there’s no risk of allergic reaction or rejection. The results are often subtle, and in many cases, fat grafting can be done alongside other procedures such as a breast lift or facial surgery.

How long do fat grafting results last?

Once fat has been transferred, your body needs time to establish a new blood supply to support those fat cells. Some of the transferred fat will not survive this process and will naturally be reabsorbed by the body, usually within the first few weeks after the procedure.

On average, about 60-80% of the fat survives long-term. The rest is gradually lost, which is completely normal and expected. The fat that does take tends to stay put, and the results can last for many years, sometimes even permanently, provided your weight stays fairly stable.

It’s worth noting that some patients need more than one session to achieve their ideal outcome, particularly when larger volume changes are involved. This is especially true in natural breast augmentation, where a further fat transfer may be required if you’re aiming for a more noticeable difference.

How to ensure lasting results

Several factors can influence how much of the fat survives and how long your results last. Your general health, the technique used, and how well you follow post-procedure instructions all play a role. Smoking, for example, can reduce blood flow and affect fat survival, so it’s strongly advised to stop both before and after the procedure.

Weight changes can also impact your results. If you lose a significant amount of weight after the procedure, you may notice a reduction in volume in the treated area, just as you would in other parts of the body. Similarly, major weight gain can increase volume unpredictably, so maintaining a steady weight is important for long-lasting results.

In facial fat grafting, the changes are usually more subtle, but they can still be impressive. Volume lost through ageing can be restored with fat to the cheeks, temples, and jawline. While some of that volume will fade as the fat settles, the remaining result is often long-lasting, softening your features and giving a more youthful, refreshed appearance.

What should you expect?

Fat grafting isn’t an instant or one-size-fits-all solution. Results take time to develop as swelling subsides and the fat settles. In the first few weeks, you may look slightly fuller than expected and that’s partly due to swelling and the fat that won’t survive long-term. As your body adjusts, the final result gradually becomes visible over the following months.

If you’re considering fat grafting, it’s important to go in with realistic expectations and a clear understanding of the process. Mr Nigel Horlock has extensive experience in natural breast augmentation, facial rejuvenation, and body contouring using fat transfer. During your consultation, he’ll talk you through what to expect, and how to achieve results that feel both natural and lasting.

If you’re ready to explore fat grafting, get in touch to book a consultation.

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Travelling After Cosmetic Surgery

Travel after cosmetic surgery

If you’ve recently had cosmetic surgery, or you’re planning to, chances are you’ve also thought about how soon you can get on a plane, head off on holiday, or simply return home if you’ve travelled for treatment.

While it’s completely normal to look forward to getting back to everyday life (or taking a well-earned break), travelling too soon after surgery can interfere with healing and increase your risk of complications.

In this blog, we’ll explore what you need to consider when it comes to flying, wound care, and even sun exposure after cosmetic surgery.

When is travelling safe after cosmetic surgery?

The timing of your return to travel depends on the type of surgery you’ve had and how smoothly your recovery is going. In general, short-haul flights should be avoided for at least 7 days following most cosmetic procedures, while long-haul flights often require a longer wait (around 4 to 6 weeks is typical). This is to reduce the risk of complications such as swelling, clotting (particularly deep vein thrombosis), and delayed healing.

Long periods of sitting can increase swelling and pressure in areas that are still recovering. After surgeries like tummy tucks, breast augmentation, or facial procedures, your body needs time to rest, and flying too soon can add unnecessary strain.

If you’re unsure when it’s safe to travel, speak to your surgeon during your follow-up appointment. They’ll be able to advise based on how your individual recovery is progressing.

Protecting your wounds

Even if you’re cleared to travel, your body is still in recovery mode, and taking care of your healing wounds should remain a top priority. Dressings should stay clean, dry, and secure, particularly during long journeys when access to clean facilities might be limited.

Be mindful of movement, friction, and pressure on surgical sites, especially when carrying luggage, sitting for extended periods, or navigating through busy airports.

Wearing any compression garments that you’ve been advised to use is important, even while flying, as they help with circulation and support the surgical area. Staying hydrated and taking short walks on the plane (where safe to do so), can also help reduce swelling and support recovery.

It’s wise to bring any medications, aftercare products, or spare dressings in your carry-on bag.

Sun and scars

If your travel plans include sunshine, it’s essential to protect healing scars from UV rays. Fresh scars are particularly sensitive to sunlight and can darken permanently when exposed too early, leading to long-term discolouration. This process, known as hyperpigmentation, is more likely to occur in the first few months after surgery when the skin is still fragile and producing new collagen.

Even if your scar looks healed on the surface, deeper layers of tissue may still be mending. Always use high-factor sunscreen (ideally SPF 50), keep scars covered when possible, and avoid sunbeds and prolonged sun exposure during your initial recovery period. Taking these small steps can make a big difference to how your scars look in the long run.

If you have any questions about when it’s safe to travel after surgery, or how to care for yourself while you’re away, Mr Nigel Horlock will be happy to advise you during your consultation or follow-up appointments.

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