Like any surgery, eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, requires a certain level of downtime to aid in healing. Although the surgery is focused on the eye area, excessive movement of any form could potentially hinder the recovery process.

To ensure the best outcome of your blepharoplasty, it’s important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your surgeon. This includes knowing when you can get back into exercise.

The importance of easing yourself back into exercise

During blepharoplasty, surplus skin is removed to address drooping eyelids and minimise the appearance of bags under the eyes. The incisions are then sealed with sutures in a region where the skin is fragile and thin. For a time after the procedure, the area may be bruised, swollen, and inflamed.

Intense motion, heavy lifting, or vigorous exercise can result in increased inflammation, swelling, and bleeding. These factors not only prolong the recovery period but can also cause bruising and scarring. Sutures are generally taken out around 6-7 days post-surgery, when the incisions are most susceptible. If you exercise too soon, the incisions may break open, requiring additional corrective surgery.

Following eyelid surgery, it is crucial to allow your body sufficient time to recuperate before resuming activities such as swimming, yoga inversions, or engaging in moderate to high-intensity exercises.

How long should I wait before I exercise?

Individual healing rates vary, and the duration of your recovery will be influenced by factors such as your pre-surgery fitness level, genetic makeup, the type of blepharoplasty procedure performed (upper, lower, or both), and how closely you follow postoperative guidelines.

In the first three days following a blepharoplasty procedure, your eyes will be swollen and sensitive. During this phase, gentle movement is advised to promote blood flow and facilitate healing. However, excessive motion can be harmful.

By the two-week mark, most patients can gradually reintroduce daily exercise routines. After three weeks, you can start to gradually increase the duration or intensity of your workouts, remembering to take breaks and slow down or stop if you experience any discomfort.

After a month, you can typically incorporate yoga inversions, weightlifting at 60-80% capacity, and medium-impact exercises. Between six to eight weeks after the procedure, most patients find they can return to their pre-surgery fitness regimens.

Exercises to avoid after blepharoplasty

There are certain types of exercises you’ll want to avoid for a set amount of time after a blepharoplasty procedure. For example, swimming should be postponed until your incisions have completely healed.

Steer clear of road cycling too until you are fully recovered, as controlling the intensity can be challenging and may raise the risk of injury. Instead, consider stationary cycling after two weeks, while maintaining low to moderate effort.

Refrain from moderate to heavy lifting until at least four weeks following your eyelid surgery. When resuming lifting, choose lighter weights and prevent straining.

Although zero-impact cardio can be resumed two weeks post-blepharoplasty, it is recommended to avoid strenuous or low to moderate-impact cardio until after 3-4 weeks. Start slowly and incrementally increase intensity over time.

While yoga and Pilates are often perceived as gentle exercises, they may involve strengthening movements that cause strain within the body. Both practices also include postures that position the head below the heart, which should be avoided for at least one month after the surgery.

These are some of the main guidelines to follow when it comes to exercising after blepharoplasty. However, it’s important to follow the specific guidelines given to you by Mr Horlock after the procedure.

 

Understandably, patients have a variety of questions when they consider undergoing breast augmentation. As well as the ins and outs of the procedure, a common question we get asked is whether you can exercise after a boob job.

In this blog, you’ll discover everything you need to know about exercising after a breast operation including whether you need to take a break, and the types of exercises you should avoid.

Will I need to take a break from exercising?

After undergoing breast augmentation surgery, it’s important to take care of your body during the recovery process. While it’s generally safe to engage in light walking, such as taking short walks around the house, you’ll want to avoid heavy exercise for a few weeks until your surgeon gives you the go-ahead.

Light walking is not only safe, but it’s encouraged as it can help to prevent blood clots. So, while you might need to take it easy when it comes to your exercise routine, don’t underestimate the benefits of simply getting up and moving around a bit to aid in your recovery.

Can I still exercise with implants?

If you’re worried that breast implants might limit your ability to stay active, don’t be. One of the great things about breast augmentation is that it doesn’t have to hold you back from doing the things you love. In fact, your surgeon will likely encourage you to maintain an active lifestyle after your surgery to help with your recovery.

During your consultation, you’ll need to discuss your lifestyle and exercise habits with your surgeon. This will help them determine the best type of implant and placement for you, as well as any precautions you should take when exercising post-surgery. It’s important to wear a supportive sports bra when exercising after a boob job, and to get clearance from your surgeon before trying a new activity.

It’s also worth noting that some women may experience changes in breast size or shape if they lose weight when they begin exercising again. However, breast implants themselves are not affected by changes in weight, meaning they can be an excellent option for restoring volume and shape to the breasts after weight loss.

What exercises should I avoid?

While you can resume very light exercise after the procedure, you’ll need to take it easy for a period of two to four weeks to allow the body to fully recover. If you are unsure, follow your surgeon’s advice.

Patience is key when it comes to post-surgery recovery. It’s important to wait until your body has fully healed before returning to the gym or engaging in any other strenuous activities. Going back to the gym too soon can lead to complications that can negatively impact your results and overall health.

Since implants are placed beneath or above the chest muscle, any exercise that puts pressure on your chest or back should be avoided. This includes exercises that target the chest and shoulders, as well as weightlifting or other activities that involve heavy lifting. Overexerting yourself too soon after surgery can lead to complications such as implant shifting, swelling, or even implant rupture.

To ensure the best possible results and minimise the risk of complications, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully. Always consult with them before resuming exercise to ensure that it is safe to do so.

By taking the necessary precautions and giving your body the time it needs to heal properly, you can help to ensure a successful and smooth recovery.

Blepharoplasty has become a popular choice for patients in recent years. This precise procedure can enhance not only the appearance of the eyelids, but also improve their function.

From smoothing wrinkles and removing excess skin, to improving vision, blepharoplasty offers a multitude of benefits. In this blog we will look at some of the top eyelid concerns that the procedure can fix, and why it’s important to choose a skilled surgeon.

What eyelid concerns can blepharoplasty fix?

Blepharoplasty can fix a wide range of eye-related issues. Here’s a rundown of some of the most popular problems the procedure can address…

Droopy eyelid concerns

One of the main goals of eyelid surgery is to correct droopy eyelids. Not only can droopy eyelids cause you to look older, but they can also cause issues with your range of vision. The procedure helps to correct the problem by eliminating excess skin and fat that is gathered in the upper or lower eyelid.

Persistent eye bags

If you have persistent eye bags that aren’t caused by a lack of sleep, blepharoplasty may help. It achieves a more youthful appearance, giving the eyes a brighter, wider effect. To eliminate puffy or visible bags, the surgeon focuses on fixing the lower eyelid area.

Wrinkles and fine lines

The eyes are often one of the first places to develop fine lines and wrinkles. This is down to how thin and sensitive the skin is in that area. Having blepharoplasty can help to smoothen out the entire area around the eyes, successfully eliminating lines and wrinkles.

These are just a few of the most common problems the procedure can fix. It can also work just as effectively as a facelift for helping you to look younger.

The importance of choosing a skilled surgeon

While there are clear benefits of undergoing blepharoplasty and it is a common procedure, the surgery itself is quite complex. There are many things that can go wrong, particularly if you choose an inexperienced surgeon. Just some of the potential problems you might face include:

• Not being able to close your eyes properly after the surgery
• The surgeon has removed too much fat
• Your lower lid is left in the wrong place
• Your eyes look uneven

If you want to achieve the best results and minimise the risk of complications, always choose a skilled and experienced surgeon.

My Nigel Horlock has carried out hundreds of blepharoplasty procedures. He will be able to advise you of the risks, and help you get the best results from the surgery. When done correctly, eyelid surgery can help you to regain your confidence, and achieve a more youthful, aesthetically pleasing look.

A new study has found that the risk of ALCL (Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma), after breast reconstruction surgery is low. The condition has become more prevalent in recent years, largely due to the rise in textured implants. For this reason, many cancer patients who want to undergo breast reconstruction surgery are understandably worried about the risks.

The results of the new research provide much needed reassurance. So, what exactly did it reveal?

Understanding the latest study

The latest study was carried out in Columbia, and its goal was to provide women with accurate information about the risks of ALCL. Researchers used a national cancer registry to assess data from 57,000 women who had undergone implant reconstruction after a mastectomy. Each of the women underwent a follow up around 7 years after the procedure, with approximately 16,000 women followed over a 10-year period.

The study did find that women who had breast reconstructive implants had a higher risk of ALCL than women in general, it was established to be very low. For every 1 million people who undergo the procedure, just 0.3 experience ALCL.

Out of the 57,000 women included in the study, just five of them developed ALCL. This provides reassurance that the procedure is safe for those undergoing breast reconstruction.

The benefits of fat graft breast reconstruction

The reason ALCL cases have risen in recent years is due to textured implants. Thankfully, surgeons have a myriad of options available to them that don’t come with the same level of risks.

One type of breast reconstruction that is renowned for its safety is the fat graft technique. This is a natural method that uses your own body fat to reconstruct the breast. Medically referred to as autologous fat transfer, the procedure takes fat from another area of the body such as the thighs or buttocks and implants it into the breast.

The main benefits of a fat graft breast reconstruction include:

• Fewer risks and complications
• Natural look and feel
• Lower risk of ALCL

As you are using your body’s own fat, there is less chance it will reject the reconstruction. An implant is a foreign body that the body may choose to reject, leading to a range of complications. Another benefit is that a fat graft reconstruction looks and feels a lot more natural than implants.

Are there risks and complications of a fat graft breast reconstruction?

There are very few complications and risks associated with a fat graft breast reconstruction. There is a small risk of infection, cysts, and necrosis. Your surgeon will assess your risk factors, and explain more about the potential complications you might experience. However, most patients experience no negative side effects after undergoing the procedure.

Although ALCL can be a risk with textured implants, there are alternative procedures you can undergo to help reconstruct the breast. When performed correctly, a breast reconstruction surgery can help to improve quality of life, and give you back your confidence.

To find out more about fat grafting breast reconstruction, book a consultation with Mr Horlock. He will be able to answer any questions you may have, as well as help determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.

These days, there is a cosmetic procedure to fix practically any aesthetic issue you may have. Patients no longer face the stigma that used to come from going under the knife, and improvements in the sector have led to more natural results. However, while it might be more popular than ever before, plastic surgery isn’t right for everyone.

Before booking your chosen procedure, you’ll need to check if you are an ideal candidate. While this will ultimately be determined on a case-by-case basis, there are some general reasons you shouldn’t have plastic surgery right now. Here’s some of those reasons to be aware of…

You currently have a health issue

If you currently have a health issue, you might not be a suitable candidate for plastic surgery. All patients should be generally fit and healthy before they go under the knife, otherwise it could lead to complications.

If you have a history of pulmonary or cardiac disease, a family history of anaesthetic complications, or an untreated blood disorder, you will need to talk to your surgeon about the possible risks.

Unrealistic expectations

Plastic surgery can significantly change a person’s appearance. However, there are some things it cannot do.

Having realistic expectations is crucial before you undergo any cosmetic procedure. It is unlikely to transform you into an entirely different person, so trying to look like a certain celebrity for example, might be an unrealistic goal.

Surgeons today focus on producing more natural results. The goal isn’t to make you perfect, it’s to fix issues that you currently have.

You are getting the surgery for somebody else

Plastic surgery is a big deal, especially if you are undergoing a major procedure such as rhinoplasty or breast augmentation. If you are going to go under the knife, it should only be for yourself, not somebody else.

For example, you should never undergo plastic surgery due to pressure from a partner or loved one. It should always be something you have wanted to have done for a while, and not something spontaneous that you might live to regret.

You don’t have support around you

When you have cosmetic surgery, it can take a lot out of your body. Depending upon the procedure, you may need to rest up for a few weeks and limit your daily activities. Without any support around you from friends or family, the recovery period will be tough.

You may need assistance changing bandages or carrying out daily activities. There is also a chance you will be in pain and need help with tasks such as showering. Having adequate support around you while you are recovering is essential and should be part of your post-operative plan.

If you are trying to decide whether plastic surgery is right for you, book a consultation with Mr Nigel Horlock. He will discuss your concerns and help you get a good understanding of what to expect from the procedure you are interested in.