Question 1

How soon can I shower after surgery?

Accepted Answer

As Mr. Sterne has dressed your wounds with 'medical grade superglue' you may shower on a daily  basis. Please take care NOT to get the splash-proof dressing on your nipples overly wet. When you  dry yourself it is important that you do not rub your chest. You should therefore pat yourself dry  with a towel, and then use a hairdryer, on a low heat setting (if it is hot you may inadvertently burn  yourself as the area may be numb) until it is perfectly dry.

If the wound is healing nicely at your one week post-operative appointment, micropore tape will  be applied to the scars.

You may bath or shower with this tape in place, and again you can simply pat it dry with a towel  and then dry it with a hairdryer (on a low heat setting to avoid burning your skin, which may be  numb) after each bath/shower.

The tape usually stays in place for 5-7 days and then needs to be replaced with clean tape.

Question 2

How soon can I drive after surgery?

Accepted Answer

You will not be able to drive after surgery. Generally, patients can consider driving two weeks after  surgery however you must ensure the following:
- Have full range of motion with your arms
- No longer be taking strong pain medication 
- Have full control of the vehicle 
- Be able to complete an emergency stop without hesitation

Please note that this is only a recommendation and everyone recovers differently so if you do not  feel you are able to you should not be driving.

Question 3

Can I go out in the sun?

Accepted Answer

The delicate scar tissue is at greater risk of sunburn if exposed to the sun, therefore, you are  advised to avoid sun exposure to any scar tissue for the first six weeks of healing.

Scar tissue remains highly sensitive for the first six months post-op, so it’s best to avoid any sun exposure during this time. If you’re outdoors, apply a high-SPF sunscreen — even beneath clothing if the fabric isn’t sun-protective. For the best chance of minimising long-term scarring, try to avoid direct sunlight on the area for up to 12 months.

Question 4

When can I go swimming?

Accepted Answer

In general, individuals are often advised to refrain from swimming for several weeks to allow for  proper healing and to reduce the risk of infection. Swimming pools, hot tubs, and natural bodies of  water may contain bacteria that can increase the risk of infection, and the incision sites need time  to heal and close properly. Additionally, exposure to water during the initial recovery phase may  affect the appearance of scars.

It is recommended to abstain from swimming for at least 6 weeks, and it is essential to confirm that  the wound has completely healed before resuming aquatic activities.

Question 5

How long until I can start exercising again?

Accepted Answer

For the first two weeks after your operation you should abstain from all exercise. Increasing your  blood pressure increases the risk of bleeding or swelling, which in turn increases the risk of  developing poor quality scars. At one week post-operative you may commence gentle arm movements and arm exercises you should be ready to recommence light duties, such as making a cup of tea etc.

After two weeks you can commence light household duties, but should avoid heavy lifting for at  least a month.

By six weeks post operatively you may recommence light gym work, and should be able to return  to full normal activities.

Question 6

How long until I can return to work?

Accepted Answer

Following your Top Surgery, the type of job that you do determines when you can return to work. If your job is mainly deskwork, you may feel able to return to work after two to three weeks. However more physical occupations may require five to six weeks of recuperation before you feel  able to return to work.

Question 7

How long should I massage my scars for?

Accepted Answer

At your six week appointment with Mr. Sterne, you will be advised on moisturising and massaging  your scar with cream (E45, Nivea, Johnson's Baby lotion, BioOil etc.) and rubbing quite vigorously,  the aim being to soften the scar and speed up final scar maturation.

Consistency is key and scar massage should be continued at least once a day for 4 – 6 months after  surgery as it can significantly contribute to optimal healing outcomes.

Question 8

How long until I can recommence smoking?

Accepted Answer

Mr. Sterne will have advised you that it is important to stop smoking prior to your operation in order to reduce the risks of complications. Once your wound has fully healed it is safe to  recommence smoking if you wish to do so. You should however, avoid smoking for at least the first  three weeks post operatively.

Question 9

How long until I can drink alcohol?

Accepted Answer

In general, it is advisable to avoid alcohol during the initial phase of recovery, which typically spans  the first few weeks. Alcohol consumption can potentially interfere with the healing process, medications, and may increase the risk of complications such as bleeding or adverse reactions to anesthesia or pain medications.

Guy Sterne
Plastic Surgeon

Frequently Asked Questions