Drs. Koeijers on having treatment in the summer

Many people prefer to postpone an aesthetic procedure until winter. Less sun, less sweat, easier to wear recovery garments - at least, that is the idea. But summer is actually a good time for an operation.

During the summer months, many people are on holiday or at least have fewer commitments. No sports matches, no work stress, no social rush: circumstances in which your body can recover optimally from a plastic surgery procedure. That rest is important, but in the right proportion. Sitting completely still is not necessary and is even undesirable. Light exercise, such as walking, is actually good for your recovery, because it stimulates blood circulation. And let's be honest: in summer, a walk around the block is a lot more appealing than on a bleak winter's day.

Happier and more energetic
"Sunlight also has a beneficial effect on your recovery," says drs. G. Koeijers. "It stimulates the production of vitamin D, which is important for your immune system. People also often feel happier and more energetic in summer, and that state of mind is important. It helps with coping with pain, promotes recovery and makes the whole process more pleasant."

It is important to protect your scars well against the sun. Scars do not yet contain pigment and therefore burn more quickly. So make sure you do not expose your scar to direct sunlight, use a high SPF or wear protective clothing. "If you have had an upper eyelid correction, for example, you can sit under a parasol with sunglasses on without any problem," says drs. Koeijers.

Faster recovery when it is warm
The temperature also makes summer a good time for a procedure. Heat dilates the capillaries in your skin, so waste products are removed more effectively and your body can recover more quickly. "A pleasant summer temperature is generally beneficial," says drs. Koeijers. "As long as you make sure there is enough ventilation and you do not overheat, warmth really is no objection. Sweating is a normal mechanism of your body - it poses no problem at all for wound healing."

In addition to sufficient rest and exercise, hydration is also important. Your body loses more fluid in warm weather, and you need to replenish it - especially if you are recovering from a procedure. Drs. Koeijers: "It helps to remove waste products released during the healing process. Many people automatically drink more in summer anyway, but if you have just had an operation, it is wise to be extra alert to this."

Nutrition, hydration and good circulation
Nutrition also plays a role. Summer fruits such as kiwi and citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C - good for collagen production and wound closure. Once a wound has closed, it can also help to massage scars and apply a vitamin E cream. "Nutrition, hydration and good circulation really are the three pillars of a good recovery," the doctor emphasises. Some treatments, such as liposuction or a tummy tuck, require you to wear a tight compression garment. In summer that is a little less comfortable, but perfectly manageable if you know what to expect. "The most important thing is that you keep wearing the garment as prescribed," says the doctor. "It ensures that the skin adheres properly and that swelling is limited. You can prepare for this well with airy clothing, good ventilation or perhaps a fan. Often, after two weeks, you no longer need to wear such a compression garment continuously during the day, which makes it perfectly manageable in summer too."

Free consultation
In warm countries such as Brazil, Colombia and Curaçao - where it is always warm - aesthetic operations are carried out all year round. Drs. Koeijers himself worked on Curaçao for many years. "People there often attach even more value to appearance than in the Netherlands. Despite the heat, plenty of operations are performed. Proof that summer really is a fine time for a plastic surgery procedure."

It is always important to get good information and to book a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon. Our specialists are ready to guide you in making the right choice. We listen to your wishes, look at the possibilities and make sure you achieve the result that suits you.