When patients undergo a cosmetic surgery procedure, whether it be facial plastic surgery to eliminate wrinkles and tighten the skin, or body contouring treatment to eliminate unwanted fat, they will require time for recovery. Our patients need to take time off work for their plastic surgery recovery period. The staff at our Gainesville, FL practice advise patients on how much time they should take off work, and help them to plan ahead so they know what to expect during the recovery period.
How Much Time Will I Need to Take Off?
It is important to determine how much time you will need off from work following plastic surgery. This answer is largely dependent on what type of procedure is being performed. While some patients may require just a week of recovery before returning to work, others may require several weeks off.
Keep in mind that each recovery period is dependent on the individual and the procedure. Every patient recovers at his or her own pace. It is a good idea to discuss your procedure with Dr. Greg Gaines, who can recommend a minimum amount of time that should be taken for rest and recovery.
As your recovery progresses, you should revisit the consideration of time off. It is never a good idea to go back to work before the body feels ready, as this can impede recovery and increase the risk of surgical complications. Many patients opt to return to work part-time after their initial period of recovery, as this allows them to ease back into their regular routine.
Can I Take Sick Leave?
Many patients are unsure whether they can take sick leave following plastic surgery, or if they will need to use personal or vacation time. In many cases, patients take vacation time for their recovery. With vacation time, patients don’t need to discuss the reason for their time off with their employer. Vacation time also allows patients to be paid for the duration of their recovery.
If surgery requires a particularly long leave of absence, employees may need to take some unpaid leave (though this is rare). It is a good idea to plan these details prior to the surgical procedure so that the mind and body can focus on resting once treatment is complete.
Contact Us
Plastic surgery can help you address areas of aesthetic concern and enhance your natural beauty. If you would like to learn more about the wide range of cosmetic procedures offered at Gaines Plastic Surgery, contact us at your earliest convenience. Dr. Greg Gaines looks forward to meeting you!