Getting Ready for a Big Event? Here’s When to Book a Cosmetic Procedure

If you’re looking forward to a big event coming up, such as a wedding, reunion, or bucket list trip-of-a-lifetime, it could be a great reason to get that cosmetic procedure you’ve been pondering! 

Of course, boosting your confidence and feeling your best takes time, so you’ll need to plan ahead. Here’s your guide to timelines for some popular procedures so you can schedule them with optimal time for recovery and amazing results prior to your big event. 

Timelines for Surgical Services

As you would expect, you’ll need to plan further ahead for a surgery than you would for a non-surgical, in-office procedure. Check out the timelines below to see how these surgeries can fit into your calendar.

Breast Augmentation 

• When to get it: About 6 weeks prior to an important event.
• Recovery time: Most bruising usually fades within 7-10 days, but some mild bruising may last up to a month. 
• Peak results: You can expect to see best results around 3 to 4 weeks later, when most of the swelling resolves and your breasts start to get softer and more natural-looking.

Learn more about breast augmentation here. 

Face Lift (aka Rhytidectomy)

• When to get it: Ideally, 6 months before your big event. Minimum: at least 6 weeks prior.
• Recovery time: Most swelling should subside after about 2 weeks, but minor swelling may persist for another 2 weeks. After one month, bruising should no longer be noticeable. 
• Peak results:  Best results can be seen after about 6 months.

Learn more about a face lift here. 

Tummy Tuck (aka Abdominoplasty)

• When to get it: At least 6 weeks before an important event. 
• Recovery time: Typically, you can return to light activities within 2 weeks. However, you’ll need to wait a full 6 weeks before returning to strenuous activities. Swelling and bruising may last for about 6 weeks, during which time you’ll also need to wear a compression garment for optimal healing. 
• Peak results: Expect best results right around the 6-week mark.

Learn more about a tummy tuck here. 

Timelines for Non-Surgical Cosmetic Services

Non-surgical procedures can often be performed closer to your big event. Since these tend to be shorter-term treatments, we’ve included estimates of how long results from each procedure typically last. That way, you can find your scheduling sweet spot – not too early, not too late. 

Botox

• When to get it: 2-4 weeks prior to an important event. 
• Recovery time: Tight sensations or feelings of heaviness generally subside in 1-2 weeks.
• Peak results: You will start to see the best results around the 2-week mark. 
• How long results last: Typically between 3-4 months, but can last up to 6-9 months with the right skincare. 

Learn more about injectables and fillers here. 

Filler

• When to get it: About 4 weeks prior to an important event.
• Recovery time: Swelling is usually the worst during the first 24-48 hours but mostly resolves within 2 weeks.
• Peak results: Expect optimal results around 2 weeks after treatment.
• How long results last: Typically about 6 months, but results may vary based on several factors.

Learn more about injectables and fillers here. 

Chemical Peel*

• When to get it: About 2-3 weeks prior to an important event.
• Recovery time: Some redness and irritation is normal immediately afterward, and healing can take up to a week. Some redness may persist longer. You can apply makeup as soon as the next day.
• Peak results: Expect optimal results around 2 weeks after treatment.
• How long results last: The timeline for a chemical peel depends on the intensity you want, as the procedure can range from a light to deep peel. On average, results can last 1-2 months for light peels, 6-12 months for medium peels, and up to several years for deep peels. Regular skincare and sun protection help extend results.

Learn more about a chemical peel here. 

Personalized Guidance from The Lucas Center

As you plan for big events, hopefully these timelines give you a general idea of when to book your cosmetic procedures. However, since every person’s needs and schedule are different, the best way to ensure readiness is by consulting with a trusted plastic surgery practice like The Lucas Center. In your initial consultation, Dr. Lucas will learn about your goals, health, and unique needs to create a personalized plan and schedule just for you.
Schedule your consultation or give us a call at (865) 218-6210 today to start your journey toward more confidence during important moments in life.