By Dr. Gianluigi Bergamaschi Marsella, Plastic Surgeon at Aventino Medical Group, Rome
Skin quality affects surgical outcomes
The decision to undergo plastic or cosmetic surgery is often accompanied by a careful evaluation of expectations, recovery time, and desired results. However, one key factor is frequently overlooked: the condition of the skin before surgery.
“Sun-damaged skin responds poorly to surgery,” explains Dr. Gianluigi Bergamaschi Marsella. Excessive sun exposure can impair skin elasticity, reduce blood flow, and slow the healing process. Photoaging—premature aging caused by UV rays—alters the structure of collagen and elastin, making the skin less responsive and more prone to postoperative complications.
For this reason, properly preparing the skin is essential to achieve more natural and lasting aesthetic results.
What happens to sun-damaged skin?
Photo-damaged skin shows microscopic and clinical changes that directly affect how it responds to surgery. The most common signs include:
- Reduced elasticity
- Sunspots and actinic keratoses
- Chronic dehydration
- Fragile superficial capillaries
- Thinning of the dermis
All these factors compromise wound healing, increase the risk of hematomas or seromas, and may trigger abnormal reactions to sutures or tissue tension. Clinical studies published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery confirm that well-hydrated, toned, UV-free skin supports faster healing with fewer complications.
What preoperative skin treatments are recommended?
Skin preparation should begin at least 6–8 weeks before the procedure, following a personalized protocol. Here are some useful guidelines:
- Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 2–3 months before surgery
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily, even in the city
- Use topical antioxidant treatments containing vitamin C or E
- Boost hydration with hyaluronic acid or light skinboosters
- Suspend deep chemical peels or ablative treatments that may sensitize the skin
For patients with dull, dehydrated, or pigment-prone skin, a joint consultation with a plastic surgeon and a dermatologist can help develop a progressive treatment plan.
In this context, customized peels play a key role. Once tried, many patients begin taking better care of their skin more consistently. The visible improvement—healthier, firmer, and more radiant skin—often leads to compliments from others and the desire not to neglect such an important organ again. Just a few in-office treatments, guided by a trusted surgeon, can easily become part of a satisfying skincare routine.
Frequently Asked Questions: Is it really necessary to prepare the skin?
Yes. Even when the procedure targets a “hidden” area (such as the abdomen or thighs), skin health affects scarring, swelling, and local reactivity. Preparing the skin:
- Improves postoperative recovery
- Promotes finer, less visible scars
- Reduces the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Allows the surgeon to work on more elastic, better-vascularized tissues
Moreover, patients with healthy, well-nourished skin experience fewer complications (infections, delayed healing, fibrosis). Scientific literature confirms that dermal quality is an important predictive factor for aesthetic outcomes.
Conclusion
A successful cosmetic procedure also depends on skin quality. Avoiding sun exposure, deeply hydrating, and following a targeted routine in the months leading up to surgery is a smart investment in your final result. Relying on expert specialists allows for the creation of a customized, safe preoperative plan suited to your skin type and lifestyle.
And get ready… even under the sun
Planning a cosmetic procedure? Learn how to prepare your skin for the best possible result.
Plastic Surgery – Aventino Medical Group