Las Vegas receives more annual sunshine than almost any other major city in the United States—over 300 days per year. Combined with summer temperatures that regularly exceed 110°F, the Las Vegas summer environment is one of the most UV-intense in the country. For patients who have had cosmetic surgery—whether a tummy tuck, BBL, breast augmentation, or facelift—summer sun protection is not optional. It is one of the most important things you can do to protect your results. Dr. Bryson Richards at Richards Cosmetic Surgery helps his patients understand exactly what is at stake.
Why Sun Matters After Cosmetic Surgery
Every surgical procedure leaves some form of scar—whether it is a fine, well-placed line from a tummy tuck incision, the small crease of a breast augmentation scar, or the liposuction entry sites from a BBL. These scars are especially vulnerable to UV damage during the healing phase because:
- Scar tissue does not tan the way normal skin does—it tends to darken unevenly under UV exposure
- Hyperpigmentation (darkening) of a scar can be permanent if it occurs during the early healing phase
- Sunburn on healing tissue is more painful and more damaging than on normal skin
- UV exposure can also contribute to prolonged redness and irritation in the scar
How Long Do Scars Need Sun Protection?
Most plastic surgeons recommend protecting surgical scars from direct sun exposure for a minimum of twelve months following surgery. This does not mean patients must stay indoors for a year—it means that whenever scars might be exposed to sunlight, protection must be in place.
Protecting Different Types of Scars This Summer
Tummy Tuck and Body Lift Scars
The tummy tuck incision sits low on the abdomen, typically within or at the bikini line. Most swimwear covers this scar adequately, but thong-style bottoms or very low-rise cuts may expose it. Apply SPF 50+ directly to the scar when wearing any swimwear that might expose it, or choose a slightly higher-waisted bottom for the first year.
BBL Donor Site Scars
Liposuction entry sites are small—typically just a few millimeters—but they are real incisions that leave small scars. These are often located on the flanks, abdomen, or lower back, where they may be exposed during swimming or sunbathing. Apply SPF to these areas whenever they might be in the sun.
Breast Augmentation Incisions
Most breast augmentation incisions are in the inframammary fold (under the breast) or around the areola, where they are largely covered by swimwear. However, if your swimsuit design might expose these areas, apply SPF or wear a more supportive top.
Practical Sun Protection Tips for Las Vegas Summer
- Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ on any areas with healing incisions—reapply every two hours when outdoors
- Seek shade between 10am and 4pm, when UV index is highest
- Wear UPF-rated clothing for prolonged outdoor exposure
- Avoid direct sun on compression garments if they cover incision areas—the fabric itself offers some protection
- Stay hydrated: dehydration impairs healing and is a real risk in Las Vegas summer heat
Silicone Scar Sheets: A Summer Must-Have
Silicone scar sheets or silicone gel, applied daily, are the most evidence-supported topical intervention for improving scar quality. They are particularly valuable during summer because they also provide a physical barrier between the scar and UV exposure. Dr. Richards recommends specific scar care products during the post-operative period and can advise on which options are best suited to summer use.
Dr. Richards provides cosmetic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Henderson, Summerlin, and surrounding Nevada communities. For post-operative care guidance or to schedule a procedure before summer ends, contact Richards Cosmetic Surgery today.
Contact Las Vegas Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Richards to Schedule a Consultation
If you would like more information on cosmetic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada plastic surgeon, Dr. Bryson Richards please contact us at 702.870.7070
Taking new patients from Las Vegas, Bullhead City, Laughlin, Pahrump, Mesquite NV and surrounding areas.