What Researchers Did
Researchers performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 studies involving 734 patients to evaluate whether HBOT improves healing and outcomes after cosmetic surgery procedures.
What They Found
Patients who received HBOT had a pooled mean healing time of 11.30 days (95% CI: 10.46-12.14). Early patient satisfaction rates reached up to 88.2%. HBOT was most often used after abdominoplasty (36.4%) and breast surgery (27.3%), with protocols ranging from 45-120 minutes at 2.0-3.0 ATA.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadians undergoing elective cosmetic procedures such as tummy tucks or breast surgery, adding HBOT after the operation may reduce healing time and lower the risk of complications. This is particularly relevant for patients with risk factors like smoking or diabetes that can slow wound healing.
Canadian Relevance
This meta-analysis includes a Canadian-affiliated author. No OHIP-covered indication applies to cosmetic surgery contexts.
Study Limitations
The 11 included studies varied widely in HBOT protocols and surgical procedures, and standardised randomised controlled trials are still needed to establish clear guidelines.