The key point
HBOT can be a useful medical support in carefully selected cases—especially when tissue blood supply is compromised. It does not replace surgery follow-up, wound care, antibiotics when indicated, or stopping nicotine.
What is HBOT?
More oxygen, delivered under controlled pressure.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing intermittent 100% medical oxygen through a mask—or from the chamber environment—at pressure higher than normal atmospheric pressure. This allows more oxygen to dissolve in the blood and body fluids and reach tissues, including areas where circulation is reduced.
How may it support healing?
More tissue oxygen
Higher dissolved oxygen can increase the amount available to damaged or poorly perfused tissue.
Swelling and inflammation
In selected conditions, improved oxygenation may help limit harmful swelling and inflammatory effects.
Defence against infection
Oxygen can support white-cell activity and may improve the effect of some antibiotics against certain bacteria.
Repair and new vessels
HBOT may support collagen, connective-tissue repair and mechanisms involved in new blood-vessel formation.
The pressure, timing and number of sessions must be planned individually by a qualified physician.
After aesthetic surgery
Where might it be considered?
Rhinoplasty and facial surgery
It may be discussed when swelling or tissue circulation is a concern; routine use remains unproven.
Mommy makeover
It may be considered when healing is delayed or an abdominoplasty skin flap appears threatened.
Breast lift or reduction
It can be considered if the nipple or skin shows signs of reduced blood supply.
Compromised tissue
Its clearest surgical role is supporting a graft or flap whose circulation is at risk.
Evidence is promising, particularly in abdominoplasty and breast surgery, but protocols vary and better trials are needed. HBOT is an adjunct—not a guarantee against complications or scars.
Limits and safety
Medical oxygen still requires medical supervision.
Ear discomfort and temporary vision changes can occur. Concentrated oxygen also increases fire risk, so treatment requires a properly equipped medical facility, trained staff and monitoring.
Do not book sessions independently.
Lung and ear health, medicines and the wound must be reviewed first. New colour change, increasing pain, discharge, fever, breathlessness or wound opening requires urgent surgical review—not a wellness appointment.
Sources and editorial context
This article is general patient information. It does not recommend HBOT routinely after cosmetic surgery or replace individual assessment.
Health Türkiye — Hyperbaric Oxygen TherapyFDA — Safe use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy devicesMortada et al. — HBOT as an adjunct in aesthetic surgery: systematic review and meta-analysis (2025)Spruijt et al. — HBOT in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery: case series