For many of my patients, recovery time is an important factor considered when deciding to undergo breast augmentation surgery. Just as there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to plastic surgery procedures, the same can be said about recovery for breast augmentation. Your incision type, age, and other factors are unique and should always be considered. Following your surgery, it’s important that you take good care of yourself and ensure that your body fully heals. Below I have shared some insight on what to expect during your recovery.
For the first few days…
- Following your surgery, minimal bandage will be placed on the breasts and you will wear a support bra in order to minimize swelling and support the breasts as they heal post-surgery.
- Because of the special techniques and medications used during surgery and the breast surgery recovery kit used for post-op, the majority of patients feel minimal to zero discomfort. For those patients with minor discomfort, Tylenol® or a mild pain killer will be prescribed.
- Although uncommon, nausea may sometimes occur when taking medications on an empty stomach. It is important to not take prescribed medications on an empty stomach and to drink plenty of water after receiving anesthesia.
- Sleeping may be uncomfortable for some after any breast surgery. I recommend placing extra pillows behind your head, neck, and underneath your arms and legs.
- Meet with me for a couple follow-up appointments to make sure you’re healing properly.
- Most patients can return to work within 2-5 days.
For the first few weeks…
- Your breasts may remain swollen for a month or longer.
- Mild bruising around the breast and chest area is to be expected, but will subside over time.
- During the first week of recovery, I always tell my patients to limit physical activity. You shouldn’t lift heavy objects and should refrain from straining your arms and chest in general to allow your body to properly heal. I recommend that patients wait 2 weeks before engaging in light physical activity and 4 to 6 weeks before returning to your regular workout routine. Depending on the incision type, and aftercare, breast augmentation surgery results can be long-lasting, but can also be diminished if you experience a dramatic increase in weight which can cause the skin to stretch.
Before you’re sent home, we will thoroughly discuss all post-operative instructions and I will answer any questions that you may have during your initial consultation to make sure you know what to expect once your procedure date arrives. If you are interested in breast augmentation or other cosmetic procedures I perform, contact Southern Plastic Surgery, P.C. today to schedule your consultation. For the most up-to-date plastic surgery news and specials be sure to connect with me, Dr. David Whiteman, on Facebook, Twitter and Google+.