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Breast Augmentation remains one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures today, with a 4% increase in 2022 alone. And it’s easy to understand why. According to surveys, most women who undergo this procedure say they have greater self-esteem and improved body confidence.
But for breast augmentation to be this successful, your recovery is just as important as your surgeon’s skillfulness. What you do and don’t do once you’re home after your surgery can make a huge difference in breast surgery outcomes.
The Recovery Period After Breast Augmentation
At South Shore Plastic Surgery, you will be given detailed post-op instructions upon your discharge so your recovery goes as smoothly as possible and to ensure your breast augmentation is successful. We will also schedule regular follow-up appointments to check how well you are healing.
The average recovery period following breast augmentation takes between one to six weeks. However, recovery time can vary for each person. The type, size and placement of the implant also plays a role in the duration of your recovery.
It’s important to refrain from certain activities during your recovery to prevent problems such as:
- Delayed healing
- Hematomas
- Implant displacement
- Asymmetry
- Implant rupture
- Scarring
- Infections
- Capsular contracture
- Necrosis
Things to Avoid During Your Recovery
Surveys show that 70-80% of breast implant patients are satisfied with their results and how their recovery went. When patients follow their doctor’s pre- and post-operative instructions, their chances of a successful recovery increase. One of the most important aspects of good recovery is refraining from anything that could cause problems.
Here’s a common list of post-breast augmentation advice, broken down into when you should employ them through your entire recovery period:
The First 24 Hours
Immediately after surgery, you will begin to recover from the effects of anesthesia and the surgery itself. Both things will leave you feeling sore, fatigued and groggy.
Because of this, we recommend that you avoid anything except bed rest during the first 24 hours post-op. This includes driving back home, lifting heavy objects and basic household duties. Leave these things to a close family member or a friend who will be your support as the effects of anesthesia start to wear off. Doing so will increase your safety and ensure you don’t get injured, develop an infection or other complications.
On the Second Day
On day two, your body will still need to get plenty of rest and downtime as your incisions begin to heal. However, this is also a time to introduce some physical activity to get your circulation going. While you may not feel like moving much, prolonged bed rest is associated with blood clots, constipation, weakening of muscles, weakening of bones and depression. These complications can occur as early as three days of bed rest and definitely within a week.
During this time, continue to avoid lifting anything heavy, vigorous activities, driving and working. While it’s okay to shower with mild soap and warm water, gently pat dry your incisions afterward instead of rubbing. Also, avoid hot baths, jacuzzis and swimming pools, as these can lead to infections at the incision sites.
The First Two Weeks
Most patients are back on their feet and can return to light work and physical activity by the end of weeks one and two. However, you are far from a complete recovery at this point. Your incisions are still healing and your implants haven’t “settled” yet. This is why you still need to avoid wearing bras with underwires and stick to compression garments or a sports bra.
We also recommend that you refrain from strenuous activities, including anything that involves lifting your arms above your head to avoid irritation and bleeding. If your job requires these types of activities, make sure to take time off work for at least two weeks. To help your new implants settle, avoid sleeping on your stomach and stick to back sleeping for the time being.
Because major complications tend to occur during this time, make sure to stay attentive to any signs of complications. These could include swelling, persistent or worsening pain, redness and discharge from the incision sites.
Weeks Three to Six
In the final stages of your recovery, most of the swelling, bruising and pain should be gone. You will still need to avoid regular bras and strenuous activities to ensure the implants settle correctly and that the deeper tissues heal without complications.
As the weeks progress, your breasts should start to look more natural. To ensure this happens, don’t skip your follow-up appointment with your doctor.
After Your Recovery Is Complete
Full recovery following breast augmentation takes up to two months, which depends on many factors. Once your recovery is complete, you can get back to your usual work and routine. Breast implants can last up to two decades with good care, if not a lifetime.
To keep your breast implants for longer, avoid the following:
Wrong-sized Bras
Your breasts will be slightly heavier and need good support after implants. Poor-fitting bras can cause breasts to sag and change shape over time. Choose the proper fit and wear wide-strapped bras whenever possible for good support. Many women also stick to wireless bras for up to a year following implants since it can take a while for the body to adjust to them.
Learn More About Breast Augmentation at South Shore Plastic Surgery
At South Shore Plastic Surgery in New Jersey, we are here to answer any questions you may have about getting breast augmentation and what the recovery is like. Breast augmentation surgery is one of the most life-altering experiences for many women.
We want to help you feel at ease about your decision to undergo this type of cosmetic treatment. To learn more about breast augmentation and the recovery that ensues, call Dr. Vasisht today by dialing 856- 784-2639 or book your consultation here.
