Recovery From Breast Augmentation Surgery

When it comes to discussions about breast augmentation surgery, one of the most common concerns displayed by people relates to recovery from breast augmentation surgery. As with all kinds of surgery, breast augmentation surgeries requires that the patient devote some time to recovery. However, much like other plastic surgery operations, breast augmentation surgery has improved to the point where the recovery time is minimal and post-surgery complications are typically avoided.

Following breast augmentation surgery, a patient will typically find that their breasts will be very firm, high, and swollen. It is recommended that the patient spend the first 48 hours after the surgery to rest. However, within several days, the patient will be able to return to work. The specific time that this is possible will factor on how much physical activity is required at their job.

To help speed up the recovery time, it is recommended that a patient take these steps:

• Keep ice packs applied to their chest on the day of their surgery.
• Avoid sleeping on their stomach for at least the first two weeks following the surgery and try to sleep in an upright position.
• Avoid activities that could increase pressure in your chest such as exercise during the first week of recovery.
• For patients that have obtained smooth implants, massaging them daily will help to keep them softer and keep them in their proper position. However, you should avoid massaging them in the first 24 hours and patients with textured implants should avoid the practice altogether.

After several days following the surgery, the patient will be able to remove the gauze dressings that were applied during the surgery. In some instances, a plastic surgeon will provide a surgical bra to help the patient's recovery. Within a week to 10 days, the patient will be able to have their stitches removed. However, it is important to note that the swelling in a patient's breasts will take between three and five weeks to disappear.

Although a patient is typically able to return to work within a week, it is recommended that they should avoid any activity that may lead to direct stimulation of their breasts for two to three weeks. Once the feeling of soreness has subsided, the patient is able to return to their regular activities.

The surgical scars that were obtained during the surgery are permanent. However, plastic surgeons are conscious of the aftereffects of surgical scars and therefore make incisions in areas of the patient's body where it is not normally noticeable. Additionally, surgical techniques have progressed in breast augmentation that scar sizes are typically tiny.

The recovery period of breast augmentation continues for longer than the patient is aware of. Although swelling in the breasts will disappear within a month, it often takes a year for a patient's breast implants to settle into a permanent position.