Many women fear the recovery process after breast augmentation surgery Thankfully, the recovery process is usually very straightforward. While breast augmentation does require surgery under general anesthesia, it is a quick outpatient procedure. In fact, most patients experience a full recovery with a return to normal activities within four weeks.
Breast augmentation surgery offers beautiful results for women wishing to restore or enhance their breasts. Whether you want to change the size of your breasts or restore fullness due to the impact of aging, breast augmentation surgery produces the results you want.
For uncomplicated breast implant surgery, the procedure typically takes about 30 minutes. The time may extend if the patient opts to include other procedures as part of the implant surgery. Breast augmentation surgery has a low complication rate.
Implant Placement Alters Recovery
There are two options for the placement of the breast implants: under or over the pectoralis muscle. The term subglandular refers to the placement of the implant on top of the muscle. While submuscular refers to the placement of the implant under the muscle. I work with patients to discuss the pros and cons of each placement option.
For breast augmentation recovery, the post-operative pain is considerably worse with the placement of the implant under the pectoralis muscle. Also, the patient may experience more swelling for longer. Some patients describe the pain as a pulled muscle, which can require prescription pain medication.
For implants placed on top of the muscle, the patients experience some soreness. However, the procedure does not usually lead to much post-surgery pain. Over-the-counter pain medicine typically works effectively to resolve the discomfort.
With breast augmentation, the incisions are small and seldom result in any drainage through the incision after the operation. Bruising, if present, is also usually minimal.
Breast Augmentation Recovery Time
Day One
Breast augmentation is typically an outpatient procedure with the patient up shortly after surgery. While the patient needs someone to drive them home the day of the surgery due to the anesthesia, the patient has no physical driving restrictions during recovery. The patient will be sore after the surgery and may feel groggy.
Week One
The first few days after surgery are usually the most uncomfortable. However, we offer pain management solutions based on breast implant placement and patient pain level. During this week, patients should avoid lifting their arms overhead, like with washing hair, until the pain subsides. Most patients feel little to no pain after the first week.
Week Two
Typically, suture removal occurs after the first week of recovery. After suture removal, patients may exercise provided the breasts are totally at rest. For example, the patient may ride an exercise bike at this point but should not jog. In fact, avoid all strenuous or high-impact activities.
Week Four
At the end of week four, the patient may resume full athletic activity. We schedule an examination at four weeks to ensure the patient can receive clearance for advanced activity. At this point, the patient should feel back to normal and ready to enjoy the results of the breast augmentation.
What to Wear After Surgery
At the end of the surgery, we apply a surgical bra to support both the breasts and the incision dressing. Plan to wear loose-fitting clothing after the surgery for your trip home. Your chest area will feel sore and swollen. In fact, a button-up shirt or top that fits easily onto your body will work best.
Invest in a post-surgical compression bra with clasps in the front. This makes it easy to take on and off. After surgery, the breasts need to stay in place with the right support. We typically recommend wearing the compression bra for at least four to six weeks. This includes during sleeping hours.
Don’t fall into the temptation to remove the bra frequently. Your new breast implants need time to heal. This means they need constant support. Plus, you want to keep the area clean and secure. You do not want to compromise the results of the surgery.
Once the recovery period ends, you can then wear whatever you desire to enjoy the new aesthetics of your body. We will discuss the timeframe at the four-week follow-up appointment.
Recommendations for Successful Recovery
After an operation of any kind, the surgical area needs protection to heal. Otherwise, you risk compromising the results of the operation. This means following the doctor’s recommended timeline for exercise.
The incision, which is seldom more than two inches, needs to stay dry and clean. This is especially important during the first week while the sutures remain intact. An infection of the incision can occur without proper care. This is rare because most patients understand the importance of post-surgery incision care to achieve a quick and healthy recovery.
Also, patients should continue with a healthy diet and take time for rest and quality sleep. Our staff is available for questions or to address concerns about recovery. We are here to help you throughout the process.
Learn More About Your Option
Our team provides support from your first consultation until full recovery from breast augmentation surgery. We aim to achieve the best aesthetic results while prioritizing your overall health. We work with each patient to develop a customized breast surgery plan, including a recovery plan based on your specific procedure and health.
If you want to achieve the body of your dreams through breast augmentation surgery, work with a cosmetic surgeon you can trust. I over 30 years of experience producing beautiful and lasting results for patients.
To learn more details about breast implants or other breast augmentation, download our free Breast Augmentation Guide. The guide provides additional information to answer your questions and guide you in the decision for breast augmentation surgery.
