Your Guide To Breast Augmentation Recovery

One of the most daunting components of breast augmentation surgery is its recovery. Many women are concerned about dealing with scarring, managing postoperative pain, and relying on others for help after the procedure. From dealing with discomfort, swelling, and infection to managing the risk of complications, recovery after breast augmentation surgery requires a wealth of knowledge in order to feel well prepared for the journey.

Breast Augmentation Before & After

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One of the top questions on your mind might be “How long will it take me to return to my normal routine?” The answer will depend on a variety of factors, including your own personal healing time, the type of implants you chose, and the location of your incisions, among other contributing variables. In general, an average of 6 weeks is required to fully recover from breast augmentation surgery. Here is a general timeline that can help you to plan ahead.

Breast Augmentation Recovery Timeline

The first day after surgery

Your breast enhancement surgery will take about 2 hours to perform. Afterward, you will be escorted to a recovery suite and your vital signs will be carefully monitored. Once it is established that you are stable, you will be released to go home.

You'll receive a set of detailed aftercare instructions as well as prescriptions for painkillers. You will also receive antibiotics to ward off infection. Side effects of anesthesia will be dizziness, soreness, and constipation.

You will definitely need a helper, not only to drive you home from your surgery but also to help you cook and care for yourself over the course of the first few days. It's imperative that you do not perform any lifting activities or do anything else that might raise your blood pressure.

The first week after surgery

The first few days after breast augmentation are the most uncomfortable. You might experience tenderness, swelling, and bruising in the treatment areas. A slight fever may develop as well, but this is no cause for alarm. It is just your body adjusting to your new breast implants.

You will need to dress your incisions with gauze and replace the dressings at least once every 24 hours. After the first two days, you can shower, but take care not to engage in any heat-related activities such as going in a hot tub, a bathtub or swimming pool. Many clients return to work after one week, as long as their jobs do not entail any strenuous physical activity.

3 - 6 weeks after surgery

After three weeks have passed, you will be in much less pain. You will be able to resume your normal daily activities while still avoiding anything that requires intense physical exertion. Scarring will now appear less prominent than before. Lower body exercise can be resumed; however, it's mandatory that you abstain from push-ups or sit-ups, as these movements can wreak havoc on your newly placed breast implants.

2 months after surgery

At this point, you can discontinue the use of your surgical bra. Scarring will now be virtually invisible to the naked eye. You will be able to engage in your regular exercise routine; however, you should still be mindful of heavy lifting or anything that could cause your implants to rupture.

8 months after surgery

Your breast implants will have settled into their final position and you will have a good idea of how they will look going forward. You will be able to exercise and work out, engaging in activities that use the chest and the upper arms. You will continue to attend regular follow-up visits with the doctor.

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Quick Tips After Breast Augmentation

Have a helper drive you home and stay by your side for the first 72 hours in case any unexpected complications arise. Most patients can resume driving in about 10 days.

Get plenty of rest. Your body will be exhausted, and proper healing cannot take place without adequate sleep.

For the first few days, make sure you stay hydrated and eat bland, nutritious foods. This will help strengthen your immune system. Choose fresh juice and healthy soups. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, sugar, fast food and processed food. Try to eat smaller portions more frequently, as this can help keep your energy up.

Avoid any activity that could potentially raise your blood pressure for the first 72 hours.

Take the pain medication that your doctor gave you. This will help ease any tightness, soreness, or discomfort in the chest. Try to avoid over-the-counter medications that may cause bleeding (Aleve, Motrin, etc.). Always take pills after eating.

Certain supplements and multivitamins may help promote your healing after surgery, but you should check with your doctor to make sure they are compatible with prescribed painkillers.

After 48 hours, it is safe to shower. However, you should still avoid pools, saunas, and hot tubs for at least 2 weeks. If you must take a bath, only soak the lower portion of your body.

Change gauze dressings once a day. Leave any steri-strips covering your incisions in place.

If you feel well enough, try to take a few gentle walks around the block in order to promote circulation and avoid blood clotting. Other than that, you should avoid any major traveling.

Wear your recovery bra at all times for the first 90 days. This will support your implants and ensure they do not migrate. Avoid wearing any bras with underwires for the first 3 months, as this may impede your wound healing.

For the first few weeks, do not lift any objects over 5 pounds, and try not to bend over too much. Have your helper do simple tasks, even though you might feel silly asking.

Anesthesia can result in constipation. Be prepared for this with laxatives provided by your doctor.

Sleep on your back only and have your head slightly elevated above your body. Never sleep on your stomach. You can rest on your side occasionally for short periods.

Prolonged sun exposure can damage your implants and lead to increased swelling at the incision sites. Make sure you apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside and stay in the shade.

The doctor can provide instructions on gently massaging your implants. Follow these directions carefully, as over-massaging your chest could rupture or disturb your implants.

Wait at least 2 weeks before engaging in sexual intercourse.

Don’t smoke for at least 2-3 months after surgery. Smoking can cause moderate to severe complications after surgery. It can lead to infections, increased discomfort, blood clots, and poor wound healing.

Attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor, and never be afraid to call and ask questions if you feel something is off.

What is the bottom line?

Breast augmentation can be among the most satisfying cosmetic procedures for patients seeking a more feminine, youthful physique. Dr. Wirth is excited to help you undergo a procedure that will enhance your figure and help you to regain confidence in how you look.

Don’t let concerns over the recovery process inhibit your choice to move forward. Instead, set aside time to familiarize yourself with the aftermath of surgery. Read through online checklists, talk with your doctor, ask questions, and speak to friends and family members about what role they can play in your healing. Breast augmentation can be a rewarding and stress-free experience if you prepare carefully in advance.

Before & After

Breast Augmentation

When Can I Enjoy My Results?

In terms of shape, size, and volume, you will see the results of your breast enlargement immediately after the procedure. As the swelling and redness associated with the incisions subside, your breasts will return to their usual color and skin tone. You will then realize the results: a larger and more voluptuous breast size. If you’re in Newport Beach or the surrounding areas, and you think breast augmentation might be the right choice for you, reach out and set up your consultation today!

What Our Patients Are Saying

Dr. Wirth is a great doctor. He answered all my questions and concerns. He has a good bedside manner which made me feel safe under his care. He followed up with me after my procedure to make sure everything was going good and made sure I was happy with my results. His staff is amazing as well. They are very caring and they helped me throughout the whole process. I recommend Dr. Wirth to anyone looking to have any cosmetic procedures done. He will make you feel amazing when he's done with you.