With the right preparation and know-how, recovering from your breast lift with augmentation can be a smooth, seamless experience with minimal risk of complications. Start with these six easy breast lift recovery tips to start your body’s healing process off right and help ensure the beautiful results you’ve been hoping for.
1. Follow Your Cosmetic Surgeon’s Advice
Your cosmetic surgeon should provide you with specific recovery instructions, including how and when to wear your compression garment or surgical bra, when it’s okay to shower or bathe, if and when to change dressings and the physical activity limitations you should abide by. You’ll also want to check with your plastic surgeon before you head back to work, especially if you have a physically demanding job.
Try to follow these guidelines as closely as you can to minimize the risk of complications and speed up the recovery process after your breast lift.
2. Take Prescribed Medications
You will most likely be sent home with pain medication to help make you comfortable for the first few days. If you feel like you need pain medication, follow your cosmetic surgeon’s instructions for taking them. However, many women find that over-the-counter medication is enough to make them comfortable. If you’re going to go the OTC route, stick with Tylenol, since aspirin, ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can make bruising worse.
Some supplements and foods can also thin your blood and increase the risk of bleeding and bruising, so they should be avoided as well. These include Saint John’s wort, vitamin E, omega fatty acids, ginger, garlic and salmon. Ask your cosmetic surgeon for a complete list of medications and supplements to avoid while you recover.
3. Sleep with Your Head Propped Up
Keeping your upper body elevated while you heal after a breast lift with implants can help to reduce swelling. Some women find that sleeping in a recliner is comfortable and convenient for the first few nights. If you’re going to sleep in a bed, keep your head, neck and shoulders propped up on a few pillows.
It’s also important that you avoid sleeping on your stomach while your incisions heal. Try using a body pillow or two to help keep you from rolling over in your sleep if you tend to be a stomach- or side-sleeper.
4. Enlist Some Help
You might feel like Superwoman, but there’s no need to try to be a hero while you recover. Arrange for someone to help you with taking care of your kids, pets, household chores and yourself, at least for the first few days.
Most women return to work within 1 to 2 weeks after a breast lift with implants.
5. Stay out of the Sun
Sun exposure can make scarring more pronounced, since it’s linked to an increased risk of hyperpigmentation. So try to stay out of the sun as much as possible while recovering from cosmetic surgery. If you do have to be outside, wear sunscreen and keep your incisions covered. And check with your cosmetic surgeon before swimming or going in a hot tub. Schedule your breast enhancement for the fall or winter to enjoy your results by summer.
6. Eat Healthy and Drink Plenty of Water
Don’t discount the importance of good old-fashioned healthy eating and hydration. Fuel your body with the nutrients it needs for a speedy, efficient recovery, like fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
Dr. Joseph J. Castellano is a native Floridian who grew up in the Tampa Bay area. During medical school and his 5 years of training in General Surgery, Dr. Castellano developed a strong interest in Cosmetic Surgery. He followed his residency training with an elective year of specialized training with the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. From 2010-2011, he completed a fellowship in Indiana focused entirely of cosmetic surgery of the face and body. During his fellowship, he received specialized training in facial rejuvenation, breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, and body contouring. Dr. Castellano received his board certification from the American College of Surgeons in 2010.
Dr. Castellano focuses on breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, liposuction, facelift, and eyelid rejuvenation. Additionally, he operates on numerous skin cancers, scar revisions, spider veins, and specializes in the management of aging skin with chemical peels and laser resurfacing.
Request a consultation to meet with Dr. Castellano and learn more about all his practice has to offer.
