Breast augmentation continues to be one of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures in North America. Over 190,000 people underwent the procedure in 2020 and did so for a variety of reasons. As well as improving self-confidence, breast augmentation can help with asymmetry in appearance, reshaping after significant weight loss, and correcting uneven breasts after other surgical procedures.
There are plenty of existing resources that can help inform a person about breast augmentation pre-surgery. However, once you go through the process, what can you do to ensure you get the results you want? Below are some top tips to aid your breast augmentation recovery.
Get Plenty of Rest
This may sound obvious but rest is key. During breast augmentation surgery, the surrounding tissues and muscles suffer from heavy trauma. As a result, you need rest to make a proper recovery and sleep is a critical part of this.
Following your breast augmentation, it is recommended you rest and sleep on your back. It also helps to be in a slightly reclined position so using one or two pillows propped behind your back can help with recovery. Resting in this position helps reduce swelling, improves circulation, and keeps breasts in a natural position as they heal.
Before your surgery, make sure you have a quiet room set aside that also has a comfortable bed to rest in. This will enable you to return home and slip straight into relaxation mode post-surgery and ensure you are comfortable as you begin the recovery process.
Post-Surgery Movement and Motion
You will experience sore, tight muscles after surgery and simple movements will be challenging. Basic stretches or bending over will be difficult but, as you begin to recover, this range of movement will start to come back. It is important not to over-exert yourself with movements that involve your chest such as pushing, pulling, or lifting as these could cause damage to the surgery area.
Your surgical team will discuss the details of your range of motion and explain what you can and can’t do. However, it is recommended you do some gentle activity and stretching to aid the recovery process. Basic tasks that involve reaching above your head, brushing your hair, and grabbing light items from a top shelf are safe to complete. There are also suggested exercises that people can attempt post-surgery to help the recovery process.
Wear Recovery Bras
A recovery bra is used to stabilize your breast implants, prevent unnecessary swelling, and increase blood circulation. Experts advise that a recovery bra should be worn for at least six weeks following breast augmentation surgery as the support they provide is key to successful recovery and results.
Finding a recovery bra that provides both support and comfort is critical as it is something you will have to wear the majority of the time following surgery. There are various different types of compression garments available that aid the recovery process. Do some research prior to your surgery to find out what other people have used and learn about their experiences post-surgery. This will help you decide the best option for you.
Final Thoughts
Breast augmentation is a significant surgical procedure and there are many factors to consider both in preparation for the surgery and once the surgery is complete. Make sure to think through each step of your surgical journey to ensure you are prepared for a successful breast augmentation and recovery.
Patrick is a freelance writer and interested in providing advice for those seeking surgical procedures. His own past surgical experiences have informed his writing and he is passionate about sharing the best advice for people looking to undergo their own procedures.
