After your breast augmentation, lift or reduction, it’s not at all unusual to feel anxious to see your results develop. However, knowing what to expect during the recovery process can help give you peace of mind that everything is healing as it should and that you should be able to see the beautiful outcome you’d hoped for.
If you’re not quite sure what to expect after breast augmentation or other breast procedures, read through these recovery tips so you know what’s normal as you recuperate.
Expect Some Tightness and Discomfort
It’s not uncommon to feel some discomfort in the first few days after breast enhancement, but you shouldn’t have severe pain. Your plastic surgeon may prescribe you with medication to help with discomfort, but many women find that over-the-counter pain medication is enough to make them more comfortable. Be sure to talk with your plastic surgeon before taking any medication, however.
You might also notice a tight feeling in your chest, especially if breast implants were part of your procedure. That’s because it can take some time for the implants to settle into place in the breast pocket. Over time, this sensation should go away and you should see your implants begin to “drop and fluff” into a softer, more natural-looking position.
Asymmetry Isn’t Uncommon
It can take 3 to 6 months to see your final new shape, so don’t be alarmed if your breasts seem to be recovering at a different rate, making them look a little asymmetrical at first. Over the next several weeks, both breasts should begin to take their final shape and appear more symmetrical.
If asymmetry is a concern for you before your breast enhancement procedure, be sure to discuss this with your plastic surgeon so that he or she can work this into your breast augmentation plan.
Sleep Propped up on Your Back at First
Many women find that sleeping on their backs slightly propped up with pillows or even in a reclining chair is the most comfortable sleeping position at first. This can also help to reduce swelling. Try to avoid sleeping on your stomach during your recovery from breast augmentation, breast reduction and/or a breast lift so that you don’t place added pressure on your chest while you’re still healing.
You’ll Need to Avoid Heavy Exercise
Most women can go back to work within 1 to 2 weeks after breast enhancement.
For the first few weeks, you’ll need to avoid heavy lifting and vigorous exercise. Work closely with your board-certified plastic surgeon to determine when you can begin reintroducing more challenging physical activities into your regular routine after breast augmentation. Although most people are able to return to work within about a week after their procedure, this will depend on how physically demanding your job is.
Follow Your Plastic Surgeon’s Guidelines for Best Results
Your plastic surgeon is going to be your go-to resource for all questions and concerns you have during your breast enhancement recovery. He or she should send you home with specific guidelines about how, when and how long to wear your special surgical bra, which exercises you can and cannot do during the first stages of recovery, what foods to eat and which ones to avoid, which medications are appropriate to take and when you can get back to your normal workout routine. Try to follow these guidelines as closely as you can to ensure a smooth recovery and beautiful, natural-looking results.
Dr. David Dellinger at Elysian Plastic Surgery in Austin is a double board-certified plastic surgeon who maintains a practice focus on body contouring surgery, breast enhancement and facial rejuvenation.
