Breast Augmentation Recovery, Week By Week
If you’ve been considering breast augmentation, you are likely in the research phase of your journey, which may include learning about what to expect from your recovery. Breast augmentation typically requires at least six weeks of recovery, so many patients want to know what they can expect week by week as they heal. In this blog, we’ll go over what you need to know about recovery after breast augmentation and when you can get back to your regular activities.
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Day One of Recovery After Breast Augmentation Surgery
Lots of rest and limited movement are the name of the game for the first couple of days after your breast augmentation surgery. Most patients are allowed to return home after a brief recovery period, but because of the effects of anesthesia, you’ll need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours.
Your chest will be wrapped in bandages, and you’ll wear a surgical bra or compression garment to minimize swelling and support your implants. These garments also help your new breasts settle into place more smoothly.
Prepare a recovery space ahead of time, with any necessities close at hand. Water, prescriptions, and electronics (with chargers) should be easily accessible. Sleeping on your back is required after breast augmentation, and extra pillows will help keep your upper body elevated, making you more comfortable and helping to reduce swelling.
Week One of Recovery After Breast Augmentation
During the first week of breast augmentation recovery, you’ll likely experience some soreness, tightness, and pressure around your chest. Prescription or over-the-counter pain medication should help you stay comfortable, and staying hydrated can help reduce swelling. Your implants may appear higher on your chest and firmer than you expected, but this is normal.
Although rest is still key, gentle movement is encouraged. You’re encouraged to take short, slow walks around your home a few times a day to help promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Just be sure to avoid lifting, bending, or straining your chest area.
You’ll typically have your first follow-up appointment during this week. Dr. Pollack will assess your healing and give you permission to continue gentle activity. Keep wearing your compression garment and follow Dr. Pollack’s instructions closely.
Week Two of Recovery After Breast Augmentation
By the second week, many patients feel well enough to return to work (if it isn’t physically demanding) and increase their activities to light tasks around the house. You’ll notice that movement is becoming easier and your range of motion is improving, but it’s still important to avoid heavy lifting and any upper-body exercises.
Your breasts may still feel tight and somewhat firm, and your implants will still be sitting higher than expected. As your body continues to heal, your implants will gradually settle into a more natural position (called “drop and fluff”).
Weeks Three and Four of Recovery After Breast Augmentation
At the three-to-four-week mark, most of the swelling and bruising from your breast augmentation should be noticeably reduced. Your incisions will likely be healed or nearly healed, and you can begin applying silicone scar treatments to help minimize any visible scarring.
By this time, your breast implants will start to soften and take on a more natural appearance. Although you may feel more like yourself, it’s essential to keep wearing your compression bra as directed. You can typically work up to light exercise, as long as you continue to avoid anything that uses your upper body. Most exercise and strenuous activities can be resumed about six weeks after your surgery, or when Dr. Pollack clears you.
Weeks Eight Through Twelve After Breast Augmentation
By the time you reach the two- to three-month point of your breast augmentation recovery, the majority of the healing process is behind you. You should be cleared to resume all regular activities, including intense workouts and upper-body strength training. While your scars may still be visible, they will continue to fade over time.
Your implants should be settled into a more natural position, and most of the residual swelling will be gone, allowing you to finally begin seeing the full, transformative results of your breast augmentation surgery.
Learn More About Breast Augmentation in San Diego, CA
When you’re thinking about enhancing your figure with breast augmentation, understanding what your recovery may look like can help you prepare both mentally and physically. While the healing process is different for everyone, entering the procedure informed and prepared is essential to a safe and smooth recovery with stunning results. To learn more about breast augmentation and schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Larry Pollack, contact Del Mar Plastic Surgery at (858) 450-9100 or complete the online form.