skip to main content

Blog

How Long Is The Recovery Time After Breast Augmentation?

As breast surgeons, we can tell you that augmentation is a common procedure across the country, but it is still considered surgery. As with any surgery, there will be incisions, bleeding, and some degree of pain and discomfort. There are several options for how the surgery is performed. This means there are various factors that will determine how long your recovery time is going to take.

Immediately after surgery

You will be taken to a recovery area where you will be monitored for about an hour or so. Your breasts will be bandaged, and there will be support bands or a special support bra placed on you to reduce swelling. After you have been monitored for about an hour, if all looks well, you will be allowed to go home.

Your doctor will give you specific instructions. Different situations require different maintenance, and you must follow your doctor’s orders precisely. You will be given instructions on cleaning and bandaging your breasts. You will be given prescriptions to take home. This could include antibiotics to prevent infection and something to control any pain you may have. In most cases, you will be instructed to wear your support bra around the clock until you return for your follow-up visit. Until your doctor releases you to do so, you will be instructed to limit activity.

Note: A good surgery can go wrong from a bad recovery. Follow instructions from your doctor.

Expected stages of recovery

  • Arrange for full-time assistance for 2-3 days.
  • Arrange for primary child care for 4-5 days.
  • At around day 5, you can start low impact cardio if you keep your pulse rate below 100.
  • If you work in an office job or a job where you are not on your feet all day, you can resume your normal work activity after about one week.
    • (Note: If your implants were placed over the muscles, your recovery time will be shorter. You could return to an office job in 3-4 days.)
  • Low impact cardio exercise is allowed after around 2 weeks.
  • No high-impact exercise like jogging, jumping, or activities that require arm swinging like tennis or golf and no lifting more than 15-20 pounds for 6-weeks. If you must lift your baby, keep your elbows close to your chest.
  • No sweeping motions (sweeping, vacuuming, raking, etc.) for at least 6-8 weeks.

Tips

  • Eat light meals consisting of healthy foods including fruits and veggies.
  • Always drink plenty of water.
  • Make sure you have some loose-fitting tops that do not require you to raise your arms to put on.
  • Sleep on your back, using pillows to help prop you up for the first 6-weeks after surgery. This helps you when you have to get out of bed. Do not sleep on your side or stomach during that period.
  • Avoid trying to look at your scars. You could cause them to re-open.
  • If you have questions, do not assume or look it up on the internet, contact your doctor.

Ready to Get Started?

=