After researching for months, even years, you’ve decided to get breast augmentation surgery. Congratulations! You’ve entered an exciting phase of your journey, which may include scheduling consultations, choosing a plastic surgeon, and selecting the size of your breast implants. It’s also when patients often start asking questions about breast augmentation recovery.
Even though recovering from breast augmentation usually goes quite smoothly, it’s helpful to know what to expect. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most common questions patients ask about recovery and offer some breast augmentation recovery tips.
Common Questions About Breast Augmentation Recovery
When can I shower after breast augmentation?
It’s important to keep your incisions dry for at least 48 hours after breast augmentation surgery. You can take a sponge bath during the first 2 days after the procedure if you take care to avoid getting the incisions wet.
Can I go out to dinner the night of my surgery?
Some of our patients read about “rapid recovery” or “24-hour” breast augmentation techniques that enable you to go out to dinner or resume other normal activities within 24 hours of the surgery. I advise allowing your body to heal properly, which includes plenty of rest during the first few days. Getting enough rest minimizes the time you need to recover. It’s essential to listen to your body and not rush the recovery process.
How long does it take for implants to settle?
It’s normal for breast implants to sit in an elevated position on your chest after breast augmentation surgery. This appearance concerns some patients, who think their breasts won’t look natural. It takes time for breast tissue and skin to relax, which allows the breast implants to “drop and fluff”—the phrase often used to describe what occurs when breast implants settle into a natural-looking position. The timing depends on a few factors, such as if the surgeon places the implants above or below the muscle, but patients typically see improvement as swelling fades. It usually takes about 6 weeks for the breasts to settle fully into a more natural position. The breasts continue to soften for another 6 weeks after that.
You can get an idea of how your results will look in these before-and-after photos from our gallery. In a previous blog post, you can also learn what to look for in breast augmentation before-and-after photos.
How long will I wear a surgical bra?
Surgical bras help elevate your breasts and relieve strain on the incisions as they heal. It’s essential that you wear your surgical bra as instructed by your surgeon. Regular bras don’t provide the support your breasts need during the recovery process. I recommend my patients wear surgical bras for the first few weeks after the surgery. You should also wait to splurge on new bras until the breasts settle. Getting a professional bra fitting is a good investment.
Is breast augmentation recovery painful?
Each patient’s tolerance for discomfort varies, and some factors may result in more pain during the recovery, such as having implants inserted behind the pectoral muscles. Prescription pain medication and muscle relaxants effectively manage the discomfort, and patients typically feel much better after only 2 to 4 days. Tightness or pressure in the breasts may persist for about a week.
What should I eat during recovery to promote healing?
It’s important to stay hydrated during the recovery process. Stock up on fruits, vegetables, and lean protein to help accelerate your recovery and reduce the risk of complications.
When can I exercise after breast augmentation?
I encourage patients to take short walks within a day or two of the procedure but to avoid vigorous exercise that elevates the heart rate for about a month. Even then, you should limit workouts to cardio equipment such as stationary bikes or elliptical machines. Wait a few more weeks before incorporating upper body exercises.
If you’re considering breast augmentation, we’re happy to answer more of your questions at your consultation. You can request a consultation using our online form or call our Sacramento office at (916) 929-1833.
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