Your Guide to Breast Augmentation Recovery

Breast augmentation is a highly popular procedure that leaves thousands of patients satisfied each year. However, many patients understandably have many questions and concerns about the recovery process. This blog provides a breast augmentation recovery timeline and surgery preparation tips to help guide you as you prepare for your breast augmentation or to give you ideas for questions to ask at your consultation appointment.

What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breasts are lauded by many as a symbol of femininity. Some women desire their curves to have more amplitude. A breast augmentation, often called a boob job, is a cosmetic procedure designed to increase the size of the breasts with breast implants. It’s one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures, and the number of procedures increases yearly.

A breast augmentation procedure is highly customizable, from the implant material (silicone vs. saline) and shape, to the incision placement and even where the implant is placed in the body (above or below the pectoral muscle).

These specifics are good to know so you can discuss them thoroughly with your surgeon during a consultation. Still, the recovery process for all the different options is similar across the board.

How Painful is Breast Augmentation Recovery?

Initially, breast augmentation recovery is uncomfortable, but most patients find it quite manageable. After the first few days post-surgery, many patients find they can control any pain easily with simple over-the-counter medications. Following your surgeon’s instructions, such as wearing your post-op compression bra, helps with pain and swelling.

How to Prepare for Breast Augmentation Recovery

Your surgeon will provide more details about breast augmentation preparation and recovery. However, the tips below will help you get an idea of what to expect so you can make the necessary preparations at home in advance.

• Create a support system: Especially for the first few days after recovery, you will need someone to help you with everything, from meal prep to childcare. Make arrangements with a few people ahead of time and have backups.
• Create a recovery space: You will need to sleep with your upper body slightly elevated, so invest in the right pillows or practice sleeping in a recliner. Rest is one of the most important parts of recovery, so plan to ensure you get your best rest.
• Create a recovery kit: Collect everything you need, including ice packs, prescription medications, OTC medications for pain and swelling, grocery lists and frozen meals, and comfy clothing (like button-downs or zip-ups, as you won’t want to pull shirts over your head for a while).
• Gather your entertainment: Have a list of books, TV shows, or movies you’ve been meaning to catch up on. Get your devices, chargers, TV remote, and batteries ready to go.
• Remember post-op instructions: You won’t be able to submerge your upper body underwater, so be ready to shower with a handheld sprayer. You can’t strain, so make sure you won’t need to lift anything more than 10 pounds. You’ll have to drink plenty of water, so have a plan set up for easy access. Ask for your surgeon’s post-op instructions and think ahead to make things as smooth for yourself as possible.

Breast Augmentation Recovery Week by Week

On average, breast augmentation recovery takes about six to eight weeks. Here’s a sample outline of what to expect week by week:

Week One

The first three to four days are the most difficult for many people. You will probably experience all of the following: bruising, swelling, soreness, square-shaped breasts, tightness, itching, and minor bleeding. Call your surgeon if you are concerned or alarmed about any symptoms.

At this point, your main priority is to rest. Do not strain yourself, especially this week. However, in addition to rest and sleep, light walking is recommended to improve circulation and prevent blood clots. Several short walks around the room per day are a good idea. When you rest or sleep, be sure to do so in a gently inclined position with ample pillows to support and cradle your upper body. 

Also, devote gentle care to your incisions and follow your surgeon’s instructions for optimal healing. If you want to try any scar-reducing ointments, make sure these are approved ahead of time. 

Week Two

Depending on the physical demands of your job, you may be able to return to work this week. You can also start sleeping on your back, but your stomach or side may still be uncomfortable.

Expect slight improvements daily in swelling, tightness, and soreness. Everyone is different, though, so listen to your body and its needs for sleep, nutrition, water, and a calm mindset.

Week Three

You may be able to do more vigorous exercise this week, but only if your surgeon clears you.

Your breasts should start to “drop” around this time. Your nipples may still be positioned lower on the breast mound, but tightness and bruising should begin to dissipate. Your surgeon may also recommend massages or a bandeau strap. Give your breasts time to round out.

Weeks Four to Five

At around one month after breast augmentation, you can expect to be back to your regular exercise routine and normal activities at home.

There will be much less swelling, and your breasts should appear more rounded and natural-looking. There may still be some asymmetry and one breast may appear lower than the other. You may be able to wear whatever bra you want as long as your surgeon gives you the go-ahead and it doesn’t cause pain.

Weeks Six to Eight

Your breasts will continue to drop into place; most swelling will be gone. Your breasts will settle into a more natural and symmetrical appearance. It can take three to six months for your breasts to settle fully. 

Remember, swelling is the side effect that tends to persist the most, so don’t be alarmed if your breasts are still a little swollen and tender at this point.

Continue to care for your breasts: keep them out of the sun, use sunscreen, and use scar therapy treatments. Most patients will see the full results of their breast augmentation after six months, but it may take up to a year.

Breast Augmentation Recovery Tips

• Follow all your surgeon’s directions. If you don’t, you could experience complications.
• Use your compression bra.
• Rest and sleep a lot.
• Stay hydrated and eat nutrient-dense foods.
• If you’re a smoker, wait a few weeks before smoking again. Ask your surgeon for an exact timeline. Smoking during recovery can lead to tissue necrosis or other healing issues.

Interested in Breast Augmentation in Houston, TX?

Want to learn more about whether breast augmentation is the right procedure for you? Do you have concerns about breast augmentation recovery? Why not ask a plastic surgeon directly to get personalized answers?

At EB Plastic Surgery, we’d love to help guide you toward your dream aesthetic. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Bedolla today using our online contact form, or call (281) 990-8487. Hope to see you soon!