Breast Augmentation Recovery
If you are considering breast augmentation, you may need up to a week away from work, followed by several weeks of minimized physical strain. Dr. Benjamin Boudreaux and Dr. Jeffrey Claiborne at Northshore Plastic Surgery in New Orleans, LA, invite you to learn more about what to expect during breast augmentation recovery. As our patient, you can expect to be informed every step of the way, from your first consultation until you have completely healed.
Factors Affecting Recovery
The amount of time your breast augmentation recovery requires will depend on:
- Your natural ability to heal. Everyone heals at a different rate, so each recovery timeline is unique.
- The implant size. A larger implant can stretch tissue, which can contribute to a longer recovery time.
- Breast implant placement. If your implant was placed below the pectoral muscle, you can expect more discomfort and a longer recovery period.
The First Week after Surgery
Patients are advised to rest for the first 24 to 48 hours after their procedure. During this time, you can expect to experience some discomfort at the treatment area, nipple sensitivity, bruising, and inflammation. Patients should plan on having plenty of assistance because strain can compromise healing during this time.
To control swelling and discomfort, patients can apply an ice pack to the treatment area in 15-minute intervals. You may be prescribed pain management medication, although some patients find that over-the-counter medications are sufficient.
You may wear an elastic compression strap or other support garments for the first two or three days. This device works to reduce the side effects of surgery, expedite recovery time, and decrease the risk of complications.
By the end of the first week, most patients will be able to return to work and resume nonstrenuous daily tasks.
Patient education matters. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare for breast augmentation recovery can help you to experience the very best results.
Two to Three Weeks After Surgery
In the second to third week, side effects should be substantially improved. Patients will feel their energy returning, and they can take on more tasks, although strenuous activity should still be kept to a minimum. Any activity that raises the heart rate should be avoided. If your surgery involved submuscular implant placement, you must avoid any action that strains the pectoral muscles.
Weeks Four through Six
After about a month, patients can typically resume light exercise. Most are able to their full routine, including all exercise, at six weeks.
The Months after Surgery
Residual swelling will subside completely in the months after surgery. It is also around this time that surgical scarring will fade, becoming less noticeable over time. You can help your scars to remain discreet by taking care to avoid sun exposure.
Contact Us Today
Patient education matters. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare for breast augmentation recovery can help you to experience the very best results. Dr. Boudreaux, Dr. Claiborne and their caring staff are here to answer all of your questions and help you achieve the outstanding results you deserve. Contact us online or give us a call at (985) 237-6050 to schedule a consultation.
