Jul 23rd, 2019

Five Essential Breast Augmentation Recovery Tips

Breast augmentation surgery is one of the most performed types of plastic surgery. This type of surgery is used to correct irregularities or asymmetry problems, as well as to enhance the look and appearance of your body. This procedure is performed as outpatient surgery at Grossman Plastic Surgery.

Recovery can range from two to six weeks, depending on your overall health and wellbeing. It is important to plan ahead using these breast augmentation recovery tips:

 

1. Post-op pain management.

You will experience some pain and discomfort following surgery. This is normal. It is a good idea to talk to your surgeon ahead of time about what pain management options are available. You will want to fill any prescriptions before your surgery.

Discomfort after surgery varies with each patient. While some women may only need over-the-counter pain relief medication, a majority will use a prescribed pain medication during their recovery. For this reason, a prescription pain reliever may be good to have available, should you need it.

 

2. Ask for help from family and friends.

You will not be able to jump right back in your normal daily routines. You have to avoid all heavy lifting for at least six weeks. You should not drive if you do use the prescription pain relievers.

It is beneficial to get help with taking care of your children, shopping, and other household chores until you fully recover. Even if you do not have children, having a relative or a close friend visit you for the first three or four days after your surgery can be beneficial.

 

3. Prepare meals ahead of time.

The day before your surgery, you will want to prepare your meals for the next several days. Having foods you can quickly heat up or eat right out of the refrigerator will make meal times easier.

Initially following surgery, you may not feel hungry or can feel nauseous. Eat light, soft foods that are gentle on your stomach for the first 24 hours. You will also want to drink plenty of water every day.

 

4. Use your post-op recovery time to sleep and rest.

Part of your breast augmentation recovery will be spent relaxing, resting, and sleeping. This is a good time to binge-watch your favorite programs, read books and magazines, or pursue other activities you can do while sitting down.

Before surgery, take the time to decide where you want to spend your recovery time. Get extra pillows you can use to help increase your comfort. Dr. Grossman recommends that his patients sleep in an upright position to minimize swelling. Sleeping on your back is highly suggested and best to avoid sleeping on side and stomach.

Even though your surgeon will recommend you get up and walk at set intervals, avoid pushing yourself too hard and overdoing it. No upper body exercise, to avoid displacing the implants during healing.

 

5. Follow all post-op breast augmentation recovery instructions.

Your surgeon will have given you a list of instructions to follow after your surgery. This could include wearing compression bandages and compression garments until healed. This is to help secure the desired position of the breast during early healing and malleable period, and to also reduce swelling.

You may also have to gently massage your breasts to soften the internal membrane your body develops around the breast. It’s to ensure the implant isn’t squeezed upon or tight.

Take the time to fully review these instructions before your surgery and ask your surgeon any questions you may have.

Taking the time to plan and prepare before your surgery makes it easier for you to recover, rest, and enjoy your new breasts. For further information about breast augmentation surgery or other types of plastic surgery, please feel free to contact our plastic surgeon near Westlake Village at Grossman Plastic Surgery by calling 818-981-2050!