Breast augmentation procedures and recovery
Before you have breast augmentation, it’s important to know what to expect after the surgical procedure is complete. For example, full recovery usually takes two to three weeks, meaning you won’t be able to take part in all your regular daily activities until this period is over.
Below, you’ll find a quick outline of what to expect when it comes to breast augmentation, beginning with the procedure itself and continuing through the recovery period.
The Surgery
Your qualified breast surgery consultant will most likely do the procedure in an outpatient setting. Before getting started, you will be given either intravenous sedation or general anaesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable and do not feel discomfort Which type of anaesthesia you will be given will be decided on by you and your surgeon, depending on what your specific needs are.
After your anaesthesia has taken effect, your surgeon will make an incision. Usually, this is done in one of three common places to reduce the appearance of scarring. These places are above your armpit, at the base of your breast, or around the nipple area.
Then, the implant will be inserted, depending on the size and type of breast implant being used, as well as your preference. The two possible insertion sites are below the pectoral muscle, referred to as submuscular placement, or right behind your breast, known as subglandular placement.
To close the incision site, your surgeon will use either surgical tape, sutures, or adhesive, depending on what will ensure the incision is properly closed and scarring is minimized.
After the surgery is complete, you will be moved to a recovery room, where medical professionals will monitor your condition. They will also help you put on a surgical bra and gauze, which you will be required to wear to protect your breast and facilitate healing.
All total, from start to finish, breast augmentation typically lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. However, this time may be extended if you are also having a breast lift performed.
Recovery Timeline
Please note that this is a timeline for the average breast augmentation recovery. Everyone’s experience is different. Keep in mind that if you have had breast cancer or any other trauma, your recovery may be longer and the procedure may take longer than discussed above.
Despite what you may have heard, opting for larger implants doesn’t automatically result in a longer recovery period. However, you may find it more difficult to adjust to the size than someone who has opted for a more subtle size increase.
24 Hours After Surgery
In addition to seeing some swelling and bruising on the first day after your surgery, you will also likely feel some discomfort and/ or nausea. Your surgeon will have recommended a prescription or over-the-counter pain medication that you should take as ordered.
For the first 24-48 hours after the surgery, your arm movements, as well as almost all physical activity, will be restricted. It is a good idea to have plenty of tops with front buttons or zippers that can be easily removed to wear for the first couple of weeks after surgery.
You will need to abstain from using nicotine and alcohol, as well as taking blood-thinning medications. (You should have discussed this with your surgeon before your breast augmentation.)
For the first few days of your recovery, you will need plenty of help with the most basic activities, including getting dressed and moving around. You will not be able to drive.
2 to 10 Days After Surgery
Your surgeon will instruct you on when to begin displacement exercises, or at-home massage techniques. These exercises are designed to help your results look more natural and prevent possible complications, such as capsular contracture. These exercises are usually required for anyone who has undergone submuscular placement of silicone or saline implants.
As you get past the 48-hour mark, you will likely be given permission to drive, as long as you are not using any pain medicines that could impair your driving abilities. Be sure to check with your surgeon before you begin driving.
During the first 10 days after surgery, you will likely be scheduled for one or two follow-up visits to check your progress.
10 to 14 Days After Surgery
During this period, you will likely be able to begin doing light activities. With your doctor’s permission, you may begin doing light lower body exercises around the 2-week mark.
Most likely, your surgeon will recommend returning to your daily activities and going back to work. However, you will still need to avoid heavy lifting and any intense aerobic exercise.
Two to Three Weeks After Surgery
Your surgeon will encourage you to continue gradually resuming your normal daily activities during this time. If you have been told to perform displacement exercises, you will continue doing them during the period.
Keep in mind that most surgeons still restrict their patients from doing upper body exercises and weightlifting until around one month after surgery.
Four to Six Weeks After Surgery
During this time, you will likely attend one or two follow-up visits, allowing your surgeon to check your results and incision site to ensure proper healing.
Around the 4-week mark, your surgeon will likely allow you to slowly begin upper body exercises.
Around this time, you will start to see the final results of your augmentation, as your breasts settle into their natural position. You should not need pain medicine during this time.
This is also when you will transition back to wearing your normal bra and begin your regular exercise routine. You may begin running around the 6-week mark.
Several Months After Surgery
Around 10-12 weeks after your surgery, you will probably be given permission to resume all lower body exercises. Upper body exercises and heavy lifting can resume around the 12-week mark.
You scar tissue will heal and gradually fade, blending with the rest of your skin. If properly cared for, your scars should be almost invisible by the 2-year mark.
A Few Tips for After Your Breast Augmentation
To make your recovery go as easily and quickly as possible, you will need to follow all instructions given to you by your surgeon. To help you even more, here are a few additional tips designed to facilitate your recovery.
- Do not take certain medications, including blood thinners, such as Aspirin.
- Although it may be hard, avoid the temptation to remove your bandages and check out your progress.
- When your surgeon allows it, moisturize your breasts regularly to help prevent stretch marks.
- Allow your implants time to settle. In the beginning, they will be high. As they fall into their natural state, they will lower slightly.
- Do not wear tight clothing. Opt for shirts that do not require you to raise your arms to put them on.
- Get lots of rest and sleep.
- Be sure to have nausea medicine (or natural remedies) at home. Nausea is a common problem after breast augmentation
- Sleep upright with pillows positioned behind your back. Do not sleep on your side.
- If you feel a lack of sensation or hypersensitivity in your nipples, be aware this is normal and to be expected.
- Don’t be afraid to call your surgeon if you are in intense pain or notice excessive swelling or bleeding.
I have 30 years of experience working in the NHS here in the UK. Today, I focus on my private practice and specialisms in all types of breast surgery including breast augmentation. Get in touch with my practice now to enquire about surgery.
Email: enquiries@guysterne.co.uk
Telephone: +44 0121 405 0660
Mr Guy D. Sterne
MB, ChB, FRCS, MD, FRCS (Plast)
Consultant Plastic Surgeon
