During your breast augmentation recovery, it is important to follow the post-surgical care instructions given by your plastic surgeon. This will ensure proper healing and avoid complications.
The first week after surgery can be difficult for patients, but the pain and discomfort should begin to subside. At this point, many women can return to work or their normal routine.
The day of surgery
Most breast augmentation surgeries involve general anesthesia, so you will be asleep during the procedure. After surgery, you will be transferred to a recovery room where medical professionals will monitor you.
Swelling and bruising should begin to subside within a few days. This is an important time to follow your surgeon’s guidelines for activity and lifting restrictions.
The first week
The first week of recovery after breast augmentation surgery is your body’s chance to rest and heal. That is why it is important to take care of yourself and follow your surgeon’s instructions.
Pain, swelling and tightness are all common during the first week of recovery. Your surgeon will give you plenty of pain medication to keep you comfortable, but it is best to use it sparingly and avoid activities that make the pain worse.
The second week
The second week after breast augmentation is generally a time when patients feel more comfortable with their new breasts. This is because the implants have settled and the skin and soft tissue have stretched.
In a small percentage of women, however, the capsule that forms around the implant can contract, making the breast feel firmer than it should. This may cause the breast to become tender and may require a follow-up visit with your cosmetic surgeon.
The third week
The third week after breast augmentation is the time that implants settle and your skin and soft tissue stretch. These processes will help to achieve the best breast shape possible.
This is also the time that you should start to see more improvement in asymmetry, but this is still quite early on. If asymmetry is a concern, it is important to talk to your surgeon about how to correct this.
The fourth week
The fourth week is the time when implants have settled into their new place in the breast and soft tissue has started to stretch. It is also the time when most patients are able to return to work and light activity.
One of the most common complications after surgery is capsular contracture, or thick scar tissue around the implant. This can result in a lump or a change in shape.
The fifth week
During the fifth week, your breasts should begin to feel normal. Swelling and bruising will have reduced, but it may take some time for the implants to settle in place and feel comfortable.
Some patients experience oversensitivity to the implants, but this usually resolves within a few months. Some women can also develop capsular contracture, a scar that can squeeze the implant, making it feel firmer than expected. This condition is very rare, occurring in less than 1 in 1000 breast augmentations.
The sixth week
In the sixth week, most breast augmentation patients are fully recovered and can return to work and light exercise. However, some people experience complications that may need to be addressed by a doctor.
The most common complication is capsular contracture, which occurs in around 1.9% to 2.3% of all breast augmentation patients. It causes a hardening of the breast tissue, which looks unnatural and can cause pain.
The seventh week
As you reach the seventh week of your breast augmentation recovery, you should notice that swelling and bruising are starting to lessen. You should also start to feel more like yourself.
This is a normal part of the healing process. It’s important to listen to your body and rest, as well as drink plenty of fluids and follow your doctor’s guidelines.
The eighth week
Generally, you should start feeling comfortable in your own skin and your breasts are beginning to settle. However, there are still some limitations for a week or so after your surgery.
You should avoid lifting and other activities that could dislodge your implants or put too much pressure on the incisions. These restrictions help your body heal properly.
The ninth week
At this point, your implants should be fully settled and you can expect to see a softer, more natural breast shape. However, if you are experiencing persistent swelling or fluid accumulation, you should schedule a follow-up visit to assess the progress of your recovery.
While you are still recovering, avoid wearing tight-fitting bras that can put pressure on your new implants or interfere with their final position. Similarly, it’s important to avoid swimming until your incisions have healed.