WHAT IS THE RECOVERY PERIOD AFTER A BREAST AUGMENTATION?

Breast augmentation surgery, like any other cosmetic surgery procedure, requires a period of recovery. During this period of rest, the patient will have to follow very precise rules and avoid certain gestures, not to have any complication and to support the healing process. Here is everything you need to know about the recovery phase after you leave the clinic: the type of pain you will experience, how to return to work and to sports, as well as the dos and don’ts.

Breast Augmentation Healing Timeline

The healing process after breast augmentation is gradual and varies from person to person, but it generally follows a predictable pattern. In the first few days, you can expect swelling and bruising, along with moderate pain that can be managed with prescribed pain medication. After about a week, most patients are able to return to light activities, although the swelling may persist for several weeks. Over the next few months, the breasts will gradually settle into their final position, and any remaining discomfort should subside. Full recovery, including the fading of scars, typically takes several months, during which time it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions closely to ensure optimal results.

When can you lift your arms after breast augmentation?

After breast augmentation, it’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s guidelines regarding arm movements to ensure proper healing. Typically, patients are advised to avoid lifting their arms above shoulder level for the first one to two weeks post-surgery. This restriction helps minimize strain on the chest muscles and allows the implants to settle correctly. Around the two-week mark, many patients can begin gently raising their arms, but heavy lifting or strenuous activities should still be avoided for at least four to six weeks. Every individual’s recovery timeline may vary, so it’s essential to consult with your surgeon before resuming any activities that involve lifting or reaching.

Is there post-operative pain and discomfort experienced by the patient?

The pain will be felt mostly during the first three or four days after the procedure. Then, it will gradually diminish and finally disappear. The surgeon will prescribe you painkillers, which will help you to relieve the painful sensations, as well as muscle relaxants that will allow you to reduce the sensations of cramps and muscle pain. During the first few days after breast augmentation, you may have some difficulty sleeping properly, as you will only be able to lie on your back. You should also avoid any kind of sudden movement and not lift heavy objects. This can cause a slowing down of the healing process or even bleeding.

What kind of clothes should I wear after my breast augmentation?

After breast augmentation, you will need to wear a post-surgical support bra. This type of bra is designed specifically for this type of situation and will help you recover well during the recovery phase. It is highly recommended that you wear this bra to keep your breasts firm but also to protect them during the breast implant recovery period. The post-operative support bra has many uses: it allows you to maintain your breasts, which reduces pain due to scars; in addition, this support allows the skin to remain in place, which is important, and promotes the healing process. Rest assured, modern post-operative bras are made of suitable materials and have well-designed shapes, so you can wear them without worrying, while enjoying a comfortable feeling. If you have to go out, you should avoid wearing sweaters and T-shirts, especially if they are too tight. It will be much better to opt for loose shirts, with one or two extra sizes so that you can feel comfortable. The same goes for jackets and coats, they should be large: this way you will have no trouble wearing them.

How long will I have to take time off work after my breast augmentation?

The length of time after which you return to work will depend mainly on the nature of your occupation. If you do a sedentary job, then you will be able to return to work after about a week after leaving the clinic. If, on the other hand, your job requires you to carry heavy loads, then you will have to rest for 2 to 3 weeks. Your surgeon will be able to advise you and tell you how long you should be off work depending on your situation.

When can I resume sports after my breast augmentation?

You will have to wait at least four weeks before you can resume sports. It may take longer depending on the type of sport you will be practicing. At the beginning, you can slowly resume sports with, for example, walking or static cycling, but you should not do any sport that uses the upper part of the body or any contact sport in order to avoid the risk of being hit on the chest.

It is important to strictly follow the surgeon’s recommendations concerning sport activities, only he can confirm the duration of rest and resumption, but also which sports to practice and avoid during the first months. If you use the services of a personal trainer, you must inform him/her of your new situation. When you are physically active, choose a sports bra: this type of bra helps keep your breasts in place, which is particularly important during the weeks following your surgery. By wearing a sports bra, you’ll be able to do all the moves you want without worrying about hurting your breasts.

What advice can be given for the remainder of the operation?

In order for your recovery period to go smoothly, and for you to feel more comfortable, here are some practical and easy-to-follow tips:

For at least two weeks, you will need to avoid making large movements with your arms. Since you will have difficulty making certain movements following the procedure, we recommend that you choose a bra that can be stapled and unstapled in the front. This will make it easier for you to put it on and take it off.

It will be possible to shower again after two days of the procedure. However, you will have to wear waterproof bandages and the showers will have to be short. When you resume sports, and if you lift, it is recommended that you lift only half your usual weight for the first few months. The important thing is to avoid heavy efforts in order not to risk complications in the pectoral muscle.

It will be necessary to wait at least 1 to 2 months before wearing a more traditional lingerie again. It will however be necessary to always use a sports bra during physical activities. Ask your surgeon how long it will take before you can wear your favourite lingerie again. He or she will be able to tell you how long it will take, as it varies from one patient to another. If you have suffered a blow to the chest as a result of a fall or other incident, you should consult your surgeon as soon as possible to ensure that the implants have not been damaged.

How long after breast augmentation do they look normal?