Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgeries, a surgical procedure which has helped many women become more confident in their lives and in their own bodies. If you choose to have a breast augmentation, you should be able to enjoy results that last for many years to come. However, the recovery after breast augmentation may involve some initial discomfort and changes that you need to accept to have your procedure done.
What to Expect
Breast augmentation is a common outpatient plastic surgery procedure, and you will be able to return home within a few short hours after your surgery. The first few days after breast surgery will be the most uncomfortable. You will feel fatigued and you will need to keep your arms and elbows close to your body, your physical activity will be limited, and Dr. Kole will prescribe pain medication and an antibiotic. Your breasts will also be wrapped for the first few days with an ace compression wrap to minimize swelling.
Every day after plastic surgery you will feel better and stronger. After about 3-5 days, most patients feel well enough to return to routine everyday activities like driving and working at a desk job.
At one week after the surgery, your sutures will be removed, and you’ll slowly be able to take on more and more daily activities like light lifting and washing your hair. By 2 weeks after breast augmentation, Dr. Kole will most likely give you the approval to participate in light physical activities.
Your breasts will look different right after surgery than they will look when all the swelling subsides. Immediately after your breast augmentation surgery, your breasts will be swollen, hard and higher on your chest because of the post-operative muscle spasms. The incisions will heal and the swelling will go down, but it may be several months until the breasts take on a more natural shape and feel as they get softer since the swelling subsides.
Shortening Recovery Time
There will be some post-operative breast augmentation downtime associated with breast augmentation- it’s unavoidable. However, you can take steps before and after surgery to minimize your post-operative downtime to ensure that your surgery recovery is as comfortable as possible. For example:
- Do not over-exert yourself after surgery (your body needs time to recover)
- Someone will need to help you for a few days after surgery
- Follow Dr. Kole’s instructions regarding breast compression and incision care
- Arrange for child care before surgery if necessary
- Take your pain pills and antibiotics as prescribed
- Prepare or arrange for meals in advance
Most women do not experience excessive discomfort after breast augmentation surgery, and usually the discomfort period is only a few days. When you’re fully recovered, you will have the breasts you’ve always wanted.
To schedule a consultation to find out whether breast augmentation is right for you, call Kole Plastic Surgery at 215-315-7655 to schedule a complimentary private consultation.
