Recovery Process After Breast Augmentation Surgery

• 29 February 2024
• MCC Marketing

Last updated on July 23, 2024

Each body shape has its own beauty. However, we all have a unique perception of how our bodies should feel and look, and reaching that goal is our choice. Cosmetic surgical procedures allow us to make those changes to our body or face with the aesthetic enhancements we desire. Breast augmentation is one such option that can increase breast size or correct asymmetrical breasts.  However, surgical cosmetic procedures require careful consideration as you will need time to recover, and proper aftercare is critical for optimal results. If you’ve decided to get breast augmentation surgery and are unsure about the recovery process, we’ve got you covered. Read our guide to find out everything you need to know about recovery after a breast augmentation surgery.

What is Breast Augmentation Surgery?

Breast augmentation surgery involves inserting silicone breast implants (prosthesis), either under the breasts or above the chest muscle. This helps improve breast volume, symmetry, and overall appearance, addressing concerns related to breast size, shape, or changes due to pregnancy, weight loss, or ageing.

The procedure generally involves making incisions in the crease under the breast, around the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple), or in the armpit. The implant is placed in the pocket behind the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle. The choice of implant placement depends on factors like body type, implant type, and desired outcome. After placement, the incisions are closed with sutures, and the breasts are bandaged for support during the initial stages of healing.

The procedure is typically done under anaesthesia, and you will be required to rest for a couple of hours after the surgery until it wears off. Once released, you will need someone, a friend or family member, to drive you home.

Recovery After Breast Augmentation 

Recovery after breast augmentation can vary for each person, depending on the healing capacity, implant size and placement. It can take up to four to six weeks to completely heal.

Here’s what you can expect during the recovery phase:

Immediately After Surgery 

Once the anaesthesia wears off, you will feel pain and discomfort. Your practitioner will prescribe pain medication to help manage this and make you feel more comfortable. There will also be swelling and a sensation of stretching and pulling in your breast area. Rest as much as you can, following a balanced and nutritious diet. As you begin to heal, the pain, swelling and other symptoms will start to go down. It’s advisable to arrange for someone to help you for at least one week after surgery and do essential grocery shopping beforehand. You can take a shower after the first day if you do not have any drains. No soaking in the tub for six weeks unless you get the go-ahead from your practitioner. Your first follow-up appointment is usually after one week.

Next Two Weeks

After the first week, the pain should be feeling more manageable. Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting, but start walking as soon as possible. This promotes blood circulation and reduces swelling and the risk of blood clots. Avoid smoking, as it affects the body’s ability to heal, and stay away from alcohol, as it causes fluid retention. Don’t lift your arms above your head, and avoid excessively using your arms, taking it slow for two more weeks. Keep your incisions clean to prevent an infection, and apply gauze if required for comfort. After week 2, most people have recovered enough to return to work or a more laid-back schedule of their normal routine.

Week Three to Six

Around the third week, the pain and swelling should have decreased significantly. By week four, it fades to minimal discomfort. The scars will take at least six months to start softening. You will still need to wear a post-surgical compression bra for 6-8 weeks to help your breasts take shape and the fluid to drain properly. You can resume light exercise after week four. Refrain from touching your breast area or wearing an underwire bra until after the full six weeks are up and your practitioner has done a checkup. Sleep in a reclining position and avoid sleeping on your stomach for a few weeks.

Some additional tips for recovery include:

• Drink lots of water to stay hydrated
• Start light walking as soon as possible
• Don’t miss your follow-up appointments
• Take your pain medication as advised; don’t wait for the pain to build up
• If swelling, redness, or pain persist, and you have temperature or side effects from any medication, contact your practitioner immediately.

Overall, the recovery process is a personalised journey, and you should communicate openly with your practitioner, adhering to postoperative guidelines to achieve optimal results.

Embrace Your Beauty!

Breast augmentation can help improve breast shape, enhance cleavage, add more curves to your figure and even out breast shape, size or volume. Whatever your reason, it’s essential to consult a qualified practitioner before surgery. They can help provide a personalised treatment, recommending the most suitable implant size and considering your overall health for bespoke results. At My Cosmetic Clinic, we offer breast augmentation surgery in Sydney, providing the highest level of patient care and natural-looking results. We don’t have an affiliation with any specific implant manufacturer, so our practitioners’ decisions regarding the best implants for you will be purely evidence-based. Call us for a consultation to learn more about your options and complete guidance on the best-suited implants for your goals.