Breast augmentation cosmetic surgery procedure has become relatively safer and less invasive over the years due to innovations in surgical techniques. However, it is still a major surgery and involves a considerably recovery component to ensure sustainable and desirable results. The patient should be prepared to diligently follow the surgeon’s recovery instructions.
Dr. Jacob Bloom is a board certified plastic surgeon providing breast augmentation and various other surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures to patients in Chicago, IL and surrounding locations. Dr. Bloom and his team will engage with the patient through the recovery phase to help her have a safe and comfortable recovery.
Estimated Downtime
The patient should be prepared to spend at least one week at home after breast augmentation plastic surgery. During this period, she should take adequate rest, but from the second day she can begin to perform light activities and do short walks within the home. However, any contact with the incision areas should be avoided to minimize infection risks, and minimal strain should be put on the incisions.
The overall recovery as well as downtime will differ between patients, depending on the incision size, implant placement, the surgical expertise of the operating surgeon, and the patient’s natural healing ability. In most cases, the patient can resume their normal routine in about one to two weeks. But vigorous exercises and heavy lifting of weights should be avoided for an additional two weeks.
Post-Surgical Garments
If the patient has undergone a submuscular implant surgery, she will be required to wear a surgical bra during the recovery phase. The bra should be worn at all times except when bathing. For subglandular implant placement, the patient may only need a regular bra without underwire because the incisions will be smaller in this case.
A wrap-style bandage or a surgical bra will support the harmonizing between the implant and the breast tissue and muscle. Patient can use this bra until the healing has improved and the breasts have acquired their full new shape. Dedicated cosmetic surgeon Dr. Bloom receives patients from Chicago, IL and nearby areas.
No Smoking
Smoking and post-surgical healing do not go together. The nicotine content in tobacco will cause shrinkage in the blood vessels, leading to reduced blood oxygen levels. This will obstruct the function of RBCs, slowing down the recovery and increasing the risk of complications.
Pain Management
Mild pain medications will usually be prescribed by the surgeon for the first week of recovery. This will keep the patient comfortable till the soreness and bruising improves. Driving and any other activity that requires full alertness should be avoided while the patient is using pain meds.
Follow-up Appointments
The patient may be required to visit the surgeon’s office a day after the procedure to remove bandages and have them replaced with a surgical bra. But some surgeons may only schedule the first post-operative appointment at the end of the first week. Temporary drains and sutures may be removed at this time, and further appointments may be scheduled as necessary.