The Ultimate Guide to Breast Augmentation Recovery

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the United States. In 2022 alone, over 300,000 breast augmentations were performed by members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Many women seek out this surgery to enhance their confidence and achieve the body of their dreams — but like any surgery, it requires a recovery period.

Before deciding to get breast implant surgery, make sure you know what the recovery will require. Giving yourself enough time to rest and relax helps prevent complications and ensures your body get used to the implants. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you can expect from the recovery process.

What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a surgery that enhances the size, shape, and other factors essential to the appearance of the breasts. There are a few different methods of augmentation; silicone gel or saline implants are a popular option, but you can also opt for fat transfer, where fat is taken from other parts of the body and placed in your breasts. The goal of breast augmentation is not only to increase volume but also to achieve a more balanced and proportionate figure.

People choose to pursue this surgery for a variety of reasons. Here are a few of the most common ones.

Breast Asymmetry

It’s extremely normal for one breast to be larger or smaller than the other, but finding bras that fit and clothes that flatter both breasts can be challenging. Many women with asymmetrical breasts pursue breast augmentation to even out their breasts and maintain a consistent cup size.

Tuberous Breasts

Tuberous breasts are a congenital condition in which one or both breasts develop abnormally, resulting in a constricted, tubular shape. Breast augmentation can correct this condition, providing a more natural and proportionate breast contour. With the help of breast augmentation, women with tuberous breasts can fit into traditional bras more comfortably and feel more confident with the both the shape and size of their breast

Fuller Breasts

Natural life events can affect the fullness and shape of your breasts. Weight loss, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and other hormonal changes can all reduce the fullness of your breasts. Many women look to breast augmentation after having children or losing a significant amount of weight to refine their figure.

Gender-Affirming Care

For many transgender women and non-binary individuals, breast augmentation is an important step in affirming their gender identity. This procedure helps align their physical appearance with how they see themselves, boosting mental health and overall well-being.

How To Prepare for Breast Augmentation

Taking enough time to heal after surgery ensures that your augmentation results are successful and that your body recovers efficiently. Consider your recovery process just as important as the procedure itself. Here are the practical steps you’ll need to take for recovery.

Take Time Off Work

Most patients need to take anywhere from one to four weeks off, depending on the physical demands of their jobs. Request time off well in advance. Once you have a confirmed surgery date, discuss your surgery plans with your employer. This will give your employer time to adjust schedules and workload and allow you to explore your leave options.

If your surgery is purely elective, you might not be eligible for paid leave. In this case, plan to use accrued sick days or PTO to cover your time off. If you’re self-employed or if paid leave isn’t an option, budget for this downtime in advance to avoid financial stress.

Find Your Support System

Before scheduling your surgery, contact those you trust and ask if they can help during your recovery. It’s a good idea to plan for at least the first few days to a week of assistance, depending on how quickly you recover. In the days immediately following your procedure, you’ll likely experience some physical limitations, including difficulty lifting objects, driving, or performing household tasks. Ask a trusted loved one to help you with such tasks during your recovery period.

Your support system can also assist with tasks like preparing meals, managing household chores, helping you get dressed, and driving you to follow-up appointments. Having someone there to help also provides emotional support, which can be incredibly comforting during your recovery.

Mental, Emotional, and Physical Preparation

It’s common to experience emotional fluctuations during the recovery period, including feelings of anxiety, frustration, or even depression. Consider scheduling self-care activities you can enjoy while healing, such as reading, watching movies, or practicing meditation.

Recovery is a gradual process, and it may take weeks to months to see the final results of your surgery. It’s normal to expect immediate results from the surgery, but adjusting your expectations can help to prevent feelings of disappointment immediately after surgery.

Physically, you’ll need to create a comfortable and restful environment in your home. Set up a recovery space with easy access to essential items like medications, water, and entertainment. Consider preparing and freezing meals ahead of time so that you don’t have to worry about cooking while you’re recovering. Stock up on easy-to-eat, nutritious foods that will support your healing process.

What to Expect After Breast Augmentation

Immediately after breast augmentation surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery area, where you’ll be closely monitored as the effects of the anesthesia wear off. It’s normal to feel groggy or disoriented due to the anesthesia, and you may experience nausea, dizziness, or chills. These side effects should subside within a few hours.

Pain and discomfort are common during the initial recovery period, particularly in the first 48 to 72 hours after surgery. Your surgeon will likely prescribe pain medication to help manage this discomfort. You might also experience swelling, bruising, and tightness in your chest as your body adjusts to the implants. These symptoms are a natural part of the healing process and should gradually improve over the coming weeks.

You’ll need to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours. You’ll need someone available to assist with your immediate post-surgery needs, such as helping you move around, taking medications, and ensuring you’re comfortable.

The Week After Breast Augmentation

During the first week after your surgery, limit your movement and avoid strenuous activities. This includes lifting heavy objects, bending over, or reaching above your head, which can strain your incisions and hinder healing.

Your sleeping position is another critical aspect of your recovery. Sleeping on your stomach is not recommended after surgery, as this can put pressure on your newly augmented breasts. Instead, try sleeping on your back with your upper body slightly elevated. Propping yourself with pillows or a recliner can help reduce swelling and promote healing.

To manage pain and discomfort, follow your surgeon’s instructions for taking prescribed pain medication. They may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to reduce inflammation. Applying cold compresses to the affected areas can help minimize bruising and swelling, but be sure to place a cloth between the compress and your skin to avoid frostbite.

While it’s normal to experience some pain, swelling, and bruising during the first week, excessive pain after this point is cause for concern. Watch for signs of infection, such as excessive redness, warmth, pus at the incision sites, and fever or chills.

If you notice any of these symptoms, or if your pain becomes severe and unmanageable, contact your surgeon or a medical professional immediately. Additionally, if you experience sudden swelling in one breast, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, seek medical attention right away, as these could be signs of more severe complications.

Long-term Recovery of Breast Augmentation

Here’s what to expect in the weeks to months following your procedure:

• Scarring: It’s normal to have scars after breast augmentation, especially at the incision sites. These scars will be more noticeable in the initial weeks following surgery, appearing red or pink. Over time, they should gradually fade and become less prominent. Your surgeon may recommend scar treatments, such as silicone sheets or ointments, to help minimize their appearance.
• Swelling and sensitivity: Swelling may persist for several weeks, and your breasts may feel firm or tight as the tissues heal. Sensitivity around the nipples and breasts can also fluctuate during this period, but these sensations should normalize as your recovery progresses.
• Breast shape and position: It can take several months for your breasts to settle into their final shape and position. Initially, your breasts may appear higher or more rounded, but as the implants settle, they will take on a more natural appearance.
• Follow-up appointments: Your surgeon will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure everything is healing as expected. These visits are crucial for addressing any concerns you may have and for making sure your implants are settling correctly.
• Resume physical activity: While you can gradually resume light activities within the first few weeks, you’ll need to avoid high-impact exercises or heavy lifting for several weeks or even months, depending on your surgeon’s advice. This helps prevent complications and ensures a smooth recovery.

Every individual’s recovery timeline is unique. Be patient with your body and follow your surgeon’s guidance closely.

How To Return to Normal Activities

During the first week after surgery, focus on rest and gentle movement. Light activities, such as short walks around your home or neighborhood, promote circulation and prevent stiffness. However, avoid any strenuous activity, bending, or lifting.

As you heal, you can slowly introduce light activities into your routine. These may include:

• Walking at a relaxed pace;
• Light household chores, such as dusting or setting the table;
• Gentle stretching, but avoiding reaching above your head;
• Simple office tasks if you feel up to it, but only if they don’t involve lifting or strenuous activity.

Your ability to return to work will depend on the nature of your job. If your job involves sitting at a desk or performing light tasks, you may be able to return to work within one to two weeks. Be mindful of your body’s signals and avoid any actions that cause discomfort if your job requires physical labor, heavy lifting, or prolonged standing. Plan for a longer recovery period — typically three to four weeks, or as your surgeon advises.

Breast augmentation is a transformative procedure that can significantly enhance your confidence. But letting yourself fully recover is as important as finding the right surgeon. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth recovery and enjoy the full benefits of your new look.

If you’re considering breast augmentation and want to ensure a safe, personalized experience, Dr. Sarah Mess and her team are here to help. With years of expertise in breast augmentation and a commitment to patient care, Dr. Mess will guide you through every step of the process, from consultation to recovery. Book a virtual consultation with us and take the first step toward achieving the body you’ve always dreamed of.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Augmentation Recovery

How Long Will I Need to Take Off Work?

The time off work varies depending on the nature of your job. Those with desk jobs may only need one to two weeks off. However, if you have a more physically demanding job, you might need up to three to four weeks.

When Can I Drive Again?

You can typically resume driving once you are no longer taking prescription pain medication and feel comfortable with the movement of your arms — usually around one to two weeks after surgery.

What Type of Bra Should I Wear?

In the initial weeks, you should wear a surgical or sports bra without an underwire, but your surgeon may provide more specific recommendations. These kinds of bras support your breasts, promoting proper healing.

When Can I Start Exercising?

You can begin light activities like walking a few days after surgery. However, you should wait four to six weeks for more strenuous activities or exercises that involve the upper body.

How Do I Manage Pain and Discomfort?

You can manage pain and discomfort with prescribed medications, over-the-counter pain relievers, and cold compresses. Devoting yourself to following your surgeon’s instructions diligently will also help.

What Are the Signs of Infection?

Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, severe pain, warmth around the incision site, and fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your surgeon immediately.

When Will I See the Final Results?

You can expect to see the final results of your breast augmentation three to six months after the surgery, once the implants have settled and the swelling has completely subsided.

How Do I Prepare My Home for Recovery?

Prepare your home by setting up a comfortable recovery area with supplies within easy reach. Ensure you have plenty of pillows, easy medication access, and nutritious food and drinks.