Breast augmentation surgery with implants is a procedure that can provide spectacular results for women who have small or asymmetric breasts. Many women interested in undergoing the procedure are concerned about how difficult and uncomfortable the recovery period will be. Breast augmentation with implants is a complex procedure that entails a recovery period just like any other surgery.
The patient is often allowed to return home within hours after surgery. For the first few days, the patient will experience swollen and bruised breasts, pain and discomfort. To reduce the swelling, the plastic surgeon will recommend wearing a special post-op or sports bra non-stop for at least four to six weeks. The pain can easily be alleviated with the help of the pain medication prescribed by the plastic surgeon.
The discomfort is natural at this time as the skin and other tissues of the breasts are trying to accommodate the implants. This means that tension can be felt in the breasts. The discomfort can also occur when the patient is trying to do certain arm movements, especially if the implants are positioned in the submuscular position. The discomfort and pain can be accentuated if the patient engages in demanding or intense physical activities such as lifting heavy objects from the floor, stretching to get something from an upper shelf, and so on. The plastic surgeon will advise you to avoid any types of exercise for at least a month or two after the procedure to avoid complications and unnecessary pain.
Generally speaking, the recovery after breast augmentation surgery is not more difficult than any other procedure. The patient should also avoid sleeping or lying on the front so as not to put unnecessary pressure on the breasts during the recovery period.
During the first few days after the procedure, it is normal for the patient to want to spend most of the time in bed, resting and recovering from the surgical trauma. Short walks around the house should be taken every couple of hours to avoid the formation of blood clots during this time.
To make the recovery period more comfortable, make sure to prepare your house in advance for your return from the medical facility. Also, it could be helpful to have a friend or family member around the house during the first few days post-op to help you with the chores or looking after the kids.
Most of the regular day-to-day activities can be resumed within the first week post-op and after the second week the patients can also return to work, but only if it doesn’t involve intense physical activities.