Breast augmentation recovery varies from person to person. Most patients find it relatively smooth, but some may experience a few more challenges.
If you are considering breast augmentation before and after, you will undoubtedly have questions. We’re here to help. Read on to learn more.
How to Prepare Before and After Breast Augmentation
Preparing for a breast augmentation procedure involves planning steps for both before and after surgery. While your breast augmentation consultation will address many of these details, setting up your home and scheduling time off will be essential steps in the process.
Before Breast Augmentation: What to Prepare
1. Time off work
You’ll need to arrange for time off from work. This is especially important during the first few days of healing as your body adjusts. Depending on the nature of your job, a longer period off may be needed.
2. Childcare and pet care
If you have children or pets, arranging for support with their care can make a big difference in your post-surgery comfort. Lifting young children or pets should be avoided to prevent strain, so make sure you have help on-hand, especially during the 1st week post op breast augmentation.
3. A comfortable space to rest at home
If you create a comfortable recovery space with easy access to essential items, this can be very helpful. Use extra pillows for back support and have blankets, reading materials, and your TV remote and charging cord within reach.
You may also find it helpful to have a small table nearby for medications, water, and snacks. A quiet and cozy environment can improve comfort during breast augmentation recovery.
4. Meals and snacks
Having meals and snacks ready can be a tremendous relief during recovery. Prepping nutritious food beforehand can also aid your body in the healing process, so consider meals that are high in protein and fiber.
5. Recovery tools and accessories
Certain recovery tools, such as a compression bra after breast augmentation, are essential for healing and comfort. These bras help reduce swelling and keep everything in place as you recover. Some patients also find cold packs or comfortable pillows or wedges helpful.
After Breast Augmentation: Tips for Recovery
1. Follow all aftercare instructions
Your surgeon will provide aftercare instructions based on your specific needs. Follow these carefully to reduce the number of changes and complications and aid in your recovery. Instructions might cover topics like medication, incision care, and limits on physical activity.
2. Focus on rest
Resting allows your body to concentrate on healing. Many patients find that taking time to rest fully helps reduce discomfort and speeds up recovery. But it can be hard! Light activities can usually resume within a few days, but you should avoid anything strenuous or high-impact for several weeks.
3. Sleep in the correct position
Sleeping on your back, ideally propped up with pillows, helps you avoid placing pressure on your breasts and chest. This position also aids circulation and reduces swelling. If you’re accustomed to sleeping on your side or stomach, practice sleeping on your back a few days before surgery.
4. Know your limitations
During recovery, it’s important to avoid activities that involve lifting, pushing, or pulling. These motions can strain your chest muscles and affect healing. But again, it can be difficult to limit yourself. Whenever possible, be mindful of activities like carrying groceries or even reaching for high shelves. Over time, these limitations will lessen, and you can fully go back to your everyday routines.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
Your surgeon and their office are there to help guide you through the process and answer your questions and concerns. If you’re unsure about any part of your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to them. Whether it’s about medications, your compression bra, or unexpected sensations, open communication is important and useful.
FAQs: Breast Augmentation Before and After
What can I expect during the first week post-op breast augmentation?
What can I expect during the first week post-op breast augmentation?During the first week of recovery, patients typically experience mild to moderate swelling and some discomfort. Your breasts may feel high and tight. You’ll need to wear a compression bra after breast augmentation to support your breasts and minimize swelling. Rest is crucial during this time, so do not try to do too much.
How long will it take to see breast augmentation results?
Initial results are usually visible as swelling decreases, but full breast augmentation results may take a few months to develop. Take a look at some breast augmentation before and after pics for examples (just note the difference between implants vs fat transfer breast augmentation before and after pics). As your body adjusts to the implants and the swelling continues to subside, the final shape and position of your breasts will become visible.
Please Contact Us to Book a Consultation
Want to achieve larger breasts with breast implants? Many women find themselves interested in this procedure for a long time before they finally book a consultation. Don’t wait!
Book your breast augmentation consultation today by giving our office a call. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Dahlia Rice would be happy to speak with you about your goals for breast surgery and your candidacy for this procedure. Please also take a moment to click through our website and look at the before and after photos of breast augmentation procedures in our plastic surgery gallery.
You’ll see that many size and shape options are available. You might also consider a breast augmentation with a lift, especially if you struggle with excess skin that may have developed due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or aging. Dr. Rice performs other plastic surgery procedures for both men and women as well.
Please give us a call to book your personal consultation appointment. Dr. Rice and our team will be here helping you every step of the way.
