Breast Augmentation Recovery

• 5 September 2024
• Dr Joseph Rizk

Last updated on September 5, 2024

If you plan to undergo breast augmentation, you may imagine waking up from surgery and enjoying your results from day one. However, the reality is it takes time for the breasts to settle into their final position. Initially, you will be recovering from surgery, which can be uncomfortable and frustrating at times since physical activity is limited in early recovery.

Knowing what to expect and preparing for breast augmentation are essential to a successful recovery. This article covers steps you can take to get ready for surgery and manage your expectations as you heal. Once you get past the initial stages of recovery, you can start enjoying your results.

Preparing for Your Recovery

There are steps you can take to make your recovery go smoothly. As your surgery date approaches, let your loved ones know you will need assistance with driving, pet care, child care, and chores, especially during the first week or two.

Preparing your home is . Be sure to have essentials such as food, drinks, toilet paper, tissues, charging devices, and loose clothes where you can easily access them. At the grocery store, skip snacks that contain salt, which can worsen swelling. Instead, favor healthy snacks and protein-rich foods that require minimal preparation to eat.

Most patients take up to a week off of work after breast augmentation. Let your employer know well in advance what dates you will not be in the office. Remember, you are not obligated to tell them you’re undergoing cosmetic breast surgery. You can simply say you need time off for personal reasons or because you are having a surgical procedure.

Steps to Prepare for Surgery

• Fill prescriptions
• Request up to five days off work
• Lay out loose, comfortable clothing
• Arrange a ride to and from the hospital
• Shop for soft bras without an underwire, however Dr Rizk’s team will organise the appropriate garment for your surgery.
• Stock up on healthy snacks and beverages
• Ask for help with chores, shopping, and childcare in advance
• Stay entertained with low-impact activities like reading, crafting, puzzles, and movies

Stages of Breast Augmentation Recovery

Here is what to expect in the first few days and weeks of breast augmentation recovery.

Immediately Post-Surgery

Expect to feel groggy when you wake up in the recovery room at the hospital. Everyone is different. Some patients cry after anaesthesia, some feel nauseous, and others simply feel tired, sore, and ‘out of it.’ A nurse will be present to oversee you until you feel well enough to go home. Most patients spend 60 to 90 minutes in the recovery room. When you are ready to leave, someone will need to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours.

The First Week

Most patients say the first few days are the hardest. During this time, take it and rest. You may sleep more than usual as your body expends energy to heal.

While breast augmentation isn’t associated with a high pain level, your breasts may feel sore, achy, and tender. Discomfort tends to peak in the first few days and then gradually subside. Dr. Rizk may prescribe pain medication or advise taking OTC pain relievers as needed.

Bruising and swelling are prominent immediately after the surgery. The breasts typically appear compressed and firm. Remember, this is not your final result. Over time, the tissues will soften and relax, allowing the breasts to take on a natural look and feel over the next several months. Be sure to stay hydrated and avoid salty foods to minimise swelling.

In this early stage of healing, avoid lifting objects weighing more than 5 kg. Light walking is encouraged to lower the risk of blood clots in the legs, but vigorous exercise is off-limits for at least four weeks.

Driving is restricted during the first 24 hours after general anaesthesia. Most patients feel comfortable enough to get behind the wheel within a few days after breast augmentation. If you have young children that need to get to school, sports, or social activities, ask a family member or arrange a ride share with the other parents until you feel ready to drive.

You will also need to take time off work. Patients with sedentary jobs usually return to work within a week. You may need additional time off if your career is physically demanding or requires heavy lifting.

2-3 Weeks Post-Surgery

During weeks two and three, the discomfort tapers off. Bruising generally resolves in the first 14 to 21 days. The breasts still appear to ride high and tight as the tissues are still quite swollen at this stage. Watch for signs of infection and contact Dr. Rizk’s office immediately if you notice anything unusual.

While you may be feeling a bit better, now is not the time to overexert yourself. You will need to refrain from heavy lifting and strenuous exercise. Walking and light cardio are okay, but you should avoid strenuous activity for at least four weeks or until cleared by your Sydney plastic surgeon.

4-6 Weeks Post-Surgery

You are starting to feel more like yourself. While there can be some lingering soreness, it tends to be minimal. Most patients can increase their activity level and perform light exercise at four to six weeks post-op and participate in full exercise at around two months. Make sure to wear a supportive bra during high-impact exercise. Your breasts will continue to drop and fluff as the swelling diminishes. These are not your final results, but you are seeing progress.

Final Results

At eight weeks after breast augmentation, most patients are back to all daily activities without restriction.

You can start wearing a regular bra now. Bra shopping can be fun as there may be more styles that fit your figure. However, it can take six months to a year for your breasts to settle into their final position. The shape of your breasts may continue to change, so only invest in a few good bras to get by for the time being. It helps to have a professional measure and fit you for a new brassiere. Your band size will likely stay the same, but your cup size may increase.

At twelve months post-op, your breasts should feel softer to the touch and more natural in appearance. The breast augmentation scars also fade to a fine line in most cases.

The Recovery Process is Worth the End Result

Recovering from breast augmentation is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time to appreciate the final results. There can be some hurdles, both mental and physical, in the first few weeks of recovery. Trust the process and rest assured that most patients feel the temporary discomfort is well worth the final results.

About The Author

Dr Joseph Rizk

Dr Joseph Rizk is a trusted advanced Plastic Surgeon based in Sydney. He has undergone significant training to become an expert in the fields of breast, face and body surgery.