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One of the most common questions patients ask about breast augmentation is how long their recovery will take. Breast augmentation recovery is typically minimal, with some patients only being sidelined for a few days. However, this can vary from patient to patient, and even more so depending on the specific breast augmentation surgical technique performed. For this reason, it is vital that you listen to Dr. Andreasen’s instructions to properly manage your recovery.
Immediately Post-Operation
Just after your operation, you will feel woozy as you wake up. Side effects of general anesthesia are generally mild, though you may experience some grogginess and aches for the first few hours. You will be provided a special support bra to wear for the duration of your recovery. This garment will help to control swelling by promoting blood circulation. It will also help to ensure that your implants settle in the correct place.
After a couple of hours, you will be released to go home. It is important that you have someone drive you home and keep an eye on you during that first day or two.
First Week
During this period, you can expect to experience mild to moderate discomfort. Your surgeon will provide you with medication (either prescription or over-the-counter) to manage pain during this time. You will have instructions on how to care for your healing incision sites, which you should follow to ensure that the scars heal quickly and without complications. Most patients should not work or exercise during this period. Be sure to contact your surgeon if any complications arise, such as excessive pain, extensive bleeding, or signs of infection.
Dr. Andreasen will provide you with a general timeline for when you can return to work and your normal day-to-day activities.
Fourth Week
By your fourth week following your surgery, most patients are ready to resume light activities and exercises. You should continue to wear your surgical support bra, and may still require over-the-counter medications to manage pain (although this is very rare). The swelling should mostly abate by this point, and the initial new contours of your breasts should be visible. You should still refrain from physically demanding activities such as exercise, heavy lifting, and similar activities.
It takes several weeks for your implants to settle into place. Breast implants typically sit higher on the chest initially, and, over time, they will drop.
Sixth Week
By this point, most swelling should be gone, and you may no longer require your surgical support bra. Exercise and vigorous activities may usually be resumed at this point, though you should consult your surgeon first just to be sure.
Final Results
The final results of your breast augmentation procedure should be visible within three to six months. If you are unhappy with your results at that time, you should contact Dr. Andreasen for a follow-up appointment to discuss your options. If you are satisfied with your results, nothing further needs to be done at this time. Your implants can last between 10 and 20 years (if not longer), depending on lifestyle factors and your physical state.
You should schedule follow-up appointments with Dr. Andreasen and undergo routine MRIs or ultrasounds (if you have silicone implants) every few years to ensure that no complications arise.
Make sure to mention your breast implants to your primary care physician when you are scheduled for mammograms. Some implants can create difficulties during cancer screenings if not taken into account. We hope you will enjoy your new enhanced breasts for decades to come.
Interested in Learning More?
If you have questions about breast augmentation surgery or the recovery process, contact Dr. Andreasen by calling 909-291-4900 or fill out our online contact form.
