Top 10 Breast Augmentation Recovery Tips For Faster Healing
Published August 8, 2023
Undergoing breast augmentation can be fulfilling. It is a popular cosmetic procedure that surely enhances a woman’s appearance and self-confidence. But if you’re recovering for one? Usually dreadful. Some women can resume their daily activities surprisingly quickly after having this surgery. While others may feel unable to function for up to two weeks. A woman’s age, fitness level, lifestyle, and the kind of breast augmentation all attributes to how fast she recovers.
This article compiles all the best breast augmentation recovery tips. All are science-backed for faster healing and avoidance of post-op nightmares. Make sure your downtime is manageable, and your feet back on the ground in no time. Let’s begin.
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery that expands the size of a person’s breast. In most surgeries, implants are applied to enhance breast size. While fat from another part of the body can be used, this method tends to be less expected.
People, especially women typically get this surgery to:
- Improve physical appearance
- Restore the breast after a mastectomy or other breast surgery
- Correct uneven breast due to certain conditions, or surgery
- Increase breast size after pregnancy or breastfeeding
People wanting male-to-female or male-to-nonbinary top surgery might also seek this cosmetic procedure.
Recovery from breast augmentation is about 6 to 8 weeks. It may take you more time, depending on how your body heals. Your overall health matters too. Every person is different, so it is vital to stay in touch with your surgeon during your healing process.
Top 10 Breast Augmentation Recovery Tips
1. Design a soothing recovery area
It’s very crucial to organize your home for your initial recovery before your breast augmentation surgery. Whether it’s your bedroom, or a couch in your living room, you will need to make a comfortable space to heal properly. Prepare extra pillows for comfortably elevating yourself. Get your blankets ready for naps. Organize a tracking system that will manage your medications. Stock up on healthy snacks and water bottles that are easily reachable. Ensure all of your cozy habits, such as reading, binge-watching, or listening to music, are available to you at all times.
2. Stock up on comfortable pillows
After your surgery, it’s crucial to keep yourself upright. A 45-degree angle to be exact. This will reduce swelling and bruising. Having a few soft pillows of different sizes can make your healing phase more comfortable. Get at least one large body pillow and a donut-shaped pregnancy pillow. This way, you have options depending on what positions you feel most cozy in.
3. Fill your fridge with healthy options
After a breast augmentation surgery, you will have movement restrictions. Expect that you cannot lift and reach things properly. This means you should not use this time trying to cook meals in your kitchen. It’s advisable to keep your fridge stocked with fresh, healthy meal preps. Buy wholesome snack options so you can focus on healing.
Stay away from too much takeout or delivery of food. They are often packed with sodium, which can lead to dehydration.
4. Ice packs will be your best friend
You will experience the most swelling in the first three to five days after your breast augmentation. Have reusable ice packs with you 24/7. Ice yourself frequently. It should consist of 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off.
5. Combat swelling with arnica and light movement
The herbal supplement Arnica montana is best for breast augmentation. It makes the swelling go down faster. So buy a high-quality arnica supplement, it is worth the extra money.
Another great breast implant recovery tip is to get moving. Movement decreases swelling. Those that are in bed and sedentary most of the time are more prone to pain, swelling, and delayed healing. Walk around your house. You can also walk around your neighborhood in the afternoon. Nevertheless, take it easy. You must still consider all post-care guidelines specifically tailored to you.
6. Massage cocoa butter over dry, swollen skin
After every shower session in your recovery stage, apply Shea or cocoa butter. These two will soothe tight post-op skin.
7. Avoid post-surgery constipation
After any surgery, constipation commonly arises. Thankfully, it is very easy to prevent. Firstly is to cut narcotics, if at all possible. These are typically the main culprit behind constipation. Walk more. People who like to take a stroll are less likely to be constipated.
It would also be helpful to incorporate high-fiber foods into your diet. Apricots and cranberries contain a lot of natural fiber. Drink a lot of water.
8. Tune in to post-op undergarments
Your surgeon is likely to give you a post-op bra. Post-op bras are typically soft, breathable, and easy to remove. You need to wear one for the first few weeks of your healing stage. You can then follow with an underwire-free bra as you become comfortable. As you meet your three to six-month surgery mark, you can proceed to proper bra shopping. Patience is key.
9. Care for your incisions
After your surgery, you will have two tiny chest incisions. These incisions should heal well if maintained clean and dry at all times.
You should inspect them regularly for any redness or swelling. The two can indicate an infection. If you spot anything unusual, call your surgeon right away. This will aid in evaluating your situation further. They will recommend treatment options if needed.
10. Attend post-op checkups
Finally, on how to speed up breast augmentation surgery. Attend your post-op checkups. These exams are crucial. They allow your doctor to determine how well the operation went and if you require extra care. It will also address any issues that may arise. Your post-op exams may rob you of your time, but they are vital to ensure you receive the best possible care.
Bonus tip for your recovering breast implant, you have to be patient. Learn to wait for your body to settle down, adjust, and recover. You might feel impatient, but falling prey to impulsiveness will serve you no good. There will be times when you feel that your breasts do not look like how you would like them. Keep your head off of those kinds of thoughts. Your body will transform just as you want it to.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Augmentation Recovery
1. When can I return to work after breast augmentation surgery?
The time you can resume working will depend on the type of job that you have. It will also anchor your healing process. Typically, patients with desk jobs can go back to work within a week or two. Patients with physically demanding jobs may need to wait longer. They must heal themselves fully, and demand possibly 6 weeks.
2. Can I drive after breast augmentation surgery?
It is not advisable to drive following breast augmentation surgery. This is due to pain medications impairing your ability to drive safely. You must wait until you are no longer taking pain medications. You must ensure you feel comfortable moving your arms without discomfort before driving.
3. Will I have scars after breast augmentation surgery, and how can I minimize their appearance?
Yes, you will have scars after breast augmentation, but with proper care, they can fade over time. Follow your surgeon’s scar care instructions. This typically may include keeping the incision sites clean and moisturized. Protect them from the sun.
4. What are the signs of complications during breast augmentation recovery?
It is crucial to be observant of any unusual symptoms you may feel during your recovery. Excessive swelling, uncontrollable pain, fever, and abnormal discharge are not good. If you experience any of these, keep in touch with your doctor immediately.
Breast augmentation can be a life-changing procedure. It can boost your self-confidence, and significantly improve your physical appearance. It can also make your life easier. The success of its outcome depends well on how well you look after yourself during your recovery period. Thus, it’s vital to prioritize it. By following our best tips for breast augmentation recovery, you will heal in no time. Remember to stay in contact with your surgeon to further boost your well-being after your surgery.
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About The Author
Meet Rei Bayucca, your go-to writer for thought-provoking and captivating articles. With a wealth of experience across various industries, she is passionate about educating and inspiring her readers through her well-crafted content. Get ready for a refreshing take on the topics you care about.