How Long Does Recovery Take Following Breast Augmentation?

Many women want to look and feel their best regardless of their age. Breast size is a common concern, as women may feel that their breasts are not the right size or shape for their bodies. Breast augmentation can address these concerns by enhancing the size of the breasts, evening out asymmetrical breasts, and improving overall fullness and shape.

According to a 2018 survey, breast augmentation was the top cosmetic surgical procedure with 313,735 procedures performed, a 4% increase over 2017. Undergoing surgery is a major decision and understanding the recovery process can help women feel more prepared and confident about their breast augmentation. There will be limitations for the first few weeks, so getting everything in order, such as arranging for help with small children, cleaning the house, and doing other labor-intensive activities, can allow women to focus their energy on resting and healing. Every woman is different, so talk to your plastic surgeon about any questions or concerns you may have.

Immediately After Surgery

You will be under general anesthesia during surgery, so you will feel groggy and sore once you wake up. Most people are more alert and ready to come home within an hour after surgery. Make sure you have someone there to drive you and stay with you for at least the first night. Your surgeon will explain how to care for your incisions, when to take pain medication, any complications to look for, and how to care for your new breasts. Before you leave, the surgeon will put a special bra on you to provide the necessary support for your breasts and help minimize swelling and discomfort.

The First Few Days

The first couple of days after surgery can be the most uncomfortable as your body heals and adjusts. Stay on top of the pain, so you are as comfortable as possible. You should be up walking around the day of surgery. Within a few days you will feel more like yourself. Be careful not to overdo it; you should still be spending most of your time resting.

After the First Week

Once a week has passed, you will notice that much of the pain and discomfort has subsided. You may still feel soreness or tightness in your chest, but that is normal, and over-the-counter medications should be enough to manage any pain.
Once you follow up with your surgeon, they will let you know when you can slowly start to be more active and perform daily tasks. Many women are able to return to work after a week or two, as long as they do not have physically demanding jobs. If your job is labor-intensive, your surgeon may recommend taking three to four weeks off.

After the First Month

For at least the first four to six weeks following surgery, you will want to avoid any strenuous physical activity. This includes heavy lifting (typically nothing over 10 pounds) or intense exercises such as running, jogging, biking, or weight lifting. Engaging in these types of activities too soon could cause the implants to shift in the breast pocket and alter your results. You will also want to continue wearing a sports bra or recovery bra around-the-clock to ensure that your breasts are fully supported as they heal.

After Two Months

Every woman is different, but many recover from breast augmentation surgery after about six weeks. At this point, your surgeon will let you know if you can return to more rigorous exercise when you can transition back to wearing a normal bra, and any precautions you should continue to take. Keep in mind that while the swelling will have subsided, it can be about six months for your breasts to settle and final results to appear. They may still appear a bit high after two months, but they will likely drop a little more with time.

Around six months after breast augmentation, you will be able to fully see what your breasts will look like moving forward. If you have any concerns about the size, shape, or position, talk to your surgeon. They may need more time to settle, or your surgeon may be able to make some minor adjustments.

Get Fuller, Natural-Looking Breasts with Breast Augmentation

Full recovery from breast augmentation surgery can take a few months, but the results are worth the wait. You can feel more confident in the silhouette of your figure and in your overall look. The doctors at Town and Country Plastic Surgeons in Houston will work with you to determine the size and type of implant that fits best with your needs.

Get the fuller, natural-looking breasts you have always dreamed of through breast augmentation with a skilled, highly trained plastic surgeon.