How Long Does It Take to Recover from Breast Augmentation Surgery?

Have you ever wondered how long it would take to recover from breast augmentation surgery?  The answer is probably not as long as you think!!

Dr. Elizabeth Grasse and Dr. Debra Bergman are both skilled plastic surgeons committed to patient care. At your consultation, they will explain the entire surgical process and post-surgical recovery period in great detail with you so that you know what to expect prior to and following surgery. Below is a general overview of what patients should keep in mind after they have undergone breast enlargement surgery.

Following the surgery, your breasts will be bandaged with gauze and you will be instructed to wear a surgical bra. (Surgical bras provide support and compression following surgery, which are both important in the healing process.) In the first two days to one week after surgery, discomfort and fatigue are both normal. The discomfort can be managed with prescribed pain medications, ice, and rest. The dressings will be removed after a one to two days and any stitches will be removed after approximately one week to 10 days.

Generally, patients will be able to return to work one week after breast augmentation surgery so long as their job doesn’t involve heavy lifting or anything physically demanding. In fact, it’s important that patients refrain from all strenuous activities for several weeks after getting breast implants. It also should be noted that patients are asked to refrain from smoking prior to surgery and in the weeks following surgery as smoking can adversely effect the healing process.

Many patients will notice swelling of their breasts following surgery, which is normal and should subside after a few weeks to a few months. It will take a little time before the breast implants settle properly, so there may be some issues with implant firmness, implant shape, and implant contour early on. These matters should rectify themselves in a few weeks. Patients are encouraged to contact the office about any of their concerns following breast augmentation surgery.

Every surgery carries some degree of risk, but those risks and an extended recovery time can be minimized so long as the right steps after the surgery are taken. After undergoing breast augmentation, it’s important that you follow your instructions for post-operative care.

For more information about breast enlargement and other breast surgeries, we encourage you to contact us today. You also can check out our photo gallery of breast augmentations. We here at Carmel Cosmetic & Plastic Surgeons look forward to speaking with you.