Breast augmentation surgery is a cosmetic surgery that involves the placement of breast implants to increase the size and shape of the breasts. Women may choose to undergo breast augmentation to increase their breast size or correct asymmetry. Also, It may be the best solution for tubular breast syndrome. However, breast augmentation is a major surgical procedure that requires careful preparation and proper recovery to ensure the best possible recovery. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of proper recovery after breast augmentation and what to expect during the recovery period, including pain management, scar care, activity and exercise, diet and nutrition, and follow-up care.
Breast Augmentation Recovery Timeline
Breast augmentation recovery takes approximately three months for a full recuperation period. This does, however, vary between patients. Recovery can be easier with people close by who can offer help during this process. Most patients are able to return to work and resume their normal light activities after 2 weeks of surgery.
It’s important to keep in touch with Dr Doyle about any changes or discomfort. The first post-operative appointment is seven days after your surgery. This is a general checkup to see how you are healing and to start scar treatment.
If you are wondering what to expect after breast augmentation, here’s a breakdown of what to expect during each stage of breast augmentation recovery week by week, along with some tips for making this process smoother.
Week 1: Immediate Postoperative Period
During the first week of recovery from breast augmentation, you will experience the most discomfort and limited mobility. You may feel groggy from the anesthesia medication used during your surgery and may need to take pain medication to manage the pain after breast augmentation. You will also need to wear a compression garment for 6 weeks after surgery to help reduce swelling and support your breasts.
You will likely experience pain, swelling, bruising, and tightness in the chest area. You may also have drains in place to remove excess fluid.
Week 2-3: Early Recovery Period
During the second and third week of boob job recovery (breast augmentation), you will generally start to feel more comfortable and may be able to return to light activities. You will still need to wear your compression garment and take pain medication as needed.
You may still experience some pain and discomfort, but it should be less severe than during the first week. Swelling and bruising should start to subside, and you may begin to feel more like yourself.
Continue to rest as much as possible, avoid lifting anything heavy, and gradually increase your activity level as advised by your surgeon.
Week 4-6: Mid-Recovery Period
During the 4 to 6 week period post breast augmentation surgery, you should start to see significant improvements in your healing and feel more like your usual self. You may be able to return to work and resume some light exercise.
You may still have some mild pain and discomfort, but most of the swelling and bruising should be gone. Your scars should begin to fade and flatten, and your breasts will start to look and feel softer.
Week 7-12: Late Breast Augmentation Recovery Period
During the final weeks of your breast implant recovery, you should be feeling much better and have more energy. You may still have some mild discomfort, but it should be minimal.
Your scars should continue to fade, and your breasts will settle into their final position. You may be able to resume all of your normal activities, including exercise.
Breast Augmentation Scar
Breast augmentation surgery involves making incisions on the breasts, which can result in scars. Understanding the nature of these boob job scars (breast augmentation) and how to care for them is an important part of the recovery time for breast augmentation.
Understanding the Breast Implant Scarring
Breast augmentation scarring can vary in appearance, size, and location depending on the type of incision used. It’s important to note that scars are a normal part of the healing process and will typically fade over time.
Types of Breast Implant Scarring
The type of incision used for breast augmentation can impact the location and appearance of the resulting breast implant scars. Some of the most common types of incisions include:
Inframammary incision: made along the fold beneath the breast
Periareolar incision: made around the edge of the areola
Transaxillary incision: made in the armpit
The appearance of the resulting scar will also depend on factors such as the patient’s skin type and healing ability.
How to Care for Scars from Breast Augmentation Surgery
During breast augmentation scar recovery, proper scar care is important for minimising their appearance and promoting healing. Dr Doyle will provide specific instructions on how to care for your breast implant scars, but some general tips include:
- Keep the incision site clean and dry
- Avoid exposing the incision to direct sunlight or tanning beds
- Wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritation of the incision site
- Use silicone gel or sheeting to help soften and flatten scars
- Follow a healthy diet and stay hydrated to promote healing
Tips for Minimising the Appearance of Scars from Boob Job (Breast Augmentation)
While it’s not always possible to completely eliminate breast augmentation scars, there are steps you can take to minimise their appearance. These include:
- Massaging the scar with vitamin E oil or another moisturising cream
- Applying scar treatments such as Mederma or Bio-Oil
- Avoiding smoking, which can impair healing and increase scarring
- Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy diet
- Protecting the incision site from sun exposure
Remember, scars will fade over time, so patience is key. It’s important to follow Dr Doyle’s specific instructions for scar care and to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process.
Breast Augmentation Recovery Tips to Minimise Scarring
Following these tips may help improve your recovery:
- Apply ice packs for breast pain.
- Wear your compression garment for swelling.
- Have support during recovery.
- Keep your surgeon informed about changes in breast tissue.
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in protein and fruits/vegetables.
- Take time off work.
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions.
- Sleep on your back with an elevated upper body.
- Stop smoking 6-8 weeks pre and post-surgery
- Consider lymphatic massage to improve breast augmentation recovery.
- Massage the incision site with silicone gel or cream.
- Avoid sun exposure to the incision site.
- Keep the incision site clean and dry.
- Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting.
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding scar care and treatment.
FAQs
Will I Be Able to Breastfeed After Breast Implant Surgery?
Breastfeeding with implants is generally possible if the implants are placed under the chest muscle and do not interfere with the breast milk ducts. However, if the implants are placed over the muscle or the surgery affects the milk ducts, it may be more difficult or even impossible to breastfeed. It is important to discuss any concerns you may have about breastfeeding with your surgeon before undergoing breast surgery.
Will the Results of My Breast Implant Surgery Last Forever?
The results of breast implant surgery vary and can last anywhere between 10 years to a lifetime. But, it is not uncommon for implants to be recommended for readjustment or replacement. This is different for everyone. Motiva brand implants generally last between 10 and 25 years.
Can I Resume Exercise, Including Running, after Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Yes, you can gradually return to your exercise routine, including running, after breast augmentation surgery. However, it’s crucial to allow your body adequate healing time. Initially, you should rest for about two to three weeks to avoid potential complications. During this time, engage in light activities like walking. After this initial period, gradually reintroduce light exercises, such as jogging or cycling, while avoiding strenuous activities that target the chest muscles. Following your surgeon’s guidance, you can progressively increase the intensity and variety of exercises over several weeks. It’s essential to prioritise your body’s healing process and listen to any discomfort or signals your body may give you.
Do Breast Implants Go Down in Size or Drop Over Time?
The actual size of your breast implants will not change. Although, excess skin and the lowering of the breasts can occur due to various reasons, including aging, weight loss, or pregnancy. A breast lift with implants procedure can help to lift the shape, size, and position of the breasts. The breast lift recovery and breast augmentation recovery process will be very similar, the only difference with breast implant recovery however is that the breast lift scars will be slightly different.
Book a Consultation
Dr Doyle has gained his plastic surgery expertise from 30 years of experience. Dr Doyle provides customised breast augmentation techniques to his patients. Book your initial consultation with Dr Doyle today.
About Dr Mark Doyle FRACS (Plas) – Queensland Plastic Surgeon
Servicing patients in Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Cairns and New South Wales NSW – Northern Rivers, Byron Bay, Ballina, Lismore and more.
Dr Mark Doyle is a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years of experience performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He has completed all required training and only carries out approved surgical practices. There are NO undertrained doctors or cosmetic doctors acting as surgeons at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery.
