Recovery from Breast Augmentation
It is exciting to wake up from breast augmentation surgery knowing your breasts are bigger and more voluptuous. However, recovering from surgery is an important process and can impact the overall outcome. It should not be rushed; you’ll be glad that you allowed yourself time to heal properly. Here are some considerations when recovering from breast augmentation surgery.
Submuscular vs. Subglandular Placement Recovery Timeline
In general, patients who have their implants placed over the muscle (subglandular placement) will recover quicker than patients whose implants are placed under the muscle (submuscular).
Take It Easy
Though this will vary by patient, most patients need to take three to five days off of work to recover, get plenty of rest and wean themselves off of the pain medication. Do not drive while taking pain medicine. Also, avoid any strenuous physical activity for several weeks aftersurgery.
Pain, Swelling and Bruising
Because of the nature of the surgery, breast augmentation patients can expect some post-operative bruising, swelling and discomfort, which can be treated with prescription pain medication and ice packs. Wearing the supportive bra or garments provided by Dr. Greenwald will help with the swelling.
Lifting and Exercise
Avoid lifting anything more than a few pounds for up to 10 days after surgery. After that, check with Dr. Greenwald to determine whether it is safe to lift something (including small children). Light exercise (e.g., leg weights and walking) is recommended several days after surgery. Patients who have had implants placed under the muscle should avoid the gym and aerobic activity for four to six weeks.
Communicate with Your Surgeon
Dr. Greenwald will be in close communication with you following breast augmentation surgery. You’ll return for follow-up appointments so he can check your incisions and the overall healing process. These follow-up appointments are a great time to ask questions, but if you forget something, he is always just a phone call away. Dr. Greenwald and his staff are happy to answer your questions and make suggestions for a quick and easy recuperation.
The Results
It will take several months for the swelling to completely dissipate, your breasts to fully settle into place and the final results to reveal themselves. The scars will take anywhere from six months to over a year to fade.
If you would like to speak with Dr. Greenwald about recovering from breast augmentation, or you are considering having implants placed and you’d like to schedule a consultation, please contact our practice today.
Dr. Joshua Greenwald is a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City who studied and trained at prestigious educational institutions including Columbia University, Emory University, and New York University School of Medicine. His keen aesthetic eye and refined surgical techniques have led him to be a top choice for cosmetic face, breast, and body procedures in NYC. His exceptional patient care has earned him the distinction of “Top Doc” by both Westchester Magazine and Castle & Connolly for over 10 years running. Dr. Greenwald is an active member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Medical Association, and the Westchester County Medical Society.