Breast augmentation surgery allows women to achieve the breast size and shape they have desired or reconstruct the breasts following breast removal surgery. While advancements in surgical techniques and smaller incisions have helped to speed surgical recovery time, breast augmentation recovery takes time and careful attention to a physician's instructions.
Physician Consultation
Before undergoing breast surgery, it's important to discuss postimplant surgery beyond the ultimate results of your augmentation, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Ask your doctor about surgical risks, including reactions to anesthesia, infection, changes in breast sensation and length of recovery time. Continue to ask questions until you feel you have the full picture of the recovery period. This will allow you to make necessary preparations, such as finding someone to drive you home after the surgery and taking enough time away from work.
Immediately Postsurgery
Immediately after surgery, you should restrict movements, particularly lifting, bending and straining, as these can place added stress on the breast tissue, according to Doc Shop, a plastic surgery resource. You should rest as often as possible to allow the body time to heal. You may experience soreness, pain and general feelings of discomfort. At this time, you will transition from gauze dressing to a surgical bra that provides compression to reduce swelling.
Medications
The medications your surgeon prescribes often depend upon the surgical approach and your overall health. Your surgeon will likely prescribe a narcotic medication to reduce pain, which should be taken as directed, according to Dr. Jean Loftus, a plastic surgeon writing on Info Plastic Surgery. Your physician also may prescribe a muscle relaxant to help to reduce muscle tightness and discomfort. If you experience postanesthesia nausea, your physician may also prescribe an antinausea medication.
Resuming Activities
Because rest is an important part of your recovery process, you will be expected to limit some activities for some time. If you do not perform strenuous activity as a profession, you may be able to return to work anywhere from four days to one week after your surgery, according to Dr. Tom J. Pousti, a San Diego, California-based plastic surgeon on Real Self. You also should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise anywhere from a month to six weeks after surgery. You may be able to perform low-impact movements, such as walking.
Warning
While your doctor will schedule one to two follow-up appointments to examine your incisions and healing process, there are certain incidences where you should seek medical treatment, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. These include bleeding, pus coming from the surgical incision, implant rupture, persistent pain, fever or heat and swelling at the surgical site several weeks past surgery. These can indicate the presence of infection and require medical treatment.
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