Do’s and Don'ts After Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation surgery is a popular cosmetic surgery that many women undergo to enhance the appearance of their breasts and self-confidence. The procedure is rather simple and safe, but for the best outcomes and a seamless recovery, appropriate post-surgery care and follow-up are essential. Like any other type of surgery, adequate recovery time is essential to allow the body to recuperate. There may be soreness, bruising, and swelling around the chest throughout this healing period. Skin and breast inflammation is a normal healing reaction to the surgery.

There are a few crucial things to do (as well as certain things you should avoid) during your breast augmentation recovery in order to maximize the outcome and speed up the healing process. Take a look at some of our best recommendations for dos and don'ts after breast augmentation surgery.

Do’s After Breast Augmentation

Following surgery, your body will begin to heal. Especially in the first two weeks after surgery, you will need to take it easy. There are a lot of guidelines you should adhere to in order to facilitate your body's healing process during this period. Listed below are some things you should do following your breast reduction surgery: 

1. Follow your Plastic Surgeon’s Instructions: Your plastic surgeon will provide you with detailed postoperative restrictions after breast augmentation tailored to your specific needs. It's essential to follow these instructions diligently to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. Feel free to ask your plastic surgeon any questions you may have concerning the recovery process.
2. Take a Healthy Diet: It's crucial to provide your body with the nutrition it requires for promoting tissue repair and healing after surgery. It won't help you recover and feel normal if you feed yourself with junk food and empty calories. Opt for foods that are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to support your body's recovery process. Make an effort to consume lots of nutritious grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats.
3. Get Lots of Rest: It will take some time for your body to recover from an extensive procedure like breast augmentation. Rest is crucial for allowing your body to recover effectively after surgery. For patients with breast implants, it is advisable to take it easy and relax in bed. Do not move vigorously and only get up when necessary. Avoid strenuous activities and get plenty of sleep to help your body heal faster.
4. Sleep on Your Back: Your implants will still be gradually settling in after breast augmentation surgery. The results may be compromised if you lie on your stomach since it may change where those implants end up. For six to eight weeks, sleep on your back. In order to prevent water retention from building up in your breasts during the first few weeks, you should elevate yourself using a wedge pillow.
5. Wear a Post-op Surgery Bra: Following surgery, you may be given a special support bra to keep on around the clock while recovering. Wearing a supportive bra following breast augmentation surgery is essential for providing proper support to your newly augmented breasts and promoting healing. Follow your surgeon's recommendations regarding the type of bra to wear and how long to wear it. If your surgeon advises, wear it for the entire duration. Take it off just to shower. (A surgeon may occasionally advise you to use a standard sports bra.)
6. Have Some Help at Home: Arrange for someone to assist you with daily tasks and chores during the initial days of recovery. Having support at home will allow you to rest and focus on your recovery without overexerting yourself.
7. Take Time Off Work: Depending on the nature of your job and the extent of your surgery, you may need to take time off work to ensure a smooth recovery. If at all possible, try taking a week off from work. Follow your surgeon's recommendations regarding the duration of your rest period before returning to work.
8. Give Your Breasts a Regular Massage: Getting a breast massage is also crucial to your healing process. This will encourage healthy blood flow and lessen localized swelling. This will encourage healthy blood flow and assist in the area's reduction of swelling. The ideal way to massage and the frequency of massages should be discussed with your surgeon. 

Don'ts After Breast Augmentation

Now that you understand the need of taking care of your body while recovering, it's a good idea to be aware of the activities that can prolong your recuperation period. Here are some of the most crucial things to avoid after breast augmentation:

1. Do Not Smoke: Products containing tobacco may hinder your body's natural healing process, delaying the healing process after breast augmentation. It's crucial to refrain from smoking or using any tobacco products both before and after surgery. Before having a breast augmentation, it is advisable for patients to stop smoking or using tobacco products for at least two months. After that, they should continue to abstain from tobacco use for at least one month.
2. Do Not Sleep on Your Stomach: Sleeping on your stomach can put pressure on your newly augmented breasts, potentially causing discomfort and affecting the healing process. Instead, sleep on your back or side with the support of pillows to keep your upper body elevated.
3. Don’t Shower for a Few Days: You should wait at least two days after obtaining breast implants before taking a shower or washing your breasts. Only then may you carefully wash your breasts without irritating the regions that have been treated. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on when it's safe to resume showering and how to care for your incisions properly.
4. Don’t Take Pain Medications or Other Drugs Unless Prescribed: You should take medication with extra caution throughout the healing period, which might last one to two weeks. Only take medications prescribed by your surgeon for pain management or any other specific instructions. Avoid self-medicating with over-the-counter drugs without consulting your surgeon first. If you think you should take any medication, talk to your doctor in advance. Ask your doctor to write you a prescription for the right pain reliever if you are experiencing excruciating pain.
5. Don’t Exercise for a While: Strenuous physical activity should be avoided for several weeks following breast augmentation surgery. During this time, you can only go on walks. Engaging in exercise too soon can strain your healing tissues and affect your results. Try lower body exercises first, then work your way up to upper body activities after a month. Follow your surgeon's recommendations regarding the gradual reintroduction of exercise into your routine.
6. Don’t Lift Heavy Objects: During your recovery period, you should refrain from engaging in regular physical activity, lifting your kids, or carrying heavy objects around the house. Refrain from engaging in activities that require significant upper body strength during the initial stages of recovery. Doing so can strain your chest muscles and increase the risk of complications.
7. Avoid Wearing Underwired Bras: Stay away from underwire bras since they might cause irritation at the site of your incision and affect the placement of your implants. The patient should wait at least six weeks before returning to using regular bras.

Conclusion

It's crucial to understand the dos and don'ts after breast augmentation, especially what not to do after breast implant surgery to guarantee a quick recovery and the best possible outcomes. You may reduce the chance of complications and get the results you want from your surgery by following your plastic surgeon's recommendations, leading a healthy lifestyle, and abstaining from specific hobbies and behaviors. Prioritize self-care to speed up your body's healing process and don't hesitate to speak with your surgeon if you have any questions or concerns during your recovery from the procedure.