5 Stages of Healing After a Breast Augmentation

One of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed in the U.S. is breast augmentation. Hundreds of thousands of patients experience the benefits associated with it each year. The stigma around the procedure is diminishing, which is why more women are choosing to get it. 

Do you want to experience the life-changing benefits of an improved body shape? If so, breast enhancement surgery might be the perfect solution. Most patients report higher levels of happiness and self-confidence following breast augmentation procedures. 

What Is Breast Augmentation?

This cosmetic procedure aims to change breast shape, size, or appearance. During the procedure, cosmetic surgeons place breast implants under the patient’s breast tissue or chest muscles. For most patients, breast enhancement is a way to feel more self-confident. For others, it is a way to rebuild the breast to address various conditions. 

Talk to a board-certified cosmetic surgeon if you are considering getting a boob job. Ensure you understand what the procedure involves, including the possible risks, different stages of healing, and follow-up care.

Stages of Healing

Augmentation mammoplasty is a major surgical procedure with a significant recovery period. Hence, you should understand the different stages of healing and what to expect during each phase. The road to recovery involves the following:

• Surgery Day

Patients undergo breast augmentation surgery on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia—it does not require hospital admission. You can go home once the lingering effects of anesthesia subside. However, you should arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home. Ask someone to keep you company for the rest of the day if you require assistance.

Expect minimal pain and inflammation during this stage. However, you may experience drowsiness and confusion from the after-effects of anesthesia. For the best recovery, you need to rest, stay comfortable, and have healthy, pre-made food available. That will save you from having to prepare meals the first day. 

Finally, drink lots of water to stay hydrated and ensure your bed is comfortable by adding pillows. That will minimize pain when you change your posture. If you experience post-op pain during this stage, you can take your prescription medications or OTC pain medications. 

• First Week After Surgery

You will be most uncomfortable during this stage as your body becomes used to the implants and healing breast tissue. You will likely experience inflammation, redness, and pain. Arrange for someone to help you with daily chores and avoid doing any strenuous exercises. 

• One to Three Weeks After Surgery

By this stage, your pain and swelling will begin to subside. That will make it possible to resume your normal life functions, such as your job. Still, it would help if you refrained from engaging in strenuous activities or lifting heavy objects.

• Four to Six Weeks After Surgery

During this period, your breast tissue is healed enough for you to perform some strenuous activities safely. However, it would help if you waited until the sixth or seventh week to resume activities like lifting weights and intense cardio. By this time, there is little or no pain and inflammation around the breast tissue. 

• Final Results

In about four to five months, you will be able to see the results of your breast augmentation procedure. It takes this amount of time for the breast implants to settle well into their position. However, most cosmetic surgeons recommend waiting until the end of the sixth month to purchase new bras.

Conclusion

Healing after breast augmentation surgery can take months. Following the procedure, you will notice an immediate change. However, your breast tissue will continue changing size and shape for up to six weeks before settling into the final shape by the sixth month. Thus, you should be patient as you wait for the results.

To learn more about breast augmentation surgery, call Kenneth Bermudez, MD, at (415) 712-1800 to reach our office in San Francisco, California.