A breast augmentation procedure can dramatically change your appearance and improve your quality of life. While you may be impatient to enjoy your final results, be prepared to take some time after the surgery to focus on supporting your body’s healing process.
At Specialists in Plastic Surgery, PA, we walk you through every step of the breast augmentation process, from your initial consultation through resuming your normal activities. Following our surgeon’s recommendations for recovery is key for a smooth transition from the procedure to living your best life as the new and enhanced you.
Embrace your Recovery
Healing is an extremely important part of the breast augmentation process. After having the procedure, the last thing you want to do is rush back to your normal activities and put your health and results in jeopardy.
Instead, welcome your days of rest as an opportunity to focus on caring for yourself. Too often, we hurry from one task or obligation to the next and don’t take the time to check in with ourselves, treat ourselves, or simply relax. Rather than looking at your post-operative activity limitations as restrictive, embrace your recovery as designated you-time.
Arrange for Assistance
Knowing that you’ll have several days of downtime allows you to make arrangements in advance for the assistance you will need. Make a list of the tasks you do on a daily and weekly basis. For instance:
- Childcare
- Pet care
- Cooking
- Cleaning
- Laundry
- Grocery shopping
Once you have your list complete, coordinate with friends, loved ones, a nanny, or other parties who will agree to step in while you are healing.
Prepare your Recovery Station
To get the best results in the shortest amount of time, you need to kick back and relax. This means you need a cozy, comfortable spot with your basic necessities within reach.
- Set up your recovery spot with plenty of pillows, so you can prop yourself up to minimize swelling.
- Gather items you use day-to-day such as lip balm, lotion, tissues, tablet, charger, and anything else you can think of.
Know What to Expect
Our surgeons provide complete recovery instructions and will check in with you as you heal. In general, you will likely have some bruising and swelling, which is normal as the body implements its healing protocols. You may have surgical dressings that need to be changed, and you will need to wear a special bra for a few weeks after your breast augmentation procedure. Take care to protect your breasts from impact and from the sun for a few months.
As your progress is monitored, you will be cleared incrementally for increased activity. Plan to take three to five days off work and four to six weeks off from strenuous physical activity.
Stock your Fridge and Freezer
Proper nutrition is especially important while you recover. Cook and freeze portions of healthy dishes for easy and delicious meals. Alternatively, purchase pre-made meals from the grocery store.
Save some room for ice packs in your freezer. Your surgeon may recommend icing your breasts intermittently for the first 48 hours after treatment.
Work Ahead
Before your procedure, do what you can to get ahead on work tasks. You will need to take some time off from work, so the more you can get organized and accomplished before surgery, the less stress you will have while recovering. Most patients can return to work on light-duty within five days.
Get ahead on chores at home, as well. Make sure you’re caught up on laundry and have plenty of comfortable clothes available. Vacuum, do dishes, and dust so you aren’t bothered by unfinished chores while you heal.
Call Us at Any Stage of Your Breast Augmentation Process
The Specialists in in Plastic Surgery, PA team is here for you every step of the way. We would much rather have you ask questions than to risk your health and beautiful results.
Whether you have questions during your recovery or are just starting your breast augmentation journey and want to schedule a consultation, call us at 919-785-0505. We proudly serve Raleigh and the surrounding areas of North Carolina.