At our practice, we want every patient to be informed about and comfortable with the procedures they pursue. While many women have heard that augmentation leads to a long and painful recovery, that’s not the case.
Along with researching Breast Augmentation Surgery online, it’s important to discuss your concerns with the surgeon. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each stage of recovery so you’ll know what to expect.
Table of Contents
Immediately After the Procedure
Because breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure, you’ll go home the same day. While most procedures are done in outpatient facilities, patients with medical conditions may elect to have the procedure done in a hospital. Augmentations are done under general anesthesia, which is given by a certified anesthesiologist.
Although the surgery itself takes approximately an hour, expect to remain in the facility for at least three hours on the day of the procedure. The timeframe includes pre-op check-in, preparation, and post-procedural recovery. It’s common to feel groggy after the surgery, but the feeling will dissipate after a few hours. We require that someone drive you home and remain with you for a full 24 hours after the surgery.
The First 48 Hours After Surgery
Thankfully, the recovery time for a breast augmentation is relatively short. Most women can go back to work and resume normal activities within three days. Recovery times vary from one patient to another, however, and they depend on implant placement, the surgical plan, and previous activity levels.
Post-Procedural Recommendations for Augmentation Patients
One to two days after a successful augmentation, patients must return to the office for a follow-up visit. You’ll wear a compression bra for four weeks after the operation, and it’s best to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise during that time. Incisions are stitched up with dissolving sutures, and they’re covered with dressings that must stay in place for two weeks. While it’s okay to shower the day after surgery, we recommend avoiding complete submersion of the treated area until the incisions are healed. Don’t go into a pool, a hot tub, or the ocean for at least four weeks.
The Next Week: Healing Continues
Like all other surgical procedures, a full recovery may take weeks, but most women can resume normal activity after 48 hours. Though the first several days after surgery may be somewhat uncomfortable, the pain can be managed easily with over-the-counter and prescription medications. Staying well-rested, fed, and hydrated is an important part of the post-procedural healing process, as it gives the body what it needs to repair and rebuild damaged tissues.
Cosmetic Surgery in Columbus, Ohio
With augmentation, women can boost their self-confidence and improve their outward appearance. Don’t let misconceptions about the procedure and its recovery period dissuade you! With proper care, patience, and post-surgical hydration, nourishment, and rest, it’s possible to enjoy a minimally uncomfortable recovery. To learn more about breast augmentation, visit our practice online or call to schedule a no-obligation consultation with a licensed cosmetic surgeon in Columbus.
