Whatever your reason for considering breast augmentation surgery, it is a big step to take. There are many factors to consider and breast augmentation like any surgery, does carry some degree of risk. This article looks at the recovery period after breast augmentation, and the things you can do to help speed recovery and get back on your feet after the surgery.

After the surgery

Breast augmentation takes about 1 hour, but you will need to stay at the hospital or day surgery for a few hours after you have woken up to recover from the effects of the anaesthetic. The incisions from your surgery will have a waterproof dressing so you can shower and you will be wearing a compression garment to support your new breasts while they heal. You will wear these support garments continually for up to 4 weeks after surgery. You won't be able to drive after the anaesthetic, so arrange for someone to take you home.

At home

Your surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for yourself in first few days after the surgery. You should follow them carefully to get the best results from the procedure. If you think you will need it, discuss options for pain management medication with your surgeon beforehand so you can have it at home ready to go. Keep in mind that you won't be able to drive while taking some of the stronger pain medications.

It is also a really good idea to have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours after your surgery, or at least have someone you can call in case of emergency.

What can I do to help speed recovery?

There are some things you can do to help speed your recovery:

1. Get lots of rest and sleep
2. Don't remove your bandages until you have been given the all-clear by the surgeon to minimise the risk of infection
3. Follow the swelling and scar management strategies provided by your surgeon

Call your surgeon immediately if you develop a temperature, you are bleeding enough to soak through the bandages, you experience pain that can’t be controlled by medication or your breasts are red. These are signs of infection and need to be treated immediately.

Recovery Time

Your breasts will be a bit bruised and sore for the first 3-5 days after your surgery, but will improve in the 5-10 days post-surgery. If possible, take 1-2 weeks off work after your augmentation surgery to give your body time to heal. You should be able to go back to your normal routine approximately 2 weeks after breast augmentation surgery and gentle exercise can resume after 3 to 4 weeks.

All surgery carries some risks or potential for complications, but these risks can be minimised if you are in good general health, with no pre-existing medical conditions and you follow your surgeon's pre and post-operative instructions. The best way to reduce the risk of complications is to choose an experienced surgeon who has performed lots of breast augmentation procedures, who can guide you through all the steps and help you get great results from your surgery.

Next Step

If you are considering breast augmentation surgery and have questions you would like to ask, or if you would like to book a confidential consultation at a cost of $140, click below or call (03) 9088 5000 for the Melbourne practice or (07) 3180 3400 for the Brisbane practice. The Cosmetic Surgery Co-ordinators of NorthEast Plastic Surgery will organise a consultation with Mr Tansley or Dr Seneviratne who are highly qualified and experienced surgeons. They will assess your individual requirements and discuss your preferences in regard to breast augmentation surgery.