What’s the Recovery Time for a Breast Augmentation?

Posted on May 12, 2016 by: Dr. Rocheford

Undergoing a breast augmentation can be a great decision for women who feel uncomfortable with the size and/or shape of their bust line. For these women, getting their breasts enhanced can lift their self-confidence, as well as address any breast issues associated with aging, pregnancy, or even genetics.

If the above sounds familiar, you might be considering a breast augmentation of your own. But before you go under the knife, take a look at what you can expect from the breast augmentation recovery process:

• Take About One Week Off: It’s important for patients to plan to take one week off from work immediately after the breast augmentation procedure. Your plastic surgeon will advise you not to lift objects or engage in strenuous exercise, as this could impact the healing process.

• You also may be pretty uncomfortable for the first week after breast augmentation, and most patients require some sort of pain medication for the first 3-4 days. During this period you just want to make sure you don’t push yourself before you’re ready. That said, some women recover more quickly so it’s important to communicate your progress with your plastic surgeon.

• No Exercise for Two Weeks: Whether you love running or going spinning, you’ll need to put your activity on hold for a minimum of two weeks. Strenuous activity could put pressure on your newly healing breasts – and that could spell disaster for your stitches. Get the OK from your plastic surgeon before you start a new workout plan, and after two weeks gradually increase your level of activity.

• Wait for the Six-Week Mark: Keep in mind that during your breast augmentation recovery, you’re going to experience discomfort, swelling and possibly some bruising. In fact, your implants won’t “drop” into their final position until about six weeks after the procedure. At this point, you’ll have a follow-up appointment with your plastic surgeon to ensure your new breasts match your expectations.

Want to know more about what you can expect from your breast augmentation recovery? Schedule a consultation with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Heather Rocheford at Rocheford Plastic Surgery in Woodbury, MN.

Rocheford Plastic Surgery serves the greater St. Paul and Minneapolis metro areas.