If you’re thinking about having a breast augmentation or you’ve just had one, you might be wondering about what the recovery process is like. We’ve put together some information and a timeline that can help you plan for your recovery and feel confident about what to expect.
How long will the downtime be?
Downtime after breast augmentation is generally 1-2 weeks. After your period of downtime, you can expect to return to many of your usual activities, but you’ll need to take it easy for the next month or so.
- Your downtime timeline after breast augmentation
Day of your breast augmentation surgery
You can return home with a friend or family member after your surgery. A compression bandage will be placed around your breasts and chest. This compression garment supports and protects your new breast contour to help you heal properly and minimize swelling.
1-4 days after your breast augmentation surgery
In the next few days that follow your surgery, we recommend that you have someone stay with you to help with basic chores and heavy lifting. You will not be able to raise your arms over your head, bend or lean over, or lift anything that weighs more than five pounds. Give yourself plenty of time to rest. Sleep on your back to keep the pressure off your breasts. Swelling and soreness can be managed with the medications we provide.
One week after breast augmentation surgery
You will be able to get around more easily and feel more comfortable with lighter daily activities. Many women are able to return to some sedentary work at home after about a week. However, it is important not to lift anything more than five pounds and to avoid physical activity.
Two weeks after breast augmentation surgery
During this week, swelling and discomfort will be reducing, and you will be able to return
to a sedentary job and many of your usual light activities. Continue to take it easy, and don’t overdo it.
What will recovery be like after the downtime period is complete?
After your downtime period is over and you’re back to some of your usual activities, the recovery period still lasts for about 2-4 more weeks.
- Your recovery timeline after breast augmentation
Week 3
Week 3 is similar to week 2, but you’ll be feeling less tired and generally more comfortable. The swelling will continue to go down as your breasts heal.
Week 4
You will feel better and more like yourself this week, with the swelling significantly reduced. Some women are healed enough by the fourth week that they can resume exercise again. Just be sure that you don’t exercise or exert yourself without getting an okay from your doctor. Around this time, you will be able to take a bath or be in the pool again with an okay from the doctor.
Week 5-6
In weeks 5 or 6, you will be considered more fully healed. During these weeks, you will get the go-ahead to return to exercise and strenuous activities. At this time, you can wear an underwire bra again.
Recovery during the following weeks or months
Even once you’re feeling back to normal and are able to exercise again and resume all of your usual activities, your body and breasts are still healing. Less noticeable swelling continues to slowly subside over the next weeks or months. Your breast implants are still affected by this minimal swelling, and over the next few months, the implants will have settled into their final position.
Breast Augmentation at The Rose Clinic
At The Rose Clinic, Dr. Kevin Rose focuses on creating beautiful, aesthetically pleasing results that are natural-looking and customized for your exact needs. With his team of experienced, highly-trained healthcare professionals, Dr. Rose creates an exceptional aesthetic experience for patients, dedicating himself to their needs from the first consultation until they are fully healed and thrilled with the outcome. Please call today to find out more about your breast augmentation with Dr. Rose.