Breast Augmentation Recovery Time

A breast augmentation is typically performed if you wish to enlarge your breast size. However, this procedure can also balance unevenly shaped breasts or be combined with a breast lift.

If you have undergone a breast augmentation, your recovery period will depend largely on the placement of your breast implant. Dr. Leo Lapuerta prefers to make an incision underneath your breast and place the implant behind your pectoral muscle. However, the implant can also be placed directly underneath your existing breast tissue.

Here are some things to expect during your recovery:

The First and Second Day after Surgery

The day after your breast augmentation procedure, you will be sore and fatigued. You should apply ice packs to the chest area and do nothing but rest during the first 48 hours. If your implant is placed under your muscle, your recovery period may be longer because more incisions are required during the surgery. If your breast implants are placed over the muscle, you will heal faster and may return to work in as little as three days, providing your job is not strenuous. Several days after your procedure, your gauze dressings will be removed and you can switch to a surgical bra.

The Week after Surgery

The week after your breast augmentation, you can expect swelling, bruising, and breast pain. Most pain can be controlled with medication. It is a good idea to have a friend or family member around to help you because your movement will be limited during the first week. If you have stitches that must be taken out, they are often removed after one week.
You should sleep in an upright position and avoid sleeping on your stomach for at least the first two weeks after your breast augmentation. Continue wearing a support bra or compression garment, as this will help:

• Improve your blood circulation
• Reduce swelling
• Keep your implants in their correct position
• Expedite the healing process

All of which will contribute to you getting the results you desire from your breast augmentation.

The Second to Fifth Weeks after Surgery

For the first several weeks of your recovery, your breasts will be sensitive. They may remain swollen for a month or longer. Refrain from physical contact until your sensitivity has subsided, as this could lead to an injury that prolongs your recovery. Wait at least four weeks until resuming exercise and other strenuous activities.

Several Months after Surgery

It will take a good few months until you heal completely and your final results are visible. This can be frustrating, but be careful not to rush the healing process. This can injure your breasts, alter their appearance and require an even longer recovery period.

For more information, see Breast Augmentation Recovery Time and Health.

If you live in the Houston, Texas area and want to learn more about breast augmentation, please contact board-certified Houston plastic surgeon Dr. Lapuerta for more information or to schedule a consultation.