Breast Augmentation Recovery_ Tips and What to Expect

Breast Augmentation Recovery_ Tips and What to Expect, updated 2/5/24, 2:38 PM

Choosing the best surgeon and surgical facility for your breast augmentation in Bellevue should be your top priority.

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Breast Augmentation Recovery: Tips And What To Expect
Undergoing cosmetic surgery requires making big decisions and processing lots of new
information. Choosing the best surgeon and surgical facility for your breast augmentation in
Bellevue should be your top priority. The right doctor will be instrumental in walking you
through the process and decisions that are part of breast augmentation.
Some patients tend to underestimate the recovery period of breast augmentation. Individuals heal
at a unique pace, meaning recovery can look different for each patient. So, how does a typical
recovery progress, and what are some helpful tips to make it a smoother experience?
Breast Augmentation: The Procedure
Surgeons perform breast augmentation in Bellevue using various methods of implant and
incision placements. The surgeon will discuss these options with a patient at consultation
appointments before surgery.
To begin the procedure, the surgeon will make the incisions either in the fold where the chest and
breasts meet, at the base of the areola, under the arm, or (less commonly) near the naval.
The surgeon will then place the implants through these incisions. The implants can go over or
under the chest muscles. If necessary, the surgeon will fill the implants at this point. Once they
have checked the implants to ensure proper placement, the surgeon will close the incisions with
sutures.
Breast Augmentation: The Recovery
Pain is an inevitable part of surgical recovery. Patients tend to describe their pain after breast
augmentation as soreness or achiness. Some say it feels as though they are recovering from a
high-intensity workout. Sharp pain is also possible near the incisions during the first several
days. Pressure and tightness of muscles can be uncomfortable, especially for patients who have
opted for implants under their chest muscles. The surgeon will prescribe medication to keep
patients comfortable during recovery.
While unpleasant for any time, the pain, pressure, or tightness you may experience will peak
during the first five days after surgery before slowly improving. After a week or two, most
patients can switch to over-the-counter pain medications as needed.
After three or four weeks, a patient should be able to return to most daily activities. Knowing
your limitations and avoiding strenuous chest exercises and heavy lifting should help speed up
your recovery. Most patients will experience complete recovery in eight weeks, though this
period may vary.
Tips For A Smoother Recovery
● Rest: Yes, the most basic instruction is one of the most beneficial to your recovery.
Taking a week off work–three weeks if your job is physically demanding–is essential to
allow your body to heal. During this time, take naps, sit when you feel tired, and pamper
yourself by relaxing when you feel like it.
● Pain Management: Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication after your surgery.
Once your pain is manageable, you may switch to over-the-counter medicines
recommended by your surgeon. These medications will help you heal and remain
comfortable throughout your recovery.

Ice: Swelling and bruising are likely to occur after surgery. Your surgeon will
recommend icing the surgical area to limit these issues and speed healing.
● Compression Band/Bra: A compression band can help reduce swelling. Most surgeons
recommend patients wear these immediately after surgery. Your surgeon may encourage
you to wear the band for at least one to three weeks. After this time, you may wear a
garment that offers support, such as a sports bra.

Incision Care: Properly cleaning and bandaging your incisions can avoid infections and
issues with irritation.
● Massages: Some surgeons will recommend seeing an esthetician for massages during
recovery from breast augmentation. These massages can help alleviate swelling and
increase healing.
● Lifting: Avoid lifting anything heavy for the first four weeks after surgery, longer if
recommended by your surgeon. Lifting your arms above shoulder level is also
discouraged for the first week or two after surgery.
● Exercise: Believe it or not, light activity is also important to the healing process. While
you shouldn’t over-exert yourself, getting up and walking around the house every few
hours is highly recommended and beneficial to your recovery.
The Gallery Of Cosmetic Surgery
If you’re searching for breast augmentation in Bellevue, Washington, the Gallery of Cosmetic
Surgery can help. Our skilled and knowledgeable surgical team is ready to guide you on your
aesthetic journey. Call us at (425) 775-3561 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jonov, or check
out our price simulator for more information.