Individual recovery experiences may vary, based on your body's unique healing processes and speed. Nevertheless, it's essential to follow your surgeon's postoperative instructions for the best possible outcome in ensuring an efficient recovery and to minimize and augmentation and breast lift scars.
Always consult with your plastic surgeon regarding any questions or concerns throughout the recovery process. Below is an approximate timeline for a breast lift and augmentation recovery that a majority of patients will experience.
Days 1–3: Immediate Postoperative Period. Immediately following your breast lift and implant procedures, you'll likely spend several hours after surgery in the recovery room under medical supervision. Once stable, you'll be discharged and allowed to go home.
Generally, it is recommended you have another adult around for the first night to assist if needed. You'll need to focus on rest, hydration, and pain management as instructed by your surgeon. If pain is causing discomfort, your surgeon can prescribe you medication to help, particularly in the acute recovery period after the operations. Take prescribed pain medications and antibiotics as directed to manage discomfort and prevent infection. Avoid physical activity and driving for the first three days following your operation.
Days 3-7: Acute Healing Phase. Follow postoperative instructions provided by your surgeon, including wound care and medication schedules. That will likely include wearing supportive bras or compression garments as advised to minimize swelling and provide comfort.
Self-monitor incision sites for signs of infection, excessive swelling, or other complications. Report any concerns to your surgeon. Around this time, you can begin to incorporate gentle movements, such as short walks around the house to promote circulation and prevent blood clots.
Week 2 (Day 8–15): Early Recovery Phase. During the second week, you'll most likely attend a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to assess healing progress, remove any dressings or drains, and address any concerns you may have.
As long as healing is going as expected, you may gradually increase activity levels, including light household chores and short walks. However, rigorous exercise and lifting should still be avoided during this time.
Follow your surgeon's instructions for post breast lift and implant scar care, which generally consists of gentle cleansing and application of recommended ointments or dressings. Lean on your support system for assistance with daily activities and emotional support during the recovery process.
Bliss Aesthetics includes post-operative support, so your Bliss Patient Consultant is a resource for you at any time during your recovery process in addition to your personal support network and surgeon.
Weeks 3–4: Mid-Recovery Phase. For the most part, swelling should have subsided and incision sites will securely closed with visible scars beginning the full healing and fading process. During this period, continue to increase mobility and activity levels gradually, while still avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercise. Incorporate scar massage techniques as advised by your surgeon to promote softening and fading of breast lift scars.
Consider getting fitted for supportive bras that provide comfort and proper support for your healing breasts. You will likely have another follow-up appointment with your surgeon to assess your breast lift and augmentation recover progress, address any remaining concerns, and receive guidance on further recovery steps.
- Return to Work: Depending on the nature of your job, you may be able to return to work on a limited basis with your surgeon's approval.
Weeks 5-6: Late Recovery Phase. Gradually resume more normal activities and exercises, including low-impact workouts and recreational activities, while still avoiding high-impact activities and heavy lifting. You should notice further improvement in breast lift scar appearance as healing progresses, though scars may still be pink or red in color in this stage. You'll begin to appreciate the final results of your breast lift and augmentation surgery as swelling continues to subside and tissues settle into place.
Continue to follow your surgeon's instructions for scar management, activity restrictions, and long-term breast health maintenance.
Beyond Week 6: Long-Term Maintenance.- Long-Term Follow-Up: Maintain regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon as needed to monitor your breast health and ensure long-term satisfaction with your surgical results.
- Breast Lift and Augmentation Scar Management: Continue scar care as recommended by your surgeon to optimize scar appearance and minimize visibility over time.
- Lifestyle Considerations: Adopt a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoidance of smoking and excessive sun exposure, to support overall well-being and preserve surgical results.