Over the years, breast augmentation cosmetic surgery procedure has become less invasive and less painful due to improved surgical techniques. But it continues to have a significant recovery component to ensure safe and desirable outcomes. The surgeon will provide detailed instructions to the patient for recovery, which should be followed carefully.
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Amir Nasir provides breast augmentation and other cosmetic and reconstructive procedures to patients in New Haven, Westport, CT, and surrounding communities. Dr. Nasir and his team will help the patient prepare well for a smoother and faster recovery.
Expected Downtime
Following breast augmentation plastic surgery, the patient should expect to be confined to home for about one week. For the first three days, the patient should take plenty of rest, but may perform short walks at home. For the rest of the week, she may perform mild household activities, which should not strain the incision areas.
The exact downtime and overall recovery period will vary from one patient to another, depending on the size of implants, placement of implants above or below the pectoral muscle, the skill of the operating surgeon, and the patient’s natural ability to heal. Most patients will be able to resume their normal routine or go to work in about 10 to 14 days. However, strenuous exercises and heavy lifting of weights should be avoided for about a month.
Post-Surgical Garments
A surgical bra will be provided by the surgeon, especially in case of submuscular implant placement. This bra must be worn at all times for a few weeks, except when bathing. In case of subglandular implant placement, the patient may only require a normal bra without underwire because the incisions will be smaller in this case and healing will be faster.
A surgical bra or a wrap-style bandage helps to harmonize the implant with the breast tissue and muscle. Until the healing is completed, the patient can use this bra to allow the breasts to acquire their full natural shape. Experienced cosmetic surgeon Dr. Nasir receives patients from New Haven, Westport, CT, and nearby areas for breast augmentation.
No Smoking during Recovery
Post-operative healing and smoking do not mix. The nicotine content in tobacco can cause the blood vessels to shrink, resulting in lowering of the blood oxygen levels. This will obstruct the function of red blood cells, slowing down the recovery and increasing the risk of complications.
Prescription Pain Meds
The surgeon will usually prescribe mild pain medications in the first week after breast augmentation to help the patient manage post-operative pain and discomfort. Driving and other activities requiring alertness should be avoided while the patient is on pain medications.
Follow-up Appointments
The surgeon may call the patient a day after the surgery for removing the bandages and replacing them with a surgical bra. However, some surgeons may only call the patient for the first post-op appointment at the end of the first week. The sutures and drain tubes may be removed at this time. Some surgeons may also advise a breast implant exercise regimen at this point to improve the surgical outcome.
To learn more about plastic surgery procedures and non-invasive treatments performed by Dr. Nasir at Lotus Cosmetic Surgery Connecticut click here to contact us or call (203) 221-1919.
Dr. Nasir is a Cosmetic Surgeon in Fairfield County serving the towns of Westport and Fairfield locally as well as surrounding communities. We also serve patients from all over Connecticut, regionally, including many from New York City, as as well as international patients.
