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Our Top Breast Augmentation Recovery Tips
Breast augmentations rank at the very top in terms of cosmetic surgery procedures that are most popular. If you are interested in getting this procedure done, it’s important to know what to expect and to carefully follow the doctor’s tips. Among those tips are those that can aid in your smooth recovery. Here is what you should do after your breast augmentation.
Get a Ride from and Stay with Someone Trustworthy
You should have someone close to you in tow to give you a ride home or stay with them at their home for at least 24 hours after your surgery. Breast augmentation surgery requires downtime while you recover, which means it’s beneficial to have someone you trust to stay with you and help you with tasks at home for 24 to 48 hours after your surgery.
Eat Before Taking Pain Medication
Always eat at least small meals or things like toast or crackers before you take your pain medication. This helps to stave off nausea. You may want to have a few meals pre-prepared prior to your surgery as well.
Sleep on Your Back or Side
If you’re a stomach sleeper, you should skip that after your breast augmentation surgery. Instead, sleep on your back or side. If it’s more comfortable for you, you can even sleep while reclining, such as upright on your couch, in a plush chair, or with a few pillows propping you up in bed.
Add More Foods When Possible
Although your pain medication causes you to feel nauseous, you should gradually be able to add more foods. Also, make sure to drink plenty of water to avoid becoming dehydrated.
Avoid Strenuous Activity
You should avoid strenuous activity after your surgery. Don’t do any heavy lifting or exercise other than light things such as walking until the doctor instructs you that you can resume those activities.
Don’t Use Over-the-Counter Scar Creams
After your surgery, you should avoid using over-the-counter scar creams or ointments on your incisions. They can lead to adverse reactions that can irritate your skin. Carefully listen to the doctor and follow all instructions. Also, note that your scars will begin to heal a few weeks after your breast augmentation.
Swelling is Normal
While every woman is different, you should expect to experience swelling for several weeks to even months after your surgery. Generally, most of this occurs in the first few weeks after the procedure. It signifies that your breasts are moving into their final position, size, and shape.
Be Positive
Because healing takes time and is both physical and psychological, it’s important to maintain a positive attitude. Your recovery may take longer than you might expect, but it is all worth it in the end. You should also remember that nothing is perfect and that you should reach out to your loved ones for a strong support system while you heal.
Schedule a Consultation
If you live in the Portland, Oregon area and are interested in having a breast augmentation done, contact Hetal Fitchadia, MD, FACS at your earliest convenience. Schedule a consultation by calling (503) 488-2344 or request an appointment online.
Dr. Fichadia is a double board-certified, comprehensively trained plastic and reconstructive surgeon. She completed general surgical training at St Elizabeth’s Medical Center, an affiliate of Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, MA, and subsequently completed a highly competitive plastic surgery program at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, OR. She has presented research from her time in Boston and Portland at national and international surgical meetings such as Clinical Congress of the American College of Surgeons and annual meeting of American Society of Plastic Surgery.
