For several years, breast augmentation procedures have been known to be one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed around the world. In 2019, breast augmentations were considered to be the top surgical procedure performed in the United States.
Many women report feeling more confident and happy with the results of their breast augmentation. However, before considering this cosmetic procedure, it is important to be informed about simple post-op care breast augmentation instructions.
Follow the guide below to learn more about breast augmentation recovery medications, activity levels, sleep, hygiene, drains, and diet.
Breast augmentation surgeries are typically outpatient surgeries where you are able to return home following the procedure. These types of surgeries are typically performed with the patient under general anesthesia.
Several hours after the anesthesia wears off, some patients can experience nausea and vomiting. Anti-nausea medications will be prescribed to control these symptoms for the first 24 to 48 hours following the procedure.
Following a breast augmentation, patients can start experiencing pain at the incision site once the anesthesia wears off. Your plastic surgeon may prescribe pain medications or narcotics to ensure you remain as comfortable as possible.
Pain medications must be taken as instructed by your surgeon. Alcohol should never be taken with narcotics since this can lead to serious side effects. If no pain is present, pain medication should not be taken.
While taking these medications, make sure you do not consume alcohol or drive because it can cause extreme drowsiness or dizziness and possibly damage your liver. Constipation can also occur when pain medications are taken during an extended period.
Proceeding with your surgery, a muscle relaxant can be prescribed to alleviate muscle aches and cramping. These medications relieve muscle-related discomfort that can occur in the back, neck, chest, or shoulders.
It is recommended that you wait at least one hour before taking a muscle relaxant if you are taking pain medication. By doing so you will avoid experiencing any drowsiness or disorientation. Also, when taking this medication, avoid driving or drinking alcohol.
Antibiotics will be prescribed following your breast augmentation to prevent wound infections.
You may gradually resume normal daily activities after 48 hours, being careful to avoid any activity that causes pain or discomfort. For the first 48 hours, keep your arm movements to a minimum. Your arms should not be used to support your body or to lift objects heavier than five pounds.
By the end of the week, many patients who have closely followed their breast augmentation post-op care instructions can return to everyday activities or work, as long as their job does not require lifting or strenuous physical activity.
Avoiding strenuous activities and exercises for at least 2 weeks after surgery is highly recommended. Speak with your surgeon prior to resuming any form of exercise to avoid any complications.
For several weeks you must sleep on your back and not on your stomach or sides to achieve optimal healing. It is recommended that you sleep for at least 8 hours every night to allow your cells to regenerate properly.
On the second day following surgery, you may remove your bandage, but not the sterile bandages along the incision. Showers are permitted 48 hours after surgery, just carefully pat dry the bandages. However, avoid baths, hot tubs, and swimming pools for several weeks to avoid infections.
During your recovery, you will likely wear a special breast augmentation recovery bra designed to support your implants and aid in healing. Ensure you follow your surgeon’s recommendations for proper techniques while showering, handling wound dressings, and wearing surgical bras.
Small drains can be used following your breast augmentation to remove excess fluid. The drainage bulb should remain compressed at all times. The drain uses suction created by the bulb to remove the fluid from your body and place it into the bulb. If the drain no longer collapses the fluid will need to be removed.
Your surgeon will request that you keep a record of the time and amount of fluid in milliliters that were emptied from the bulb. You will be required to bring this record with you to your follow-up appointments. Your surgeon will determine when the drains can be removed.
Post-surgery nutrition is a key component to fully recovering. After surgery, you may be placed on a full liquid diet, and then on the following day of surgery, you will be able to resume a regular diet. Certain foods contain nutrients that your body needs to rebuild tissue and heal properly.
Consuming lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins following your surgery is vital. A single nutrient deficiency can affect the immune system’s ability to heal. We also recommend that you incorporate supplements that can help accelerate tissue healing, such as WoundVite.*
Several days following surgery, your post-op care breast augmentation should focus on getting plenty of rest and following your surgeon’s recommendations. During the first 24 to 48 hours, you should also arrange for assistance during your recovery from a family member or friend.
Above and beyond that, we recommend that you follow these guidelines for a safe post-op care breast augmentation recovery. Familiarizing yourself with these simple instructions can help you recover from surgery quicker and without unexpected complications.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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