Breast augmentation is one of the most popular forms of cosmetic surgery carried out around the world. However, no matter how common it might be, when you undergo such procedure it’s likely to be the first time you’ll be undergoing such a personal experience – so undoubtedly you’ll have many questions.
One of the most frequently asked is, how long is the recovery period?
The initial stages of recovery: post-op
The first 24 hours after the procedure might be a little uncomfortable (you’ve had a general anesthetic, after all), but, for most people, this simply means feeling a little groggy. You won’t be able to drive, so you’ll need someone to take you home. Make sure someone stays overnight for the first night.
You’ll probably be a little sore, but nothing that can’t be dealt with by appropriate pain relief as prescribed by your surgeon.
Week one
Most people report that they feel the most discomfort between days 2-5, but again, this will be addressed with pain medication. Your surgeon may even administer an injection or provide a medication pain pump if he/she considers it necessary. In general, by day 4 you’ll be able to control any lasting discomfort with over-the-counter pain meds. You’ll be instructed to wear a special recovery bra and to get plenty of rest during this first week.
Weeks 2-8
Any pain should continue to reduce – for most people, the discomfort will be negligible by now. It’s usual to begin moving gently back into your normal daily routine, and those with desk jobs may well be able to return to work. Light exercise is encouraged, but this shouldn’t involve anything that jars the breast tissue. So jogging is out – as is anything that involves lifting weights. If your job is strenuous then it’s advisable to take at least 3 weeks before returning.
Back to business as usual
Your surgeon will arrange a follow-up appointment – this might well be during the first eight weeks of recovery – and you’ll be assessed as to how far along you are with the healing process.
For most people, after two months you’ll be fully recovered and clear to resume all normal activities. Any scars should be fading by about 6 weeks, swelling will have reduced and your breasts will begin to feel and look very natural. It should now be safe to fly, sunbathe, and swim.
The most advanced breast augmentation procedures can lead to even faster recovery – ones that allow patients to benefit from even less downtime than discussed above. The most skilled surgeons can carry out procedures that might allow you to return to normal activity and work in as little as 3-5 days.
Looking for State-of-the-Art Breast Augmentation in Fort Lauderdale?
Then look no further than Palmer Cosmetic Surgery, where leading surgeon Dr. Palmer provides cutting-edge procedures that boast minimal downtime and the ultimate in natural-looking results. Having carried out thousands of breast augmentations (both in isolation and in combination with a breast lift), Dr. Palmer works from his fully accredited private cosmetic surgery suite in Fort Lauderdale for the ultimate in privacy and convenience.
Offering a truly personal and second-to-none service, breast augmentation at Palmer Cosmetic Surgery typically takes no longer than an hour. In addition, clients benefit from the most advanced postoperative pain control techniques, meaning most people experience dramatically reduced discomfort after the procedure, leading to the fastest possible recovery.