After Breast Augmentation: What to Expect
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures today. The procedure offers women the chance to change the way their breasts look. If you are unhappy with your breasts' shape or size, you can benefit from breast augmentation. Like most people, you may be unsure about what the procedure entails. You can find out what to expect after breast augmentation.
The Recovery Period
During the augmentation procedure, the surgeon will insert implants under your chest muscle or under the breast tissue. After the surgery, you will experience soreness and swelling for about two to three weeks.
You are likely to feel weak and have less energy after the procedure. You may experience some stretching or pulling feeling in your chest area. You can expect to feel better day by day, but you will require medication for one or two weeks.
Breast Appearance
You will have some stitches after the breast augmentation. Most of them will be removed in five to 10 days. The breasts will appear rounder and firmer immediately after the surgery, and the skin may feel numb. The skin will feel better with time, but some people experience a permanent loss of sensation in the nipple. Recover is different for each patient, but it is necessary to follow the post-op instructions.
Post-op Activities
It is important to rest as much as possible after the breast augmentation surgery. Getting adequate sleep will help you recover faster. Avoid lifting heavy objects for two to three weeks after surgery. This can include anything from heavy grocery bags and backpacks to a vacuum cleaner or even a child.
Do not lift any objects over your head for two to three weeks. Consult your doctor on when you can go back to driving. You can take a shower the day after the surgery, but do not take a hot bath for at least four weeks.
Your Post-op Diet
You can resume your diet after the surgery. But if your stomach feels upset, try eating bland, low-fat meals. A diet of toast, broiled chicken, plain rice, and yogurt may be comfortable for your stomach.
Drink plenty of fluids unless the doctor advises otherwise. Your bowel movements may not be regular soon after the surgery. Eat foods that will prevent constipation, or a fiber supplement, to avoid straining during bowel movements.
Taking Medications
The doctor will give you instructions on how to take any pain medications after the surgery. Follow the doctor's directions when taking medicine. Consult the doctor about any medication you might be taking before the procedure. The doctor will inform you when to restart medications such as aspirin or blood thinners.
You may have received prescription medication for pain but if not, ask the doctor if you can use OTC pain medicine. The same is true if the medication you received is making you sick. You can ask for different medicines.
It is vital to follow the post-operative directions after the breast augmentation. You will receive instructions on caring for the incision and drains near the incisions. If the doctor prescribes antibiotics, take the full course as directed. Following instructions will help ensure that the recovery goes smoothly.
For more on what to expect after breast augmentation, visit Aesthetic Surgical Associates at our office in Metairie, Louisiana. You can call 504-226-8200 today to schedule an appointment.
