Breast Augmentation Q&A
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Breast Augmentation Recovery
asked 4 years ago by anon
Latest answer by Alexander Aslani, MD
Question viewed 39,839 times
Tags: aftercare, downtime, recovery
Considering enhancing my breasts through surgery. My biggest worries are about breast augmentation recovery. What can I expect? How much time off work does breast implant recovery require? Will I be able to take care of my 2 children afterwards? When do scars really begin to fade? The more you can tell me the better!
101 answers to Breast Augmentation Recovery
+5
Recovery from breast augmentation
Hello,
Recovery from breast augmentation depends on a number of factors including how tight your breast tissue is, how big the implant is, and whether the implant is under the muscle or on top of the muscle.
Pain: In general, pain from augmentation on top of the muscle is minimal and recovery is about 1-2 days at most. Augmentation under the muscle results in more discomfort and may require up to a week to feel back to normal.
Scars: Scars should be...
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+5
Plastic Surgery Recovery
Each patient will recover somewhat differently. On the day of surgery, the effects of anesthesia may make you feel nauseous. There may be minimimal discomfort for the first day or two. However, most patients patients are able to start doing normal activities in 3 - 4 days, with a full return to normality within 2 weeks.
+5
Initially, you can expect to feel tightness and pressure...
Initially, you can expect to feel tightness and pressure if the implants are placed under the muscle. Pain medication and muscle relaxants can ease this. Only use as much as you need to reach a point of "tolerable discomfort." Trying to become pain free with medications is not possible and will only lead to taking too much of the drugs prescribed to you.
This tightness eases significantly over the first week and most patients are off medications by then. Returning to activities that...
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+4
Breast Augmentation Recovery-Plan 10 days to two weeks to be safe
Thank you for your question. Recovery time is less for Breast Augmentation under the Breast than for Breast Augmentation under the Muscle. Discomfort lasts about 4 days for the former 10-12 days for the latter.
The first 4-5 days you will need help lifting your children, housework and physical work on the job. Vigorous exercise should be avoided for at least three weeks but power walking, tread mill and exercise that does not involve the upper body can be started at two weeks. No push...
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+4
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Each surgeon's recommendations will vary, but here are some general guidelines.
Plan on 3-5 days of no obligations to rest after your surgery
Get help for your little ones during this time
Don't plan to drive during this time
Time away from work depends upon the physical activity requirements of your job
Avoid lifting more than 15-20 pounds for about 4-6 weeks, after surgery
you may lift your children carefully, if...
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+4
Most patients who undergo breast augmentation are...
Most patients who undergo breast augmentation are actually surprised to find that they recovery is smoother than anticipated. I find that a majority of patients are most concerned about side-effects related to the standard oral narcotic medications.
To help reduce the need for these following surgery, I not only inject the breasts with numbing medication during the procedure, I also wash out the implant pocket with antibiotic solution and additional numbing medicine. Most importantly, I...
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+3
Breast Augmentation recovery?
Recovery in general for breast augmentation is a fairly carefree operation done as an outpatient procedure with general anesthesia. The patient can usually go home following the procedure and short recovery period. Although in my practice in Dallas, Texas we have a full overnight nursing care hotel facility for the patient to stay overnight if desired. Most normal activity can be resumed in three to five days following surgery. I recommend my patients to refrain from exercise and getting...
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+3
Breast Augmentation Recovery
If your implants are placed submuscular (under the muscle) then I suggest no gym for 6 weeks. If they're over the muscle then you can get back almost right away.
Take off about 3 days to get back to work and don't drive while you're taking the prescribed pain pills but this won't be more than a few days (everybody is different). Let the kids get up on your lap then take them from a sitting position. Don't lift them from a standing position because it's a little too much force on the...
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+3
Recovery from Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation is outpatient surgery. After surgery, you may experience some soreness that should be easily managed with one-two pain pills every 6 hours. Usually, my patients do not require pain medications beyond 3-5 days. After surgery you will have swelling in the upper pole of your breast. This swelling resolves over 2-3 weeks. I recommend no heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 3-4 weeks after surgery. Usually, 24-48 hrs after surgery, most patients feel comfortable...
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+3
What to expect following breast augmentation: general post-operative course
* Video for post-op breast implant displacement exercises (also called breast massage)
These are general observations and by no means exhaustive nor completely exclusive.
Days 1-4: Inflammatory period: Swelling, pain, discomfort. Early risk for bleeding in first 24 hours.This is the period that requires the vast majority of medication. Move arms (if allowed by surgeon to minimize spasm pain). Bruising may appear. Fluid retention is common as is weight gain.
Days 4-10: Generally OK to shower...
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Otto Joseph Placik, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon
Chicago Plastic Surgeon
+2
Dr. S' 5 tips to know about breast augmentation recovery
1. Most important is to move move move! Gone are the days when surgeons would wrap you up like a mummy. We want you to do gentle slow stretching exercises with the first 24 hrs.
2. You will not be totally out of it the evening of surgery. This is out patient surgery and you will be able to go home the same day and see your family
3...
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Douglas S. Steinbrech, MD
New York Plastic Surgeon
New York Plastic Surgeon
+2
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Breast augmentation is usually performed in an outpatient setting under general anesthesia, though in some instances, may be performed under sedation with local anesthesia and nerve blocks.
Recovery times vary on an individual basis, but patients are usually off of narcotic pain medicines in 1-2 days and able to return to work by 3 days. Light exercise, such as brisk walking, leg weights, and caring for small children, can be performed after 2-3 weeks while full exercise may...
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+2
Breast Implants - Recovery
Hi,
Well, there's a lot of info out there by now. You should definitely check out surgery dot org and plasticsurgery dot org.
But, in general, here's what I'd say.
It takes about a week to get through most of the recovery, 3 weeks before you can start exercising, and several weeks to months to see the final results. No exercise means no lifting of children, and whether or not you can take care of them depends on what's involved with that...
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+2
Recovery in a week or less
While all patients are unique, I have found that most recover from a breast augmentation in a week or less. Sub- muscular placement usually takes a little longer than sub-glandular placement. The type of job one has also plays into the recovery period. Business owners and people with desk jobs return sooner than people with jobs requiring lifting such as nurses or flight attendants. Mom's rarely get a break and are caring for their children in the first week....
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+2
Breast Augmentation Recovery Time
When I first went into practice, every patient was advised to take two weeks off. Within the last 5 years I have offered a pain pump which allows my patients to move around more quickly and comfortably. This has cut the patients off work time down to one week. Patients will not be able to work out until I release them. Patients may remain tired for up to six weeks.
Christine Sullivan, MD
Columbus Plastic Surgeon
Columbus Plastic Surgeon
+2
Breast Augmentation recovery, Resuming activities following breast implant surgery
The recovery from subpectoral breast augmentation used to be a rather unpleasant experience, but it no longer has to be. A space for the implant must be developed behind the pectoralis major, and a portion of the muscle's inferior origin must be released. Surgery on a muscle in most cases produces significant postoperative pain, and that is certainly true for breast augmentation. However, by using a local anesthetic infusion device (the On-Q 'Pain Buster') for the first two...
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+2
Recovery after Breast Augmentation
Recovery after breast augmentation is dependent on many individual factors. In general, most patients recover in 5-7 days and return to normal activity. Return to exercise and normal gym routine can take at least 2 weeks. Many of my patients opt to have breast implant surgery under conscious sedation, which speeds the recovery after anesthesia, decreasing nausea and headaches. From El Paso.
+2
Quick recovery from breast augmentation
In general, recovery after breast augmentation is quick. In my practice in Fort Worth and Southlake, Texas, the surgery is done under general anesthesia as an outpatient. Everyone has some discomfort after surgery but this is usually easily managed by oral pain medications. Normal daily activities can be resumed in a few days but I recommend at least 2 weeks before resuming an excercise regiment to decrease the risk of complications and discomfort from use of the chest muscle....
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Jonathan Heistein, MD
Fort Worth Plastic Surgeon
Fort Worth Plastic Surgeon
+2
Back to work after implants?
Recovery from breast surgery depends on many factors including implant size and placement, patients pain tolerance to name a few. In general, most will require 3-5 days off from a non-physical job and up to 2-3 weeks from more physically active jobs. You will need help with your children for a few days, but this mainly depends on their ages. Scars are generally presentable after 4-6 weeks but can take up to 1 year to fully mature.
+2
Breast augmentation recovery in los angeles
Most of my patients who have breast augmentation in los angeles usually take 4-5 days off work after breast augmentation. Obviously, it also depends on the type of work you do. I allow my patients to start light exerciseing in about 10 days.
S. Sean Younai, MD
Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon
Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon
+2
Recovery after breast surgery
Probably the biggest factor in any patients ability to bounce back after any surgery is pain control. Having a good pain tolerance and being prescribed appropriate pain medications will make any recovery more tolerable, more pleasant, and will allow you to return to regular activities sooner.
Going under the muscle tends to be more uncomfortable and prolongs the recovery. It also will take a little longer for you to see your final results. The upside of going under the...
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+2
Recovery after breast augmentation
All surgeons and patients are different and recovery depends upon both. I am going to refer to augmentation performed in the subglandular plain for this part of the answer. Recovery is measured in days not weeks. At ten days postoperative, you will be able to care for your children. You will have to wait 6 weeks before resuming exercise in a gym but you can walk 3 to five miles at about one week. Arm movement is not limited after surgery. Pain after...
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Gary H. Manchester, MD
San Diego Plastic Surgeon
San Diego Plastic Surgeon
+2
Recovery can be quick
Most women in my practice feel good after 3-4 days following a breast augmentation. Except for women who have very demanding manual labor jobs, they are back to work in one week. Most are back in the gym to two weeks (doing activities that don't require their upper body). Taking care of your children depends a little bit on their age. Often they can crawl into your lap and then you can stand up with them in your arms after about a week. Scars will fade over 3-6...
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Daniel Sherick, MD
Ann Arbor Plastic Surgeon
Ann Arbor Plastic Surgeon
+2
Recovery after breast augmentation is rapid
Recovery from breast augmentation is usually quick and depends on several factors including tightness of the breast skin, whether the implant is over or under the pectorals muscle and the size and therefor pressure caused by the implant.
Most patients can return to most normal activities and stop pain medication by the end of the second day after surgery. More strenuous exercise and heavy lifting greater than 20 pounds should wait about 2 -3 weeks.
Pain after breast...
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+2
Recovery from breast augmentation
The main concern after breast augmentation in the immediate post op period is bleeding. I tell my patients to minimize arm motion. No lifting more than five pounds in the first week. The patient can walk, cook, work at a desk or computer. The pain is controlled with narcotic pain medicine and is usually controlled with Ibuprofen after three days. You can wear a regular bra the next day.
Farhad Rafizadeh, MD
Morristown Plastic Surgeon
Morristown Plastic Surgeon
+2
How long is the recovery after Breast Augmentation?
Hi there-
The length and character of your recovery period will depend on a few variables... The technique chosen by you and your surgeon (under the muscle or over), your surgeon's technique (for better or worse, some surgeons are more gentle with tissues and their patients have less pain), and your individual tolerance for pain. In other words even doing the procedure the same way in two different patients, they will have differing levels of pain that lasts variable amounts of time.
The...
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+2
Recovery period is worth it!
Pain is very subjective, but most women need a narcotic for about 3 days after the procedure. I tell my patients not to lift anything heavy or strain themselves for four weeks after the procedure so as not to affect the muscle or stir up bleeding.
Scars can take as long as a year to achieve their long-term appearance, but after 6 months they will mostly be there.
Although nobody enjoys the recovery process, it will be well worth it to enjoy the rewards of breast augmentation surgery.
Good Luck!
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Jeffrey Horowitz, MD
Baltimore Plastic Surgeon
Baltimore Plastic Surgeon
+2
Breast Augmentation Surgery Recovery
Breast Augmentation has consistently been the most popular cosmetic surgery operation for multiple reasons; It is affordable, makes a great change in your appearance, boosts your attractiveness and self-confidence and does NOT have a prolonged down-time.
The discomfort associated with breast augmentation depends on your pain tolerance and how the operation was performed. By avoiding blunt pulling of tissues and using careful technique many surgeons produce nearly pain free breast...
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+2
Recovery for Breast Augmentation Surgery
Generally breast augmentation surgery recovery is between 3-5 days depending of the age of the client and the implant size chosen. Younger clients in the 20-30 group tend to bounce back faster but still need to limit their aerobic exercise and heavy lifting for a four weeks after surgery. I find the larger implants sizes in a small chest have more tightness and generally the muscles are working harder to expand and contract so they made have a little more discomfort from surgery. At 6...
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+1
Breast augmentation recovery
The majority of silicone implant breast augmentations will be submuscular, then recovery is usually 2-3 days.
Time of work will depend on what you do.......if you just have an office job, you can go back to work straig afterwards, any jobs requiring physical activity take much longer.
In Caucasian skin type patients, scars should fade within 4-5 months
Alexander Aslani, MD
Spain Plastic Surgeon
Spain Plastic Surgeon
+1
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Most patients feel tired and sore after surgery and there is some degree of bruising and swelling. The pain pump catheters are removed painlessly at the first post-operative visit (48-hours). There are no stitches to remove. Most patients return to work after one week. More strenuous activities should be avoided for 4-6 weeks.
Gregory A. Wiener, MD, FACS
Chicago Plastic Surgeon
Chicago Plastic Surgeon
+1
Recovery after breast augmentation
With breast augmentation, recovery differs for every patient. There does not seem to be a real rhyme or reason to it. Some patients look great and feel great the day after surgery. Others may be miserable for a week or more. In general, I tell my patients that, if they give themselves a long weekend to recover, they will probably be fine. If their implants are under the muscle, the implants may sit high and tight for up to two or three months following surgery...
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Edwin C. Pound, III, MD
Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
+1
What You Can Expect From Breast Augmentation
The first step is to choose a surgeon you can trust. Breast Augmentation can increase fullness and projection of your breasts, improve the balance of your figure, and enhance your self-image and self-confidence. Be prepared to discuss why you want the surgery, your expectations and outcomes. You can expect to be under general anesthesia for the surgery. The incision can be made under the breast (inframammary fold), in the axilla (transaxillary incision) or around the areola...
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John W. Zinsser, MD
Richmond Plastic Surgeon
Richmond Plastic Surgeon
+1
Rapid Recovery Breast Augmentation
Many advances have been made in breast augmentation surgery over the past several years. Post operative guidelines vary greatly among surgeons, primarily based on their training and type of breast augmentation. Most patients do extremely well with a "rapid recovery" technique. This involves early mobility following surgery, muscle stretching, and early activity with anti-inflammatory pain medication only. Most of my patients have been able to resume normal daily...
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+1
Breast augmentation recovery
Recovery after any soft tissue surgery gets a fairly consistent answer, 4-6 weeks. The main reason is it takes about 6 weeks for the scar tissue to be strong enough to take normal forces of unrestricted activity against it. for breast surgeries I tell my patients to avoid heavy lifting (more than a gallon of milk) or repetitive arm motions during that time. Return to work obviously depends on the job if it can be done with the above restriction than I tell my patients they...
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+1
Breast augmentation recovery: what to expect
The recovery process for breast augmentation varies depending on whether the implants are placed over the muscle, or under the muscle.
If over the muscle, recovery is about 1-2 days for light activities.
If under the muscle, you will experience a bit more discomfort, and it will take about a week for you to feel back to normal.
In either case no heavy lifting or intense exercise.
Tightness eases significantly over the first week. Most swelling should be gone by 6...
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+1
Breast augmentation recovery
Breast augmentation doesn't have to have a long recovery. The key to a quick recovery is the surgical technique. Less bleeding and bruising usually means less pain and recovery time. The other factor is the size of the implants based on the size of the breast. A big implant in a small breast will be more uncomfortable than a more modest sized implant. In my practice I allow patients to shower the day of the surgery and I encourage everyone to go out to...
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Jason E. Leedy, MD
Cleveland Plastic Surgeon
Cleveland Plastic Surgeon
+1
Recovery from breast augmentation
Every patient's recovery after breast augmentation is a little different-- it will depend on where the implant is placed (above or below the muscle), how large an implant you chose, and how much breast tissue you started with. In general, in our practice (mostly silicone gel implants, under the muscle, inframammary incision, no general anesthetic) patients are feeling pretty good within a few days. It would be best if you could allow yourself a whole week without obligation (such as...
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Matthew Concannon, MD
Columbia Plastic Surgeon
Columbia Plastic Surgeon
+1
Recovery is variable
Most patients need about 10 days to 2 weeks to get back to work. i have had patients get back within a week or so but this is not definitely the norm. if you have young children, i would suggest having family help out with the kids for at least a week after the operation.
scars are generally well hidden, but will fade after about 3 months or so. this also depends on your skin type. people with pale skin tend to have very red scars, but ultimately the scars fade...
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+1
Breast augmentation recovery not too long
There are many factors which determine how fast a patient will recover after breast augmentation surgery. I have college students have the procedure on a Friday and go back to class on Monday. Likewise I have also seen a factory worker stay home from her job for 3 weeks. Some of these factors include whether the implants are placed over or under the pectoralis major muscle, how big the implants are, how tight the soft tissues are, how active the patient is, and the...
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+1
Recovery should be fairly quick
In my experience patients recover quite quickly after Breast Augmentation. Some patients have more pain than others but it is no uncommon for patients to have surgery on a Thursday and go back to work the following Monday. Yes, you will be sore and the most uncomfortable for the first 3-4 days following surgery but the pain decreases very quickly. I would plan to have help with your children for the first 3-4 days but very soon you will be back to your normal daily activities.
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Renato Saltz, MD
Salt Lake City Plastic Surgeon
Salt Lake City Plastic Surgeon
+1
Recovery after Breast Augmentation
Returning to regular daily activities after breast augmentation generally occurs in 3-5 days. This would not include vigorous house-cleaning or vacuuming as those repetitive motions would increase your swelling and therefore increase your pain. Helping a small child into a car seat or highchair could be done in a couple of days after surgery. If you are a mom with young children it would be advisable to have help for the first 2-3 days. The most common description moms give of the...
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Douglas Leppink, M.D.
Grand Rapids Plastic Surgeon
Grand Rapids Plastic Surgeon
+1
Breast Implant recovery time
Typical recovery time after breast implant surgery is 3-5 days for everyday activities. More vigorous or strenuous activity will require a longer recovery time (i.e. tennis, golf, volleyball, basketball, swimming) probably 4-6 weeks. If your job is sedentary you will be able to return to work quickly, if your job involves a lot of lifting, turning, twisting or pulling you will need to take 1-2 weeks off.
Of course, everyone's recovery is different and the type of surgery...
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David Finkle, MD
Omaha Plastic Surgeon
Omaha Plastic Surgeon
+1
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Breast augmentation surgery recovery is typically 3-5 days. We ask that you avoid lifting, pulling, or pushing anything over 10lbs for about 4-6 weeks from the date of surgery. At 6 weeks, you are cleared to resume working out. Breast augmentation scars do fade over time and Dr. Heck prefers to put the scars in the breast creases to make them less noticeable. You breast implants will settle into place over 3-6 months.
Robert Heck, MD
Columbus Plastic Surgeon
Columbus Plastic Surgeon
+1
Recovery after breast augmentation
Many websites including mine, have extensive amounts of infomation on the healing process.
Under the muscle may take 2 weeks or more before you are comfortable to pick up your kids. Over the muscle is easier healing.
Scars can take 6 to 18 months to fade. the shape of your breasts usually about 2-3 months to stabilize
+1
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Thanks for an excellent question. In general most plastic surgeons will have their own post operative regimen, but here is what works for my practice in Austin, Texas. Surgery: breast augmentation surgery takes about an hour, I use general anesthesia so that it is comfortable for you. This means you sleep through the procedure with no pain. I operate exclusively in a hospital but some surgeons will use surgery centers or operating room in their offices. My patients go home a few hours after...
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Mahlon Kerr, MD
Austin Plastic Surgeon
Austin Plastic Surgeon
+1
Breast augmentation recovery
Recovery from breast augmentation usually involves one week off from work. The pain level varies among patients; generally, submuscular placement is more painful than implants over the muscle. In terms of your children, if you have toddlers, you should not lift them for at least 2-3 weeks after surgery, if not longer. Scarring fades gradually over the course of a year. The surgery is performed on an ambulatory basis and you will go home the same day. Sutures are removed one week after...
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+1
Recovery after breast augmentation
In our practice, we recommend about 3-5 days off work after the procedure, depending on the type of work you do. Work that requires heavy lifting etc may take a little longer. We recommend early light exercise is encouraged. We in fact teach our patients some simple arm raising exercises beginning in the recovery area immediately after the procedure. In combination with a bloodless approach to the operation we find that this leads to a much faster recovery, and little need for pain...
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+1
Recovery from breast augmentation
Most of my patients who have breast augmentation surgery are back to work in one week as long as they don't have strenuous jobs. You will want help with your children for at least two to three days. When the implants are placed under the muscle, it is best to keep your elbows below your shoulders for at least 10 days after surgery. You can drive in a week or so as long as you are no longer taking any pain medication and are comfortable enough to turn around to look behind you...
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+1
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Most patients feel tired and sore for a day or two following their surgery. Most of my patients return to work within the week. Any stitches used will dissolve within a week or 10 days prior. Within the first few weeks most swelling and sensitivity and pain with be gone. Breast Augmentation scars will fade in a few months and continue to fade away for up to one year.
+1
Recovery after Breast Augmentation Need Not Be Long
Please do not let your recovery fears prevent you from having breast augmentation. I ask all my patients to follow a quick recovery regiment described on my website. Patients begin a series of stretching exercises in the recovery room to prevent spasm of the chest wall muscles. Washing your hair and showering are advised the evening following surgery. Most of my patients can return to everyday activities and be back at work in three to four days. Heavy lifting and aerobics in two weeks with...
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Richard Linderman, MD
Indianapolis Plastic Surgeon
Indianapolis Plastic Surgeon
+1
Breast Augmentation Recovery- Not So Bad
The recovery from Breast Augmentation surgery depends a bit on exactly what you mean by recovery. Typically, in my experience, patients having surgery on Friday are usually back to work by Monday. It should be safe to lift a young child within a day or two. However, when it comes to working out or running, I usually tell patients two weeks is the norm.
+1
Breast augmentation recovery
The biggest difference in recovery will be determined by whether the implant is placed submuscular or under the breast and above the muscle. Although the recovery is longer under the muscle we still recommend it as our procedure of choice for several reasons beyond the scope of this discussion.
Picking up anything, especially children, can be limited for several weeks. Scar healing will take several months. Back to work varies depending on what exactly your job...
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Talmage J. Raine, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon
Chicago Plastic Surgeon
+1
Breast augmentation Recovery
Breast augmentation usually requires one week off from work. You will pobably require narcotics such as vicodin for two to three days, You should not be driving or operating machinery while on narcotics. You will need help with the kids and should not be picking up anything heavier than 25 lbs. Please have someone help you with the kids and help you at home. I recently had a patient get out of bed by herself on postop day #2 and she fell and fractured her mandible. Someone should be witjh...
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Leo Lapuerta, MD
Houston Plastic Surgeon
Houston Plastic Surgeon
+1
Recovery fron Breast Augmenation
Most women heal very well after breast augmentation. You can expect some pain and discomfort for a few days. As long as your work doesn't involve heavy labor, you may safely consider returning to work a week after surgery. Some women are ready even earlier. Most patients are fairly swollen for a month. It takes nine months to a year to see your final results.You will want some help for a day or two after surgery. If your children are small, you may not be able to lift them for...
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+1
What to expect after breast augmentation...
After having breast augmentation you should expect an initial recovery time of 4-7 days. After that time, many patients feel good enough to perform basic functions or work a non strenuous job as long as the support bra is in place. Some common side effects include swelling, bruising and tenderness during your recovery time. During recovery time it's important to restrict yourself from strenuous activities for at least 2-3 weeks. As a few weeks go by the scars...
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+1
Breast Aug Recovery
It really depends on the placement of the implant (over vs under the muscle). Over the muscle I have had competitive swimmers compete in 10 days to 2 weeks. Under the muscle is different. When the muscle is cut you really have a different concern. I have had someone bleed after submuscular breast aug after working out at the 3rd week. That does not mean that working your core and aerobics is not ok. Just work with your doctor to make a plan that works for you. Not everyone is the same....
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+1
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Breast augmentation is typically done on an outpatient basis and the average "recovery time" is one week. You will need help with young children for the first week, because you should not lift anything over 15 pounds. If you work and your job is more physical(like being a nurse, hair stylist, etc) you may need to take off up to 2 weeks just to play it safe. Submuscular implants are more painful and the recovery is more exacting, but the recovery can be eased...
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Michael Vincent, MD
Rockville Plastic Surgeon
Rockville Plastic Surgeon
+1
Recovery after Breast Augmentation
Although recovery varies from patient to patient there are a few constants I advise my patients of.
Outpatient surgery taking about an hour and 15 minutes.
Need a driver for first couple post op visits, day 1 and 4-5
Local with IV sedation
3-5 days to start driving and back to non strenuous work
10 days to non impact exercise/ 5-6 weeks to impact and heavier arm lifting
5-7 days to taking care of ambulating kids
Implants may be a bit high at first but will...
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Terrence Murphy, MD
Englewood Plastic Surgeon
Englewood Plastic Surgeon
+1
Breast augmentation recovery
Recovery from any surgical procedure varies from patient to patient. It depends on patient's pain threshold and how the augmentation is performed. Breast augmentation is typically an outpatinet procedure. You will go home on the same day. For the first couple days, you will have tight discomfort around your chest, like you had engorgement from breastfeeding. Then the discomfort/pain subside pretty fast. Most of my patients take pain mediation...
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+1
Smooth recovery for attractive breasts after augmentation
Our patients tell us they appreciate their personalized aftercare recommendations. For example an entertainer will have different aftercare recommendations than a teacher, etc. Having taken care of thousands of happy breast augmentation patients, we have learned what works best for you. We share that with you. Experience matters.
Dr. George Alexander
+1
Recovery is usually fast after breast augmentation
In general, recovery after breast augmentation is quick. In my practice in Boston, the surgery is done under general anesthesia as an outpatient. Everyone has some discomfort after surgery but this is usually easily managed by oral pain medications, cool compresses and minimizing activity of the arms. Normal daily activities can be resumed in 3 - 5 days and work in 5 - 7 days but I recommend at least 3 weeks before resuming an excercise regiment to decrease the risk of...
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+1
Recovery after Breast Augmentation
Recovery from surgery depends on a number of factors. Breast Augmentation surgery usually has a quick recovery, with minimal pain. Most of my patients describe the feeling as similar to when the milk comes in. One or two pain killers are generally all that are needed in the first 24 hours. I recommend you take it easy for the first two weeks after surgery, but after a week, you should be able to resume most activities (within reason).
The scars are pretty fine, and most are not...
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Verne Weisberg, MD
Portland Plastic Surgeon
Portland Plastic Surgeon
+1
Breast Augmentation
The surgeon will make an incision and create a "pocket," or space within your breast tissues, for the breast implant. The breast implant will be placed in the pocket and positioned. Then the incision will be closed, usually with sutures. Breast augmentation is an outpatient basis in an operating room, surgery center or surgical suite in a surgeon's office.
On average, the surgery lasts two hours in my office. You will be under general anesthesia.
With incision...
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+1
Recovery after breast augmentation surgery
Recovery after breast augmentation surgery is a unique experience for everyone, but in general I find that most patients are feeling pretty good after one week. Most are off of narcotic pain medication, driving, and back to work by one week post-op, or even sooner for sub-glandular augmentation. I recommend that mothers with young children have help with their children for the first week following surgery. Most patients are ready to resume light, low-impact cardiovascular...
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Amy M. Sprole, MD
Wichita Plastic Surgeon
Wichita Plastic Surgeon
+1
After Breast Surgery
Breast Enhancement Surgery is a very common procedure, performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeons (BCPS), as well as others....both surgeons and non-surgeons. As such, there are many different experiences out there. It is important, in my opinion, to find a BCPS who operated in a certified surgery center and performs a significant number of breast procedures.
Typically, I tell my patients that it is most prudent to schedule at least 5-7 days off from work. Recruit a responsible adult...
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John Philip Connors III, MD
Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
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After breast augmentation
Many of my patients are mothers who are nervous about returning home and being able to continue being their lives as normal. In most cases the answer is yes. It takes women about 3-5 days to recover from the surgery and about 6 months for the implants to settle. There are some restrictions with lifting, which is to be expected and it is not advised that you drive while taking pain medications. Be mindful that someone will have to pick you up from surgery and that you will not be able to...
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Joseph G. Bauer, MD
Alpharetta Plastic Surgeon
Alpharetta Plastic Surgeon
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Recovery time varies from 2-3 weeks to return to full activity
Patients that undergo breast augmentation average between 2-3 weeks before they returned all their normal activity. When the events are placed under the breast tissue but on top of the muscle, the recovery time is even faster.I have patients who have returned to work the day after breast augmentation. If you have little children particularly ones that you would have to be picking up, I would not do this for the first seven days.
Scars take 9-12 months to mature and you can help the...
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Joseph M. Perlman, MD
Houston Plastic Surgeon
Houston Plastic Surgeon
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Recovery after breast augmentation
One can expect to be a little drowsy for a day after breast augmentation surgery, but up and about soon thereafter. There usually is some swelling and soreness that may limit what you want to do, but most women are able to get back to work in a couple of days - that, of course, depends upon what your job requires.
I have seen athletes running three days after surgery. Although I do not limit you holding your children, heavy lifting may not be possible for 4-6 weeks. Since you have 2...
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Randy J. Buckspan, MD
Austin Plastic Surgeon
Austin Plastic Surgeon
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Convalescence
Although it is a fairly simple operation, there are some steps to take to ensure that nothing goes wrong after a breast augmentation surgery.
Arm movements need to be kept to a minimum for a few days and most patients can return to work (desk work only) about one week after their surgery.
Exercise and hard physical work need to be avoided for four to six weeks.
V. William Papanastasiou, MD
Montreal Plastic Surgeon
Montreal Plastic Surgeon
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Post-operative expectations following breast augmentation surgery
If the implants are placed in the subglandular (above the muscle) position there is very little down time. Patients are able to resume activities in 24 hours. If the implants are placed in the submuscular postion (below the muscle) there is slightly more discomfort and patients are generally able to return to activies in 48-72 hours.
Marisa Lawrence, MD
Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
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Average recovery time from breast augmentation [With Video]
Most women are able to return to desk-related activities within 4-6 days, although things such as exercising and other strenuous activities should not be attempted for a minimum of 3 weeks, on average.
see video
Michael L. Workman, MD
Portland Plastic Surgeon
Portland Plastic Surgeon
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Breast augmentation recovery
Most patients recover very quickly and uneventfully after breast augmentation. Women who have had breast enlargement describe the recovery as tightness and pressure on the chest. This typically last 3 to 4 days. Most women say they feel fine a week after surgery and are back to normal two weeks post-op. I ask my patients to refrain from athletic or strenuous activities for three weeks after their surgery.
Everyone is different, but most patients are surprised at how quickly they recover....
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James H. Schmidt, MD
Sarasota Plastic Surgeon
Sarasota Plastic Surgeon
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Breast augmentation recovery
Breast augmentation surgery is an outpatient (go home the same day) surgery which is very well tolerated. The recovery period is slightly different depending on whether the implants are above or below the muscle. When placed above the muscle, the recovery is usually quicker. Pain medication and muscle relaxants may help with the discomfort.
Although every patient is different, In general the recovery is similar to the following:
Home the same day of surgery
Discomfort lasts...
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David Bogue, MD
Boca Raton Plastic Surgeon
Boca Raton Plastic Surgeon
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Breast Augmentation Recovery
Recovery from breast augmentation will vary with each patient. Usually you are up and around within 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Most patients go back to work within 3 to 5 days after surgery. You will still have swelling and tightness in the chest area for few weeks after surgery. Check out our website for our special breast augmentation pricing thru October 2010.
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Rapid Recovery breast augmentation
Breast augmentation can be done with little to no downtime. By utilizing careful surgical technique and having the patient do postoperative stretching exercises every hour, patients can go out to eat and go shopping the day of their surgery, taking only Motrin. This post-op recovery program was pioneered by Dr. John Tebbetts from Dallas and we have used it in our practice for over five years. This is completely opposite of the "old school" approach where the patient is bound up,...
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Bruce W. Van Natta, MD
Indianapolis Plastic Surgeon
Indianapolis Plastic Surgeon
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Recovery from Breast Augmentation
There are many factors which affect your recovery from this or any surgery. The first thing to realize with Breast Augmentation surgery is that you will feel better quicker than you think, but you will still have to limit your activity to reduce your long term risks for complications such as bleeding that can increase the risk for capsular contracture. I tell my patients to wear a surgical bra for 3 weeks around the clock except when showering, and not to do any lifting, active arm motion,...
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Kimberley O'Sullivan, MD
Boston Plastic Surgeon
Boston Plastic Surgeon
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Faster recovery from Breast Augmentation
As many have answered, the placement of the implants under the muscle do prolong the recovery more. However, this can be diminished by minimizing the trauma to the tissue and limiting the amount of anesthetic gas you receive. If your surgeon performs a local block of the breast, you will need less anesthesia, have less pain after surgery, and thus, recover faster.
In addition, limited trauma/injury to the breast tissue, ribs, muscle, etc with help ensure a fast recovery. All of these...
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Ankit Desai, MD
Jacksonville Plastic Surgeon
Jacksonville Plastic Surgeon
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Breast augmentation recovery
Breast augmentation surgery, when done under the muscle like most of us commonly do, can be quite painful for the first 48 hours. I use a pain pump for this reason, and my patients have much less pain because of it. This means less narcotic pain medicine needed, which means less potential nausea, and a dramatically better experience. I would strongly advise you to seek a surgeon who uses a pain pump, especially if you are that concerned about your recovery.
You'll still need to take it...
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Recovery depends on where the breast implant goes
Generally speaking, if you are considering breast augmentation the length of recovery is primarily driven by whether the implant goes above or below the muscle. Above the muscle the pain goes quickly, below the muscle and you are more sore and have more difficulty raising your arms for a couple weeks. Having said this everyone responds to pain differently and the decision of where the implant goes is more complicated and should be made in consultation with your surgeon.
Farzad R Nahai, MD
Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
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Full recovery after breast augmentation
A few factors will help determine the length of your recovery. The placement, over vs. under the muscle. Under the muscle will cause more discomfort, anywhere from 1day to up to 2 weeks. The size of the implants, larger expansion of the breast tissue or muscle , will likely cause more discomfort. Scars never go away completely but can become so faint that they are almost unnoticeable. Full scar healing takes over 12 months.
After 3 weeks I let my patients return to full activities. This...
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Irvin M. Wiesman, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon
Chicago Plastic Surgeon
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Breast Augmentation Recovery
Breast augmentation recovery does not have to be difficult. We even encourage our patients to go out to dinner the same night as their surgery. On the day of surgery, you will be at the surgical center for about 2 to 3 hours. The surgery takes less than one hour and immediate recovery takes about one hour. You can then go home. You will have bandages in place. We put a special tape on your incisions which stays in place for about two weeks. When the tape comes off, the incisions are...
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Breast Augmentation with Rapid Recovery
Straightforward breast augmentation should NOT require a lengthy recovery. The majority of my patients do not require pain medication for more than 1 to 3 days and are able to return to work or school with very little restriction also within 1 to 3 days.
A major part of your recovery depend on 1 of 2 things:
1) the surgeons technique and
2) your pain tolerance.
With gentle tissue handling there is less inflammation which results in less pain and a quicker recovery. Despite...
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Recovery from Breast augmentation
Here's my timetable:
Day #2 Remove drains
Day #4 Remove pain pump- Pain pump is extremely important in reducing pain and improving recovery time
Day #7 Start driving
As far as babies, have somebody helping out the first few days.
Check out the video on pain pumps and why they are important, and the blogpost on sedation
see video
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Hard decision about breast augmentation
Your recovery will depend on whether the implant is over or under the muscle. No matter what, no heavy lifting for 2 weeks; this includes children, groceries, vacuuming, etc.
As for the children, it depends on their ages; I am guessing that they are young. You will need help to take care of them for at least a week. Everyone is variable, but the scars usually take 1-2 years to truly fade although many patients have scars that look faded at 6 months. The best thing to do is have a...
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Recovery from Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is one of the most common cosmetic procedure performed in the U.S.
The recovery is fairly quick, Mild to moderate pain, However pain is very well cotroled. Back to normal light activity within couple of days and back to work in a week. No heavy activity for three weeks. No lifting, pushing or pulling for three weeks
Samir Shureih, MD
Baltimore Plastic Surgeon
Baltimore Plastic Surgeon
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Recovery from breast augmentation surgery
The recovery time from Breast Augmentation varies to a few days to weeks. There are many factors that effect the recovery. Discuss these with your chosen plastic surgeon. I tell my personal patients the average is a week to 10 days.
As for caring for your small children. I would recommend help for the first week.
The scars in breast implants will be mostly un noticeable by 1 month
Hope this helps. Regards!
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Recovery from Breast augmentation is easy.
Hi.
Most of our breast augmentation patients in New York City are pleasantly surprised with the recovery. Of course, it is out patient surgery, and many patients go back to work in 2 or 3 days! (This is confirmed in some large series of patients.) I would get some help with your kids for maybe 4 days. The only thing is you should avoid STRENUOUS exercise for 3 weeks,
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Recovery from breast implants
Most patients can go back to routine acitivities within 1 week. I instruct patients to avoid aerobic type activities for 2-3 weeks and heavy lifting for 6 weeks including small children! Scars can fade relatively quickly but may take up to 1 year to fade all the way.
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Breast augmentation recovery
If your breast implants are to be placed under your pectoral (chest) muscle, you should plan on no heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks. However, you may return to regular work-related (office) activity within 3 days or so. Most patients will take narcotics for pain for about 3 days, so you can not drive or go to work during this early period of recovery. The pectoral muscle will be inflamed for the first few weeks or months so you'll want to minimize your upper body activity during this time period....
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Duration of Breast Augmentation recovery depends on some circumstances
Time for recovery following augmentation varies depending on circumstances, placement of implants,etc. Some women are able to return to sedentary work after 3-5 days whereas women who have more active occupations may need to miss work for 4-6 weeks. There is definitely more initial pain when implants are placed beneath the muscle. Scars may require 6-12 months to totally fade.
John Whitt, MD
Louisville Plastic Surgeon
Louisville Plastic Surgeon
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Recovery after breast augmentation surgery
Recovery is variable from patient to patient. Most patients feel tired and sore after breast augmentation surgery, but this usually passes in a day or two. Many patients return to work within the week. After a week, most patients have mild fatigue and soreness, but no other significant symptoms.
Surgeons vary in the amount of time they restrict their patients from exercising postoperatively. I ask my patients to refrain from all vigorous exercise for 2 weeks postoperatively and from all...
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Sam Jejurikar, MD
Dallas Plastic Surgeon
Dallas Plastic Surgeon
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Breast augmentation recovery
Breast implant surgery is usually followed by some short-term discomfort that is usually easily controlled with medication or pain pump. A small amount of bruising and swelling is also usually mild and resolves in a short period of time. You can shower the day after surgery, and can often resume your normal routine shortly after your breast augmentation.
Several modalities are currently being used to modulate pain- form oral medications to pain pumps, to the Actipatch which I use routinely...
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Adam David Lowenstein, MD
Santa Barbara Plastic Surgeon
Santa Barbara Plastic Surgeon
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Recovery from breast augmentation
When you wake up, you'll probably feel as if your breasts are pushed up to your chin. Part of this is imaginary. As to the parts that's real, dont panic: The swelling goes down in about two weeks. If you have a subpectoral implant, you'll likely feel some pain, because the muscle has been stretched to accomidate the implant. Most patients of mine who have had submammary implants, on the other hand, report no discomfort.
Since surgeons never agree on anything, post-op routines vary. Some...
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Michelle Copeland, MD, DMD
New York Plastic Surgeon
New York Plastic Surgeon
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Recovery from breast augmentation
It usually takes 4-6 weeks to recover from breast augmentation surgery. By recovery, I mean starting upper body exercises. There is obviously some individual variability, but I recommend refraining from any upper body activity or exercise for at least 4 weeks.
If you work and your work requires no lifting over 5 pounds, or rapid upper body movement, you may return to work in a week.
Michael A. Jazayeri, MD
Santa Ana Plastic Surgeon
Santa Ana Plastic Surgeon
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Recovery from Breast Augmentation Surgery
After breast augmentation, most patients experience the most discomfort for 3-4 days. The main complaint is a feeling of tightness or pressure to the chest similar to engorgement. Pain medication usually keeps your pain controlled. Swelling is present for 2 weeks then subsides. You should be able to drive approximately 4-5 days after surgery. You can not lift, push, or pull objects with your arms for 4 weeks. You may experience nipple sensitivity for 2-4 weeks. You must wear a supportive bra...
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Recovery After Breast Augmentation
There are many factors that can improve postoperative recovery after breast augmentation. One of the most important is the use of intercostal, intraoperative, and breast parenchymal tumescent block during surgery. These will improve pain in the postoperative period. Usually, patients will resume activity within several days and will experience some discomfort for one to two weeks. Heavy lifting should be discouraged for the same period.
Raffy Karamanoukian, MD
Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon
Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon
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Healing your breast augmentation
After breast augmentation can expect, with some variation:
1) Discomfort from the muscle dissection for about the first 3-5 days.
2) Swelling, and maybe some mild bruising, for about the first 2 weeks.
3) No heavy lifting with arms (including lifting kids) for the first month.
4) To start light aerobic activity after 2 weeks.
5) To be back to full activity after the first month.
6) Scars will be thickest around 2-3 weeks after surgery.
7) Scars will be about 80% healed and matured 2 months...
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Recovering from Breast Implant Surgery
After your breast implant surgery you're likely to feel tired and sore for a few days following your surgery, but you'll be up and around in 24 to 48 hours. Most of your discomfort can be controlled by prescribed medication.
You may also experience a burning sensation in your nipples for about two weeks, but this will subside as bruising fades.
Your stitches will come out in a week to 10 days, but the swelling in your breasts may take three to five weeks to disappear.
You should be able to...
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Usha Rajagopal, MD
San Francisco Plastic Surgeon
San Francisco Plastic Surgeon
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Recovery after Breast Augmentation
It is most important that you choose a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to perform your breast augmentation surgery. If it is not done correctly, it could affect your recovery time. Most patients recover within 2 to 4 days afterwards. There will be swelling and bruising which can last for a couple of weeks. I recommend keeping your elbows to your sides for about 1 week to help let the area heal. Also avoid any heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for about 4-6 weeks. You are required to wear...
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