Generally, breast augmentation surgery is a very well-tolerated operation these days. Having said that, most patients benefit from lots of help from family/friends for the first 2 to 4 days. Attention to adequate help, rest, pain control, hydration, good nutrition, resumption of bowel movements will all be important. Careful attention to postoperative instructions provided by your plastic surgeon and close communication with your plastic surgeon in the event of concerns/questions will also be important. In my practice, I ask patients to keep the surgical bra on, keep their elbows by their sides, and have lots of help when it comes to getting in and out of bed or recliner. Early ambulation, breathing exercises, and attention to concerns such as avoidance of nausea and resumption of bowel movements are all encouraged. On average, I ask patients to take off 5 days to 1 week after breast augmentation surgery (desk job). For some professions, I may suggest a going back to work with a lighter workload (or in your case, having someone else do the lifting etc.. that would involve the pectoralis muscle). Ideally, I ask patients not to lift anything heavy or do things ( like pulling/pushing) that contract the pectoralis musle for at least 3 weeks. Patients are able to return to running and heavier lifting 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. I ask my patients to stay away from "pectorals major" activity such as push-ups and bench press for several months. Ultimately, it will be important for you to “listen to your body”, apply common sense, and return to activities/exercises in a gradual fashion. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.