How many days after a breast augmentation will I need someone to help care for me?

I recommend at least 4 days of rest with minimal physical activity after having a breast augmentation procedure. You’re like to need the most help during those first 4 days but you may want to plan on taking a longer initial recovery period to ensure that you’re ready to be on your own when your husband goes back to work. Depending on your schedules, you may be able to plan your procedure for later in the week so your husband can take fewer days off work and the weekend can be part of your recovery time.

Because breast augmentation is typically performed using a general anesthetic, you'll need your husband to be available overnight the day of surgery. Some plastic surgeons, including myself, specialize in breast augmentation techniques that minimize trauma and recovery. This rapid recovery approach means that patients can shower and even go out to dinner the day of surgery. If you choose a surgeon who offers rapid recovery, you'll be able to take care of yourself the day after your breast augmentation. If you have children, you'll want to plan for your husband or another adult to take care of running errands and other physical activities for the first few days after surgery.

Thank you very much for your question. Assistance from your husband will be most needed the two to three days after surgery. Initially, you will be tired and sore. Additionally, you cannot drive until you are off pain medications. Heavy lifting, meaning even of children, should be avoided for four to six weeks. Most patients are feeling well enough to resume normal activities in a week or less. Your plastic surgeon can best explain what to expect during your individual breast augmentation recovery. 

Breast augmentation is a much quicker recovery than you would think. I would recommend having someone at home to help you for 2-3 days at most. Most patients are independent after a weekends worth of recovery. Best of luck!

Thank you for your question.  Typically speaking, if a patient has an uneventful recovery experience, in our practice many patients find they are able to return to light office work one week after surgery.With kind regards,Lane F. Smith, M.D., F.A.A.C.S., F.A.O.H.N.S., F.A.B.F.P.R.S.Las Vegas Plastic Surgeon