Recovery for nurses. How long will I need to take off work after a breast augmentation surgery?

A week off from work will be enough after surgery. You should not try to push, pull or lift anything heavier than 10 pounds for the first 6 weeks. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions for after your surgery. Best of luck to you!

Every surgeon has a different recovery protocol and everyone heals differently, with that said, most patients are able to return to work after a few days, as long as the job is non-active (i.e. sitting at a desk), but you mentioned yours is physical and I'm not sure if that involves heavy lifting. You should only raise your arm to shoulder level for the first two weeks to make sure any wounds do not pull open, and you should also avoid lifting objects (or children) heavier than 5 lb during the first two weeks. Soreness and swelling can be expected for a few weeks. Exercise and normal activity can resume typically 6 to 8 weeks after your breast augmentation surgery. I would consult with your plastic surgeon to see what his/her protocol is and what they would recommend for you.

Kamran Azad MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Most nurses do take off a week and then return to light duty with no patient lifting and no CPR. If you need a note for work, please ask your surgeon.