I'm a hairstylist and getting a breast augmentation with a lift. Is 9 days long enough for recovery?

Question

Im having the rapid recovery. I'm taking 9 days off but I use a blow dryer and round brush on almost every client. Will I be ok with that length of time or should I take more time so I don't ruin my results.

Marshall T. Partington, MD, FACS · Answer

9
days is cutting it close after mastopexy / augmentation, especially if your
clients and livelihood depend on you to not need to reschedule. Why stress?
Plan two weeks minimum.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.  
Typically, my guideline is, the first week is the hardest. By the second week you feel better, at four weeks you feel 100% and at six weeks you can go back to complete normal routines and exercising.  
Four days after surgery, I would be careful as you are still at risk for bleeding. If you are taking any pain medication, I would not drink alcohol.  With my 'Schwartz Rapid Recuperation' recovery, most of my patients are out to dinner the following evening.
The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.  Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic plastic surgery. 
  
Best of luck! 
    
Dr. Schwartz 
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon 
#RealSelf100Surgeon 
#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! The "rapid recovery" breast augmentation is a newer philosophy with many surgeons to expedite activity and expedite recovery following the breast augmentation procedure.  In my practice, utilizing the fast track technique after breast augmentations, women are readily able and doing most things virtually immediately after this procedure. It is the similar techniques as described and is really gaining popularity. She is even recommended to go out for dinner that evening. Pain is minimal and you will likely be on a scheduled antiinflammatory regimen/pain control along with early exercises/range of motion techniques immediately.  However, follow your surgeon's instructions for postoperative care and restrictions, but it is common for most women to resume many of the preoperative activities and duties within a week. I typically restrict heavy lifting and vigorous exercise for approximately 4-6 weeks Swelling and settling of the implant typically occurs over a 6-12 week period along with placement in a compression-type bra for the same time period, while your incisions commonly resolve to its final appearance in up to a year. Hope that this helps! Best wishes for a great result!

Deborah Sillins, MD · Answer

If your implants are being placed under the muscle I would say 9 days would be to soon. I think 2 weeks would be better especially if you have to use a blow dryer.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Specific restrictions will come from your own surgeon. In my practice you could return to work as a hairstylist although there would be some restrictions on how vigorously to use the arms.

Mohammed Alghoul, MD · Answer

Recovery is typically quick after breast augmentation but longer when a lift is added just because you have more incisions with a lift. Generally women who undergo breast augmentation are able to do light activities and even participate in social functions within a few days. As a hairstylist you use your arms all the time and you may feel sore with repetitive movement even 9 days out. I think that you can go back to work after 9 days but you may want to start with a light schedule and see how you feel.

Levi J. Young, MD · Answer

Your total recovery will be longer than 8 days but you'd likely be able to return to work with minimal discomfort after 8 days.  I typically have 4 to 8 weeks of restriction but return to work is usually very quick.

Vasdev Rai, MD · Answer

You should not try to rush after surgery. It can backfire.  Each patient heals at different pace.  In a rare situation a patient may be able to resume hair styling in 9 days.  Realistic expectation will be 3-4 weeks.

Todd C. Case, MD · Answer

Usually, I advise patients to avoid raising their arms over head or stretching out the sides for three weeks.  However, you will need to discuss this with your surgeon,since each surgeon has their own protocol and recommendations.  You will want to follow what your surgeon tells you.

William H. Huffaker, MD (retired) · Answer

Normally I recommend going back to work on the fifth day after breast augmentation surgery. After most surgeries patients don't feel like working a 8-10 hour shift until the fifth day. It is not pain, but lack of stamina after any surgery. Hairstylists are a little different. Using your back and shoulders makes it more difficult. In addition, hairstylists tend to overbook themselves when they return.  I normally recommend 10 days and then, it is best not to over schedule yourself initially. Sure you can go back earlier for a half day if you choose.

I'm a hairstylist and getting a breast augmentation with a lift. Is 9 days long enough for recovery?

Answers (12)

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