How long after a breast augmentation can I return to work if I work in a deli kitchen that is extremely physical?

Question

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Hi and thanks for your question!
Typically you may return to work as soon as you are able and feeling okay. You may not do any heavy lifting for 3 weeks. Check with your surgeon for his or her guidelines and restrictions. Best of luck!

Sam Speron, MD, FACS · Answer

It is very common for women to want a breast augmentation and ask about their recovery and when they can start work after surgery.

Obviously the body heals with swelling and inflammation and usually that maxes out at two days and then starts getting better. Most of these patients take no pain medicine (because of the nerve blocks given during surgery) and usually feel very comfortable going out in public the same or next days.  I usually call my patients the night of surgery and check on them in person the next day. If everything is fine the next day, I then let them shower and they do not need a dressing over their incisions.  At the two week check up, I usually have people start working out and then after six weeks they can do whatever they want.

I routinely tell people to take a few days to a week off work and to hide out but some people are very nervous especially celebrities and they might hide out for two weeks. As with any scar on the human body, initially scars are red, hard and raised and it typically takes six months to a year for them to become a soft thin white line.

Additionally with recovery, there're many things we do to expedite healing such as nerve blocks during surgery, oral supplements, skin care and scar therapy recommendations, lymphatic massage sessions that are included in our pricing.

I strongly feel that it's very important to have an honest conversation with your surgeon about your particular situation, lifestyle, work environment and specifically which procedures you're having done so that you both have the most honest answer about your recovery and are realistic with expectations and results.

I would recommend that you see a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area that is a member of both ASPS & ASAPS and performs a lot of silicone breast implants. Good luck with your future surgery!

I hope this helps answer your question. If it does, please take a moment to up vote this answer on the “respond” button on the top right.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

In general, I instruct patients to refrain from lifting overhead, or greater than 15 pounds, for 3 weeks postop. Some patients may recover more quickly, and some may take more time. The patient usually has 2 to 3 days of pain during which the patient takes pain pills to provide relief. Thereafter, most patients do not need the narcotics.
Patients can return to work within 1 to 3 days or whenever they feel is appropriate. I recommend no breast massage and do not want my patients to exercise for 4 weeks after surgery. You should follow the post-operative guidelines recommended by the board certified PS who performs your BAM. Listen to your body and adjust your activities as warranted.

Jonathan Saunders, MD · Answer

I don't know exactly what you do, but hair stylists and waitresses go back in 10 days for me. they still may need some help with heavy lifting.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cecpolzin,
the majority of breast augmentation patients need one week of downtime. Depending on the work environment (heavy lifting, etc) more time off may be necessary. Patients are encouraged to walk immediately after surgery to avoid blood clots in the legs.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

How long after a breast augmentation can I return to work if I work in a deli kitchen that is extremely physical?

Answers (7)

Answer: BBA

Answer: BBA

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

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How long after a breast augmentation can I return to work if I work in a deli kitchen that is extremely physical?

Answers (7)

Answer: BBA

Answer: BBA

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.