Will I manage to recover from my breast augmentation alone? Any tips?

Question

I thought my mother was going to be on holiday the time I get my operation done as she is a teacher but I forgot she moved to a school with different holidays as the public schools. She can help me every day after work (4 pm), I was just wondering if I will be okay on my own in the first week as many people I see on videos rely heavily on their help. She has taken leave for the day of my operation, so for that day, I am covered. Do you maybe have any tips?

W. Tomasz Majewski, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. I’m glad your mother is able to stay with you the day of your procedure - you need someone there to drive you, administer your medicines and make sure you have what you need for a successful recovery. 
After the first day, there will still be many things that might be difficult for you to do alone. It’d be quite unfortunate if you compromised your recovery because you overextended yourself. 
I’d highly encourage you to ask a friend to stay with you in the first few days, or at least check on you, perhaps during their lunch break each day. 
That said, there are a few things you can do to prepare for times when you will be alone: Stock up on snacks and pre-made or easy-to-prepare meals. Identify clothes that will be easy to wear and keep them in one place. Make sure you have all the prescriptions you need, as well as stool softeners in case of constipation. Take anything that you use regularly and put it in an easy-to-reach place (instead of on a high or low shelf). 
Wishing you a smooth recovery!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi Ittybittytittyjozigirl,
  
Downtime and recovery after breast augmentation surgery varies.
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. When it comes to exercising, it may also vary depending on the type of exercises you are going to perform. 
  
When it comes to traveling, you should discuss this with your surgeon, as he/she is the best person who can give you a go signal when it comes to traveling. I suggest that you follow your plastic surgeon’s post-operative instructions, especially on the level of activity that you can do and your scheduled follow up checkups, for faster and recovery. 
  
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery 
  
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

hello thank you for your question and provided information as well..based on your question, for a good recovery the ideal is to have rest the first 21 days post, cures, do not make efforts, do not handle, do not load heavy objects, do not sleep on the side, use antibiotic cream to clean scar, use bra post operative for 3 months.

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

Karl William Schwarz, MD · Answer

No matter how simple the operation or how healthy the patient is they cannot recover by themselves as they cannot administer their own medications while under the influence of narcotics or recovering from an anesthetic. It is not safe and not wise to do.

Will I manage to recover from my breast augmentation alone? Any tips?

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Answer: Breast Augmentation/Breast Implants/Anatomic Gummy Bear Implants/ Silicone Implants/Breast Implant Revision

Answer: Recover alone?

Answer: Recover alone?

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Will I manage to recover from my breast augmentation alone? Any tips?

Answers (6)

Answer: Breast Augmentation/Breast Implants/Anatomic Gummy Bear Implants/ Silicone Implants/Breast Implant Revision

Answer: Breast Augmentation/Breast Implants/Anatomic Gummy Bear Implants/ Silicone Implants/Breast Implant Revision

Answer: Recover alone?

Answer: Recover alone?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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