Breast augmentation is one of the most popular types of cosmetic surgery in the world. However, whilst there is lots of information in relation to the surgery itself, there is little advice available to women on what to expect after the surgery. Hopefully, this article will help to educate you so that you know what to expect.
Immediately After the Surgery
Depending on how you respond to the surgery, you may be allowed to go home on the same day. Some women may, however, be kept in for observation overnight. Immediately after the surgery, you will experience some bruising, pain, and swelling, and you may also feel like your breathing is restricted. This is all completely normal and these symptoms will begin to improve over the next few weeks. Your doctor will usually recommend you to sit in an upright position, and he may also prescribe some medication to help with the swelling. Some surgeries, will also provide you with a recovery bra to wear.
Returning Home
Once you have returned home, you will need to rest and take it easy for a few days. You’ll need to avoid any activities that require you to use your arms or chest excessively, as it could lead to bleeding and further swelling. Your breasts may feel hard and swollen for a time, but this will improve as time goes on. A level of general discomfort is normal, and can be treated with pain relief medication like ibuprofen and paracetamol.
Aftercare Advice
Your surgeon should advise you on how to care for your breasts following surgery. He should give you specific advice regarding the activities you will and won’t be able to do, and should also advise you on the length of time you will need to take off from work. Most surgeons will also arrange post-operative appointments for you, so that they can check their patients’ progress. An average woman will be able to return to her normal activities within six weeks of having the surgery. It is best to wear a well fitted sports bra for this period of time, and longer if required.
When to Seek Help
Although slight pain and discomfort is normal after breast augmentation surgery, you should seek medical help if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Any aching or lumps that are causing you concern
- A fever
- Coloured or smelly discharge
- Deflated breasts
- Excessive swelling
- An intense burning sensation in your breasts
- Red skin surrounding your breasts
- Severe pain in your breasts
- Surgery Results
After six weeks, you should be aware that your breasts may still look a bit unnatural. It is normal for your breasts to feel a bit rigid or taut after the surgery, so try not to worry. You may also notice a difference in sensation – again, this is completely normal, and in most cases the changes in sensation will be temporary. Within a few more months, the skin surrounding your breasts will begin to stretch around the implants, making your breasts look more natural.
