Breast augmentation is the most common plastic surgery in America with 313,735 procedures completed in 2018. While knowing what steps need to be taken pre-procedure, post-procedure care should be top of mind, especially since a loved one will be helping you initially.

There are several different stages to healing after breast augmentation, and the more informed a patient is going into the procedure, the more likely it is that they will be happy with their results. That is why Dr. Leo Lapuerta, a triple-board-certified plastic surgeon with over two decades of experience serving patients in Houston, Pearland, and Katy. Texas, always takes the time to clearly convey to the patient exactly what healing after breast augmentation entails. For those interested in learning more about the stages of healing after breast augmentation before scheduling a consultation, read Dr. Lapuerta’s guide to healing after breast augmentation below.

Follow the Plastic Surgeon’s Precise Instructions

Following the plastic surgeon’s exact postoperative instructions is the most important thing for a patient to do to make sure their healing after breast augmentation is successful. Each individual heals differently, and prior to undergoing breast augmentation surgery, the plastic surgeon will provide detailed instructions that will tell the patient precisely what to do in order to heal best. 

Healing Immediately After the Procedure

In most cases, breast augmentation surgery should take between 1-2 hours. A breast augmentation is typically an outpatient procedure, meaning that most patients will not be required to spend the night at the surgical facility. 

However, that does not mean once a patient leaves the surgical facility they can go right back to their normal, everyday life. There will likely be swelling, bruising, and some discomfort, with any severe pain being treated with the use of prescription medications. Patients will also be asked to wear a support garment, usually an elastic band or a special bra, to help facilitate healing.

In order to reduce swelling, patients are encouraged to sleep upright, typically in an armchair or bed with significant pillow support, for the first night or two following the procedure. Patients will also be asked to move and walk around in order to encourage blood circulation and avoid blood clots. Finally, to encourage proper healing, patients should try to avoid raising their hands above their heads, as this action can lead to an increase in swelling. 

When Will Patients Be Back to Their Normal Selves?

Most patients can go back to work in less than a week, with some fast-healing patients finding that they are healing after breast augmentation surgery so quickly that they feel well enough to return to their job in as little as 48 hours. However, just because most of the discomfort has subsided, that does not mean the patient is in the final stages of healing after breast augmentation. There will still be some swelling as the body continues to recover, and the skin around the breasts can feel tight, sensitive, and itchy. Patients are advised to avoid working out or other vigorous physical activity for at least six to eight weeks following surgery. It usually takes close to three months for the breasts to normalize and fall into their final position. 

Tips for Proper Healing After Breast Augmentation Surgery

Following breast augmentation surgery, patients need to take it upon themselves to do everything possible to facilitate healing and a full recovery. With that in mind, here are some tips to promote proper healing after breast augmentation surgery.

• Set Aside Loose Clothing to Wear

Prior to surgery, make sure to set aside loose clothing to wear in the week following the procedure. The first week may be one filled with rest and some discomfort, so patients are encouraged to plan ahead to make things as easy as possible. Set aside loose-fitting clothes for the week, as doctors recommend not having to do much contorting to fit into anything that may squeeze any part of your body or require much lifting/shifting. 

• Complete Any Housework or Chores Before the Surgery

Everyone has housework or chores they have to do each week. Whether it is paying the bills, picking up groceries, watering plants, or some other task, try to cross those chores off of the to-do list. That way, in the first week of healing after breast augmentation surgery, the patient will have no obligations besides rest and recovery. If certain tasks cannot be accomplished ahead of time, make sure to find a friend, family member, coworker, or neighbor to help complete the task when the time comes.

• Drink Plenty of Water

Make sure to drink lots of water when healing after breast augmentation surgery. Without proper hydration, the impacted area of the body will not receive the oxygen and nutrients it needs to properly heal.

Discuss Healing After Breast Augmentation During a Consultation with Dr. Lapuerta

It is natural to have questions about the stages of healing after breast augmentation. While breast augmentation is a very safe procedure that should not cause considerable pain or discomfort, it is still a surgical procedure and patients should know what to expect.

During a breast augmentation consultation with Dr. Lapuerta, he will make clear exactly what to expect while healing after breast augmentation surgery. Dr. Lapuerta has developed a reputation in Texas as a plastic surgeon who excels at communicating with his patients, using down-to-earth and clear language rather than convoluted medical jargon. He will patiently answer any questions the patient may have, making sure they are well-informed regarding the specifics of the procedure.

For those in Houston, Katy, or Pearland, Texas, interested in learning more or would like to request a breast augmentation consultation with Dr. Lapuerta, contact us today by calling (713) 489-0169.