April 18, 2023
Tarek Elhor
Founder of Brussels Surgical · Anesthesiologist and Aesthetic Physician
Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures worldwide. It enhances breast size and shape using implants. Although this procedure is widely practiced, it remains a surgical operation that involves both benefits and risks. Following the correct postoperative guidelines is essential to ensure a smooth recovery and achieve results that meet your expectations. In this article, we outline the key precautions and recommendations to follow after the procedure.
First and foremost, your situation is unique, and it is crucial to follow the specific instructions provided by your plastic surgeon. These will include postoperative care, prescribed medications, restricted activities, and movements to avoid. Always prioritize your surgeon’s guidance over general information found online.
Below are the most common recommendations to help you understand what to expect and prepare adequately before your procedure.
Breast augmentation is often associated with pain during the first few days post-surgery. You may experience muscle cramps and discomfort around the incision sites. Your physician will prescribe painkillers and muscle relaxants to help reduce and manage the discomfort. The most important part of your recovery is rest. Plan to take at least one week off work, ideally up to fifteen days, to allow your body to heal properly.
For the first two to four weeks following the procedure, you must avoid any physical activity that engages the chest muscles, such as lifting heavy objects, making sudden movements, or raising your arms above your head. These actions may impair healing, cause pain, or worsen swelling and bruising. You may experience discomfort when using your arms for up to two months after surgery.
Sports activities are prohibited during the first month, and any exercise involving the pectoral muscles should be avoided for three months. You may resume walking, stretching, or light yoga relatively early, but running, strength training, and swimming must wait. These activities can compromise healing and alter the position of the breast implants.
It is also advised not to drive during the first week. When you resume driving, try to keep your elbows close to your sides and avoid long journeys.
To promote healing, minimize swelling, and help the implants settle properly during recovery, you will need to wear a compression bra for several weeks. Your surgeon will apply it immediately after surgery. The exact duration depends on the implant size, the surgical technique, and your body’s characteristics. Generally, the compression bra must be worn for five to eight weeks.
To support healing, it is important to eat a healthy, nutrient-rich diet and avoid alcohol and tobacco. Focus on foods rich in vitamins and protein, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean meats. Avoid processed, fatty, and sugary foods, which can hinder recovery.
To limit arm movement after surgery, consider preparing meals in advance and freezing them. The more time you allow for rest, the better your body will heal.
Alcohol and tobacco increase the risk of infection and delay the healing of incisions and surrounding tissues. It is best to avoid both for several weeks after surgery.
It is essential to follow all postoperative care instructions provided by your surgeon. Initially, you will need to change the dressings covering the incisions regularly. Once the scar has formed, your surgeon may recommend massaging it with a healing cream. This should be continued for over a year to reduce scar visibility.
It is also important to protect scars from sun exposure for at least one year to prevent them from becoming more noticeable.
You may take warm showers starting on the second day after your breast augmentation. However, you must not take baths, go to the pool or beach, or use saunas or steam rooms for at least one month.
For the first two months after surgery, it is strongly recommended to sleep on your back. You must avoid sleeping on your stomach and refrain from lying on your side. This ensures proper healing, prevents excess pressure on the breasts, and reduces the risk of implant displacement before the surrounding tissue has fully regenerated.
After the first few months, you may return to your preferred sleeping position, although most patients only feel comfortable sleeping on their stomach about one year after the procedure.
Breast augmentation can help enhance your appearance, correct insecurities, and restore self-confidence. However, the recovery phase is just as important as the surgery itself. It is vital to follow the above recommendations and those provided by your surgeon to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.
If you have any concerns or questions after undergoing surgery at Brussels Surgical & Esthetic Center, follow-up appointments are mandatory, and our medical team is available to assist and guide you according to your individual needs.
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