For women considering breast augmentation in Houston, knowing what to expect during recovery can be an important part of the preparation process. We work closely with each patient to make sure their healing process is quick and smooth, so they can return to their daily lives as soon as possible—and with a renewed sense of confidence.
If you are wondering what the recovery timeline looks like for a breast augmentation procedure, we have compiled an overview of each stage to give you a general idea. It’s important to remember that every patient heals at a different pace—and following your doctor’s post-op instructions is essential.
Leading Up to Surgery
- As you prepare for your surgery, taking a few precautions can make a great difference in your recovery.
- Plan for childcare, pet care, and a ride home from from our surgical suite.
- Schedule time off work. Plan to take a few days off if you work in an office, or closer to 2 weeks if your job is physically demanding. Ask your doctor about a specific timeline.
- Purchase supplies. Ice packs, sports bras, comfortable button-up shirts, and so on will be helpful to have on hand.
- Eat a healthy diet. Avoiding sodium and focusing on nutrient-rich foods will give your body a solid foundation for the healing process. Staying hydrated with plenty of fluids is also essential.
- Avoid eating or drinking for 12 hours before your surgery. Focus on relaxation and getting plenty of good rest.
Immediately After Surgery
You should be up and walking on the same day of your surgery. Light, assisted activity improves circulation and kick-starts the healing process. It is normal to experience discomfort, swelling, and fatigue for the first 24 to 48 hours. You may feel soreness or tightness, and we will prescribe medication to help manage this. Make sure to sleep on your back and avoid wearing clothes you have to pull over your head.
Week 1
Your surgical dressings and stitches will be removed after a few days and replaced with a special surgical compression bra. Typically, you will be able to shower 3 to 7 days after surgery. Your skin may continue to feel tight as it adjusts to the new volume, but this feeling, and any discoloration or swelling, will continue to fade.
Weeks 2 and 3
At this point, you will likely begin to feel like your usual self and may be able to perform daily activities without discomfort. Continue to avoid vigorous activity or exercise. Typically, incisions fully heal around the 2-week mark, although your time line may vary.
Weeks 4 and 5
You should now have healed enough to gradually resume your normal exercise routine. However, exercises and activities like golf, tennis, etc. that specifically target the chest should still be avoided. Keep in mind that everyone heals at their own pace and listening to your body is an important part of the recovery process. Do not overexert yourself.
Week 6
The 6-week point usually marks the completion of the recovery process as most of the bruising and swelling of the breasts subsides by then. Your doctor may clear you to exercise without restraint, sleep on your abdomen and sides, or wear an underwire bra. Always use sunscreen on your scars and follow any additional instructions given by your doctor.
Closely following your doctor’s post-op instructions is a great way to take an active role in your recovery and make sure you heal quickly and effectively. The better care you take of yourself following your surgery, the more attractive and long-lasting your results will be.
If you are ready to learn more about breast augmentation in Houston, we look forward to meeting with you. You can contact us using the online form to request a consultation or call one of our 3 offices to schedule an appointment. Call (281) 282-9555 (Clear Lake) or (713) 521-4777 (Houston).
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