Top Oakland County Surgeon Explains Recovery After Breast Implant Surgery
Embarking on the journey of breast implant surgery is an exciting and transformative experience. While the procedure itself is a crucial step, the postoperative period plays a vital role in ensuring optimal results and a smooth recovery. Understanding and adhering to the post-surgery procedures prescribed by Dr. Ali is a key element in achieving the best outcome and the fastest recovery.
This article will answer specific questions about what to expect after the breast implant surgery itself. If you are considering breast implant surgery for breast enhancement, you may also want to read our Breast Implant FAQs HERE, and our description of the Breast Implant Surgical Process HERE.
Oakland County Board Certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has performed thousands of breast implant surgeries. Remember that every patient is unique and every surgery is different – so the information offered on breast implant surgery recovery in this article is general in nature. During your breast implant surgery consultation Dr. Ali will answer your questions about the recovery process as it specifically applies to your situation.
How long do my bandages stay on after breast implant surgery?
You will receive instructions for your post-surgery care and follow-up appointments from Dr. Ali’s office. Typically you can take the gauze off after the first day. But tape or adhesive strips directly on the incision, should only be removed by the Dr.’s staff. Sometimes, however they may fall off by themselves.
If Dr. Ali recommends an ACE bandage for gentle compression and comfort, you can generally continue to use it until you transition into a soft bra. Most of our patients wear a soft sports bra for the first few weeks following breast implant surgery.
Each patient is different. Dr. Ali will provide you with detailed instructions for your after-care.
How much pain is there after breast implant surgery?
The pain associated with breast implant surgery will vary from woman to woman. Each person has a different pain tolerance. And every patient’s surgery will be performed slightly differently, based on their body type and implant choice. Different surgical methods and techniques will have different sizes and locations of incisions which will affect bot the amount of discomfort and the length of recovery.
Pain after any surgery – including breast enhancement – is always worse in the first few days after surgery. But the discomfort after breast implant surgery tends to rapidly improve.
Skilled and experienced Oakland County breast implant surgeon Dr. Ali will do everything possible to minimize your pain and ensure the most comfortable recovery possible. This includes making the smallest incisions possible, and prescribing the most effective pain medication. Typically, by the end of the first week (or before) you will only need Tylenol or Motrin to manage any pain.
Dr. Ali’s thousands of satisfied breast implant patients almost unanimously agree that any short-term pain or discomfort was well worth it to have their new, beautiful breasts.
When will my breasts look “normal” after breast implant surgery?
Keep in mind that swelling is a normal part of the healing process. So your breasts may initially look larger than you expected after the surgery, due to swelling.
The swelling generally peaks around 48 hours after surgery, then begins to rapidly decrease. After the first few weeks, 50% of the swelling is typically gone. And by around 6 to 8 weeks after surgery, most of the swelling should have diminished. At six months, almost all the swelling is generally gone.
Bruising will be worse the day after surgery, and then rapidly improve. By two weeks after breast implant surgery the bruising should be gone. Do not be alarmed if you experience a burning sensation in your nipples at first. This is very normal and may last up to two weeks, but will subside along with the bruising. Your pain medication should manage this.
What restrictions will be on me after breast implant surgery?
Dr. Ali will provide you with detailed information on what to expect during the healing process during your consultation. And he will send you home with detailed instructions regarding any restrictions.
Immediately after breast implant surgery, driving is restricted due to the lingering effects of anesthesia and potential discomfort. So you will need to arrange for someone to be there to drive you home after your breast implant surgery. Patients are typically advised to refrain from driving for at least one to two weeks or until they feel comfortable and can perform emergency maneuvers without pain or restriction.
Generally, a person can shower the day after surgery. While keeping the incisions clean is crucial, it’s recommended to avoid submerging the incisions in water for a specified period. You should not take a bath, use a hot-tub, go swimming, or immerse your incisions for at least a week and possibly longer depending upon your aftercare instructions.
The patient should generally engage in minimal activity for the first two days after breast implant surgery. Within three to five days, most women are able to leave the house for short trips and light walks. Dr. Ali will typically advise patients that strenuous activities or those that elevate the heart rate – jogging, weight-lifting, sex, heavy lifting, etc. – should not be done until 3 to 4 weeks after breast implant surgery. And some patients may be encouraged to avoid such activities for at least four to six weeks post-surgery.
Optimal healing is facilitated by proper sleep positioning. Following breast implant surgery, patients are typically advised to sleep on their backs with their upper bodies elevated for the first few weeks. This minimizes pressure on the chest and also helps reduce swelling.
As with any surgery, the duration of time before returning to work varies depending on the nature of the job, the extent of the surgery, and the individual patient’s recovery. While some individuals may resume office work or work-from-home computer duties within a week, jobs involving physical exertion or heavy lifting may require significantly more extended time off.
Breast Implant Surgery Follow-Up Appointments
Attending your scheduled follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon is crucial for monitoring progress and addressing any concerns during the recovery period. These appointments provide an opportunity for Dr. Ali to to assess your healing, remove sutures if necessary, and guide you on what activities you may resume as well as any next steps.
Adhering to Dr. Ali’s post-operative instructions and recommendations are essential for the fastest and most comfortable recovery process. Skilled and experienced Oakland County breast implant surgeon Dr. Ali is dedicated to providing comprehensive guidance throughout every stage of your breast augmentation journey, including the critical postoperative period.
Top Rated Oakland County Breast Implant Surgery
Top plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has provided breast implant surgery for thousands of satisfied patients across Oakland County. If you are considering breast implant surgery, he will be happy to offer you a consultation to answer any additional questions you may have.
Feel beautiful inside and out, with breast implant surgery. And remember, financing options are also available.
