A breast augmentation is a fantastic way to increase the size of your breasts and give you the shape that you have always desired. However, it is a surgical procedure that means that you need to allow yourself time to heal and recover afterward. Not doing so could increase your risk of developing complications and could even prevent you from achieving the optimal results from your surgery.

Your breast augmentation surgeon and surgical team will give you very precise instructions to follow relating to your recovery, and it is crucial that you adhere to these. They should also make themselves available should you have any concerns during your recovery period that cannot wait for your follow-up appointment. In the meantime, here are the top tips that you need to make sure that your recovery from breast augmentation surgery is as smooth and straightforward as possible.
 

Don’t delay taking your pain medications

Taking pain relief is something that many people would prefer to avoid if they could. Nevertheless, it is completely normal to experience what can be significant discomfort following breast augmentation surgery, and you will almost certainly need to use some medication to keep you feeling comfortable. Delaying taking pain medication can actually inhibit the recovery process as healing takes longer when our bodies are battling pain. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you take any pain relief that you are prescribed exactly as directed and before the discomfort becomes unbearable. Most patients are only reliant on prescription drugs for a few days before regular paracetamol becomes sufficient.
 

Don’t cut corners with your post-surgical garments

After breast augmentation surgery, your new breasts will be wrapped in a compression garment which will stimulate blood flow, reduces swelling and helps with the healing process. It is essential that you wear this compression garment for the duration that is recommended. After this time, you will be able to move onto wearing a surgical bra. Again, it is essential that you wear this as directed by your surgical team as it will offer the correct support your breasts need as they settle into their new position. Regular bras won’t cut it!
 

Schedule time off

When you’ve got a busy, hectic lifestyle and a lot of responsibilities, the prospect of taking time off can be daunting. However, you absolutely must commit to allowing yourself at least a couple of weeks away from work – much longer if you have a physical job. Your surgeon will be able to tell you exactly how long you will need it. You may also need to factor in some help at home, particularly if you have kids. You won’t be able to pick up anything significant, including a baby, for up to six weeks while you heal.
 

Preparation is key

Preparation is key for any successful recovery period. Fortunately, there are lots of things that you can do to get ready ahead of your surgery including:

-         Getting on top of the housework and arranging for someone to come in and take care of it when you are recovering.

-         Preparing healthy, nutritious meals ahead of your procedure and placing them in the freezer. Good food helps with the healing process and you won’t get sick of living on take-out for days or weeks on end.

-         Sort out a pet-sitter if you need one, or someone to take your pet for regular walks.

-         Stock up on over-the-counter pain medications and plenty of bottled water.
 

Follow the exercise instructions set by your surgeon

You may not be able to participate in sports or any moderate exercise for up to six weeks, but you will need to start moving around as soon as possible after your surgery. This is because movement will help the prevent dangerous blood clots from forming and will encourage oxygen into the blood cells which also expedites healing. Be sure to follow the exercise instructions set by your surgeon.

If you’d like more tips and advice on recovering from breast augmentation surgery, please contact our expert team today.