When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, breast augmentation can enhance your silhouette in a way that looks natural and beautiful. However, what you do after your surgery also counts towards the overall success of your boob job.
Recovery is a critical part of the breast augmentation process and by not following your surgeon’s specific instructions, you could end up with unnecessary complications.
Just as you take the time to plan your breast augmentation surgery, it’s important to plan your recovery.
Post Boob Job – What to Expect
Even though you can go home on the same day as your surgery, expect to feel tired, slightly nauseous and groggy due to the anaesthetic. It’s for this reason that you need a friend or family member to drive you home.
You will feel discomfort in the chest area and other parts of your body – this is a natural response to a surgical procedure. Know that any swelling and bruising is a normal part of the process. Fortunately, wearing a compression garment will alleviate swelling and reduce discomfort. Wearing this compression garment as instructed by your surgeon is a definite do.
If you’re sent home with drainage tubes, be sure to monitor them closely and return to have them removed at the right time.
According to top boob job specialist in Perth, Dr Anh, you should be able to shower the day after your surgery but you will need to hold off on baths and swims
Life after Your Boob Job
Your breasts are going to be swollen for at least 6 weeks, so don’t be alarmed when it doesn’t disappear after a week or two.
You will be able to return to work after about a week but this depends on your healing process. For those with physically-demanding jobs, additional recovery is required. Light exercise is also encouraged to prevent blood clots and increase blood flow.
Do not start shopping for new clothes and bras until all swelling has dissipated and your implants have settled. You also don’t want to engage in any exercise that could place strain on your chest and arms – give your body time to heal.
Do gradually transition from your compression garment to sports bras and then eventually underwire bras. Underwire bras should be avoided until your results are final as they can affect the incisions sites.
As for any tight-fitting dresses or tops, it’s best to avoid these until you’re fully recovered. Your recovery will be far more pleasant if you wear loose-fitting shirts and tunics.
Nourishing Your Body During Recovery
To keep you comfortable during your recovery, you will receive a prescription for strong painkillers and antibiotics to prevent infection. Limiting your alcohol intake during the first week or two is highly recommended to give your body a chance to recover. Patients are also encouraged to quit smoking or at least cut back for the first 6 weeks.
Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your body during recovery. Limiting your intake of caffeine, sugary drinks and salty foods will really help.
The more fresh fruits, vegetables and lean proteins you eat, the easier it is for your body to get back to normal.
Taking the Next Steps
If you haven’t yet found a surgeon for your procedure, know that this is one part of the boob job process that you should take your time with.
The right surgeon makes all the difference to your results as well as your surgical experience. Fortunately, there is a wealth of information available online that can help you make your decision, including patient reviews and before and after photos.
There’s absolutely no need to schedule your surgery with the first surgeon you consult with either – second opinions are encouraged.
In terms of your recovery, start asking those you are closest to whether they would be willing to assist you after your surgery. Along with having someone to drive you home, it makes a difference to have someone to assist you at home for a night or two. This is especially necessary if you have small children at home. Overall, with the help of the right surgeon and taking all the necessary steps during your recovery, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy beautiful results.