Breast Augmentation Recovery: What You Can Expect Post-Op

Breast augmentation is a popular and highly effective surgery that can permanently improve both the shape and size of your breasts. The different augmentation procedures, such as breast implants, fat transfer and composite breast augmentation all vary in terms of their effects and recovery. 

This article will help inform you of the recovery process and what you can expect from each of these procedures, as well as answering some of the more common queries prospective patients have about breast augmentation treatments.

The CREO Clinic’s Medical Director, Dr. Omar Tillo, is a highly experienced surgeon in the field of breast augmentation – one at the forefront of technical advances in the field, having pioneered his signature composite breast augmentation procedure.

Book a consultation at the CREO Clinic today and find out how Dr. Tillo can improve the shape and size of your breasts.

How Long Is The Breast Augmentation Recovery Process?

The recovery after breast augmentation with implants typically lasts around six weeks, although fat transfer augmentation recovery can vary between 4-6 weeks depending on the number of liposuction areas.

Most patients find they are able to return to work after ten days, then resume their full exercise routine, including strenuous exercise, after six weeks.

What Factors Impact Recovery Time?

Genetics and physical health are two of the most important factors that lead patients to recover different rates, but there are some other factors to consider, such as whether or not you follow the after-care instructions set by your surgeon – following your surgeon’s instructions to the letter is the best way to minimise your recovery time.

In addition, the positioning of the implant can impact your recovery time, with implants placed under the muscle generally taking longer and causing more discomfort in the initial stages of recovery. 

The Different Stages of Breast Augmentation Recovery: What Patients Can Expect

Here is a step-by-step explanation of surgical breast augmentation recovery. For a fat transfer augmentation recovery, you can read our specially dedicated blog here.

1. Post-Operation: Day of Surgery

The first day of your surgery and the days following is when your body will be most tender and you are most likely to experience some pain – Dr. Tillo will prescribe pain medication to alleviate this.

You are also likely to see bruising and swelling at the treatment sites, so you must ensure you are wearing your compression garment (also consider lymphatic drainage massage) to minimise swelling and avoid physical exertion during this period.

2. Stage Two: Two Weeks After Leaving the Hospital

Patients are typically able to return to work after one week of recovery, and in the second week you should be more able to move freely as your bruising and swelling improves. Despite the improvements, it is crucial you continue to avoid exerting yourself too much at this stage, as doing so could interfere with your healing.

3. Stage Three: Recovery Weeks 3-6

Between weeks three and six, you should start to feel much more comfortable moving around and you may be able to return to wearing a bra during the third week. Around the fourth week you should be able to resume most normal activities, including your regular exercise routine. However, you should remain conscious that you are still recovering and should pay attention to your body – try not to overexert yourself if you feel any discomfort.

4. Stage Four: Can Last Between 6 Weeks & 6 Months

After six weeks have passed, you should start to have completely recovered from your breast augmentation. Any residual swelling or bruising should now have dissipated and you should feel comfortable performing any physical activity, including heavy lifting and strenuous exercise.

Between 6-12 weeks you should see the final results of your breast augmentation.

Tips for a Speedy & Safe Breast Augmentation Recovery

Sleep on Your Back

To optimise your recovery, ensure you sleep on your back with your upper half elevated to roughly 30-40° angle. This should help minimise the strain on your breasts as they heal and help you to find a comfortable position for sleep – your body needs plenty of sleep to heal well, especially after surgery.

Wear a Supportive Bra

The CREO Clinic provides patients with a compression bra after augmentation surgery. Make sure to wear this throughout your recovery, as the pressure on the incision sites helps to reduce swelling and make the healing process as comfortable as possible.

Stay Hydrated & Eat Healthy

Your body relies on water to efficiently run the lymphatic system and help you heal optimally. During your recovery, make sure to try and drink between 1.5-2 L of water every day alongside balanced, nutritious meals – a healthy diet and sufficient hydration will give your body everything it needs to recover as quickly as possible.

Take Time Off of Work

It’s important to give yourself time and a comfortable, stress free environment in which to recover, so ensure you take the right amount of time off work for your downtime. In general, patients find they can return to work after 10 days – book the time off well in advance to be certain you will be free of responsibilities and able to dedicate yourself to rest and relaxation.

Reduce Exertion & Avoid Strenuous Exercise

During your recovery – especially in the first days – avoid any unnecessary exertion and strenuous exercise. Putting strain on your incisions could affect their healing and cause you pain, so try to stay in comfortable positions and avoid moving in ways that put pressure on your incisions. You should feel comfortable returning to strenuous exercise after six weeks.

FAQs for Breast Augmentation Recovery

Schedule A Breast Augmentation Consultation with CREO Clinic Today

Contact the CREO Clinic today and book a consultation with Dr. Omar Tillo, our Medical Director and specialist breast augmentation surgeon. His skill and experience allow him to remodel your breasts while minimising discomfort and making your recovery as fast and efficient as possible.