The outcome of breast lift surgery (mastopexy) can often be determined by how well you adhere to the aftercare instructions provided by your doctor. You must take all the necessary precautions post-procedure to achieve the best possible results.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most effective tips to keep in mind to help make your breast lift recovery process as smooth and straightforward as possible.

Our body contouring specialist at the CREO Clinic, Dr Omar Tillo, specialises in breast lift surgery. With years of experience in the field, he has the skills and expertise to design a bespoke treatment plan according to each patient’s desired aesthetic.

Don’t Wear a Bra With a Wire

You will need to wear a compression garment during the first six weeks of recovery and avoid wearing bras containing a wire. This helps to minimise swelling and improve blood flow in the area. Wearing a compression bra can also help keep the breasts in proper alignment, allowing the tissue to settle naturally.

Sleep Only On Your Back

Avoid sleeping on your stomach or placing any added pressure on your chest, as this will strain your breasts and may impact the healing of your incisions. Aim to sleep on your back, with a few pillows propped up underneath your head to promote blood circulation.

Take At Least Two Weeks Off Work

Aim to take at least two weeks off work to give yourself the best chance of making a speedy recovery. This is particularly important if your job involves considerable strenuous physical activity (which should be avoided for six weeks).

Eat a Healthy Diet

You must provide your body with healthy foods rich in vitamins and minerals to help fuel the recovery process. Also, try to consume plenty of fibre and vitamin K-rich foods to help reduce swelling and encourage wound healing.

Working with a nutritionist before and after surgery can help optimise recovery.

Avoid Strenuous Exercise

You should avoid strenuous exercise for at least six weeks after mastopexy. Any activity involving heavy lifting or intense physical training can place a significant amount of stress on your chest and may impact the healing of your breasts.

Go on Slow Walks For Circulation

Light and gentle exercise, such as a slow walk, can increase your circulation, reducing the chance of blood clots and improving lymphatic drainage. This can also be good for your mental health, as it raises your heart rate and increases endorphins.

Avoid Alcohol and Smoking

Both alcohol and smoking can harm your healing. Smoking is particularly damaging as it can reduce the blood supply to your wounds and delay recovery.

Therefore, it’s important to avoid smoking for at least four weeks before and after surgery, while alcohol should be consumed in moderation (no binge drinking) during the same timescale.

Be Gentle With Incisions

Keep your incisions clean and dry, and inspect them daily for signs of infection. Furthermore, when showering during the early stages of recovery, avoid aiming the water directly at your chest, as this can place unnecessary pressure on the incision sites.

It’s worth noting that once you’re able to resume bathing after a month, be careful to avoid over-scrubbing around the surgical site, as this may lead to wound breakdown.

Monitor For Any Complications

It’s important to keep track of any unusual changes. For example, if you experience any bleeding, discharge, or increased bruising and swelling, contact your surgeon immediately.

Prioritise Follow-Up Appointments

Here at the CREO Clinic we’ll ask you to come in for at least three follow-up visits. Never skip these appointments, as Dr Tillo will monitor your results and make sure there are no signs of post-procedure infection.

Schedule a Consultation With CREO Clinic Today

Contact the CREO Clinic today if you’re interested in breast lift surgery and no longer feel apprehensive about the recovery process.

Our double board-certified surgeon, Dr Omar Tillo, specialises in all types of breast lift surgery, and will be able to design a bespoke treatment plan for you.