Although current aesthetic trends lean towards natural-looking breasts, breast augmentation remains one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the United States. Patients may choose a more exaggerated augmentation with a lifted appearance, or they may choose a more natural shape thanks to the invention of more nuanced breast implants in recent years. Either way, your recovery after breast augmentation is a vital part of the process that will set the stage for years to come.
In regard to any plastic surgery, your Beverly Hills plastic surgeon is concerned with longevity as well as your initial results. Therefore, the way you approach recovery is very important. The topic will form a significant part of the conversations you have with your plastic surgeon as you prepare for your procedure. Still, it helps to begin the process with a good idea of what you can expect after your breast augmentation in Beverly Hills.
After Breast Augmentation: Immediately After Surgery
When you first wake up from surgery, you can expect to find your breasts secured. Your surgeon may use a gauze wrap, an elastic bandage, or a surgical bra, depending on your needs and your surgeon’s preference. In some cases, you may also notice that you have drainage tubes attached to each breast. This is all perfectly normal, as it ensures your breasts stay in position and can safely drain excess liquid that could otherwise cause complications.
Once you’ve fully recovered from the anesthesia, you will be able to go home as long as everything checks out. You should definitely arrange to have someone drive you home. Also, you will be on pain medications, and it is not recommended that you operate heavy machinery right after surgery. You will still be sore, but you’ll be able to perform all normal bodily functions once you’re home. Eating, drinking, and using the restroom are back on the table, but you won’t be able to shower right away.
In the Days Following Surgery
During the first days and weeks of your recovery, it is vitally important to take all of your surgeon’s instructions seriously. There will be some variation based on the nature of your procedure, so you will want to follow your personalized instructions from your surgeon. Many people will have advice, but it may not be suited to you. In particular, when it comes to giving your body the opportunity it needs to recover, there are four topics you will want to discuss with your surgeon.
- When and if you should clean your incision site
- When it is safe for you to shower normally
- How long you should wear your bandages or surgical bra
- When you can resume normal activity
Generally speaking, the most intense part of your recovery should only last a few days, but you will not be back to “normal” for at least a few weeks. It may be frustrating at first, but taking the proper time to recover is the best way you can ensure that your breasts will still look great five to ten years down the road.
When in Doubt
If you have any doubts or questions, jot them down in a notebook as they come to mind and bring the notebook with you to your next meeting with Dr. Brent. Your breast augmentation is about your body and your happiness, so you want to make sure you are comfortable with the entire process before proceeding. Dr. Brent and his highly trained staff will be able to answer any questions you may have to ensure that you make the right decisions for you at every step along the way.
