Breast Surgery Post-Op

You will be able to go home once the anesthesia wears off and you are able to walk, drink, and use the restroom safely. A bulky gauze dressing will be wrapped around the breasts and chest or you may have to wear a surgical bra. Drainage tubes will also be attached to the breasts.

Your surgeon may recommend massaging the areas 5-7 days after the surgery. This helps reduce the hardening of the capsule around the implant. You should always consult your doctor before massaging implants.

Immediately after the procedure the breasts will be covered with gauze or bandages, and a tube may be placed under the arms to drain excess fluid and blood. You will also be prescribed pain medication and antibiotics.

The following steps will allow for aftercare to be more comfortable and less tedious.

In the first few days after the procedure:

• The breasts will be tender and feel sensitive
• The breasts may be swollen and bruised
• It might be recommended that you wear an elastic compression brazier to protect the breasts
• You will need to limit physical activity for at least two to four weeks
• It might be recommended that you avoid underwire bras
• Avoid lifting and physical exercise
• Sleep in an elevated position
• Maintain a balanced diet
• Stay hydrated
• Avoid baths
• Refrain from sexual activity
• Avoid smoking
• Get a lot of rest
• Eat foods rich in antioxidants, omega 3, and protein

You should contact your doctor at Highlands Ranch Office Phone Number 303-470-3400 immediately if:

• There are any signs of infection
• There is any unusual discharge at the incision site
• If any of the stitches come out before time
• Experience pain that does not stop after taking medication

What Medications Will I Be Prescribed?

• Your doctor will advise you if and when you can restart your medication, and provide instructions on taking new ones.
• If antibiotics are prescribed take them as directed until the course is complete.
• Take pain medication as directed, if none is prescribed, enquire as to whether you can take an over the counter drug.

Can I Exercise?

• Try to walk each day. Increasing the amount bit by bit
• Avoid strenuous activities such as bicycle riding, weight lifting, and aerobic exercise
• Consult your doctor about when you can begin normal activities

Recovery Timeline

As the anesthetic wears off the patient will receive pain killers. They will not be able to drive so they should arrange for a friend or family member to take them home.

Absorbable or dissolvable sutures tend to disappear within six weeks. If the patient does not have dissolvable sutures or if drainage tubes are inserted a follow up appointed will be needed to remove same. Breast implants do not last indefinitely, and it is very likely that they will have to be replaced at some time in the future.

After 1 or 2 weeks: Your stitches will be removed (unless you had dissolvable stitches).

After 6 weeks: You should be able to return to most of your normal activities. Your scars should also start to fade.

After a few months: Your breasts should start to look and feel more natural. You may be able to stop wearing your sports bra.