Breast lift surgery is a very popular cosmetic procedure that involves lifting and reshaping the breasts into a more attractive position and appearance. It is most popular among women who have experienced pregnancy, extreme weight fluctuations, or undesirable changes to their breast shape. Before experiencing the full results of their procedure, however, women must go through a recovery lasting about six weeks.
The first part of your breast enhancement lies with your plastic surgeon. From there, the success of your surgery depends upon how well you manage your recovery at home. It’s helpful to have a recovery timeline in front of you so that you know exactly what to expect at each stage.
The Day of Your Surgery
You should be able to return home on the day of your breast lift procedure, but you cannot drive because you will still be recovering from the effects of the anesthesia. So make sure to arrange for someone to drive you home.
Your recovery from breast lift surgery begins the moment you are dressed with gauze and fitted with a surgical support bra. Your surgeon, depending upon the exact technique used in your surgery, may also place small drainage tubes at the incision sites.
You will be advised to avoid sleeping on your front while you’re recovering. Instead, sleep on your side or back. It may be helpful to buy a wedge pillow to encourage you to stay off of your front.
Although you have just undergone surgery, you will likely already note a change in the shape of your breasts. This will not be your final result, as the shape of your breasts will be changing throughout the recovery timeline because of tissue remodeling and a reduction in swelling over time.
First Three Days
Patients often experience the first three days as the most difficult. Your plastic surgeon will have provided you with pain medication to minimize your discomfort; so take them as needed for as long as you are directed.
During the end of the first three days after your breast lift procedure, you may need to return to your surgeon for the removal of bandages and any drainage tubes. You’ll probably need to keep wearing a compression bra for a while longer.
You should be able to begin carefully showering at this stage of your recovery. Focus on remaining hydrated and getting plenty of rest.
One Week After
Although some swelling and bruising will remain, you should note a significant decrease in your pain level at this stage of your recovery. Walk some each day, but avoid lifting, bending, and raising your arms over your head.
You can return to work at this time, assuming your work does not involve strenuous physical activity.
Two Weeks After
Your pain level should be greatly reduced by this time, but you still need to avoid vigorous physical activity, including sex. If your incision sites are healing as expected, you should be able to start taking a bath or shower.
One Month After
Other than taking part in extremely strenuous physical activity, like sports or weightlifting, you should be able to resume your normal routine. You should also be able to stop wearing a support bra.
Six Weeks After
By this time, you can resume vigorous physical activity and sleeping on your front and sides. You can also start wearing an underwire bra again.
Six Months After
By now, your breasts should have settled into their final positions, and your scars will be fading.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure to keep scarring to a minimum, and continue to follow all instructions provided by your plastic surgeon.
