Breast Augmentation Recovery Week by Week

Female sleeping on the bed in black garment

Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery that can change how you look, boost your confidence, and give you the upper body you’ve always desired. However, one of the most crucial components of breast augmentation is recovery, the quality of which helps determine the success of the procedure. Knowing what to expect during each week of the breast augmentation recovery period reduces anxiety, allows you to prepare better, contributes to a smooth healing process, and helps ensure the best results. In this blog, we’ll help you take control of your breast augmentation recovery by reviewing each stage, week by week.

5 Min Read

Rest Is Essential

The initial two to three days of recovery following breast augmentation are the toughest, as you will likely experience discomfort. However, most patients are delighted with their results and very happy with their decision to undergo the procedure.

A Time for Rest: You need plenty of rest during the first week. Minimize physical activity and keep your shoulders and chest elevated to reduce swelling. Many surgeons recommend sleeping in a reclined position during this period to avoid any pressure on the breast skin, tissues, and incisions.
Pain Management: Your surgeon will prescribe pain medicine to help with the discomfort. Follow the directions carefully, and don’t take aspirin or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs unless advised by your doctor, as they can cause bleeding.
Compression Garment: Wearing a surgical bra or compression garment is essential to support the implants, control swelling, and aid in healing.

Less Discomfort and More Activity

By the second week, the swelling and bruising should begin to subside, and many patients start to feel more comfortable. At this stage, you can resume some light activities but continue to avoid anything that may strain your chest and put pressure on your incisions.

Incision Care: Keeping the incision areas clean and dry while following your surgeon’s instructions helps to avoid infection. In some cases, you may be advised to massage your breasts to help the implants settle into place properly.
Pain and Swelling: The worst of your discomfort should be over, but you can expect to still feel some tightness in the chest area. Swelling will continue to improve but can take several weeks to go away completely.
Returning to Work: Many women can go back to work at this time unless their job is physically demanding.

Getting Back to Normal and Seeing Early Results

As you enter the second week of recovery, your energy level should be increasing, and you’ll start to see the early results of your surgery.

Light Exercise: At this point, your surgeon may clear you to do light cardio or lower body exercises. But not exercises that target the chest muscles.
Swelling Reduction: By the fourth week, swelling should be almost completely gone, and early results are clear, but remember, the final results will take a bit longer.
Daily Life: You can gradually go back to your daily routine, but always listen to your body and consult your surgeon if you’re unsure about any activities.

Feeling Like Yourself Again

By the third week, most patients feel like they’re almost back to normal, and you’ll feel much more comfortable overall.

Exercise: You can start to do more intense exercise at this stage, but you’ll need your surgeon’s approval before doing any chest exercises or weight lifting.

Final Results

By seven to eight weeks, your breast implants should have begun to settle into place, and most, if not all, of the swelling will be gone, but continue to attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon.

Breast Augmentation Recovery FAQs

How long does it take to recover from breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation recovery takes around two to three weeks for most patients to fully recover, but most of the discomfort and swelling will go away after the first few days.

Should I sleep on my side after breast augmentation?

Most surgeons recommend waiting four to six weeks before sleeping on your side after breast augmentation. Sleeping on your back with your chest slightly elevated will reduce pressure on the breasts and help with healing during the initial recovery period.

When can I start sleeping without a bra after breast augmentation?

Your surgeon will advise you to wear a surgical or compression bra for several weeks after surgery. Generally, most patients can sleep without a bra after six weeks, but follow your surgeon’s guidance.

How long after my breast augmentation can I start driving?

You can drive one to two weeks after surgery as long as you’re not still experiencing significant discomfort or are on prescription pain meds. Always consult your surgeon before getting back behind the wheel.

How long should I sleep with my head and shoulders elevated after breast augmentation?

Sleep with your head and chest elevated for at least one to two weeks after breast augmentation surgery, as this will reduce swelling and prevent pressure on the implants and incisions.

How long after breast augmentation surgery can I swim?

Swimming should be avoided for at least three to four weeks after breast augmentation surgery or until your surgeon clears you. The incisions need time to heal completely to minimize the risk of infection.

How soon after breast augmentation can I consume alcohol or smoke cigarettes?

Avoid alcohol for at least two weeks after breast augmentation surgery, as it can interfere with your healing process. Abstain from nicotine use for at least three to four weeks, as tobacco products can increase the risk of complications.

Breast Enhancement Surgery in Long Island, NY, and Boca Raton, FL

Dr. David Pincus is a board-certified plastic surgeon who offers the highest level of care when performing breast augmentation in Smithtown, New York, and Boca Raton, Florida. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Pincus by calling (631) 352-3556 or filling out our online contact form today.