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7 Tips for a Smooth Recovery After Cosmetic Breast Surgery
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Undergoing cosmetic breast surgery, whether it’s breast augmentation, breast lift or breast reduction, is a significant decision that requires careful planning and consideration. While the surgical procedure itself is essential, facilitating a smooth and comfortable recovery is equally important to ensure proper healing, minimize the risks of complications and achieve optimal results.
In this guide to recovery, we’ll provide you with seven essential tips to help you navigate the process after cosmetic breast surgery for the best possible outcome.
1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Postoperative Instructions
One of the most important steps you can take to maximize your odds of having a smooth recovery and ideal results after cosmetic breast surgery is to follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions closely. These instructions are designed to promote healing, reduce the risk of complications and optimize your results while being tailored to your specific procedure and medical history.
Be sure to avoid any restricted physical activity and perform wound care as outlined by your plastic surgeon. If there are restrictions on smoking and vaping—absolutely follow them.
2. Take Time to Rest and Recover
Recovery from cosmetic breast surgery requires adequate rest and downtime to allow your body to heal correctly and reduce the risks of adverse issues. This may include taking a specified amount of time off from work, household chores, and other responsibilities and avoiding strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise as recommended by your plastic surgeon.
3. Follow Directions When Managing Discomfort
It’s normal to experience some swelling and discomfort in the days following cosmetic breast surgery. Your surgeon will recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe pain medications to help manage your symptoms. Take these medications as directed and don’t hesitate to contact your surgeon if you experience severe or persistent pain that is not relieved by medication. Realize that no medication will make things totally discomfort-free. You will also do much better the quicker you can get off any narcotic pain medication.
4. Wear Compression Garments as Directed
Depending on the type of breast surgery you undergo, your surgeon may recommend wearing a compression garment or surgical bra to provide support and help minimize swelling during the recovery process. It is essential to wear these garments as instructed by your surgeon. These garments can also help to promote faster healing and allow you to feel more comfortable.
5. Maintain a Healthy Diet and Keep Hydrated
Eating a balanced diet, including a lot of animal proteins, and staying hydrated are essential aspects of your recovery period after cosmetic breast surgery. High doses of vitamin C, multivitamins and zinc definitely can help the healing process. Dieting should be avoided for between four and eight weeks following surgery as this can deprive the body of the essentials necessary for appropriate healing.
6. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
You don’t need to impair the body’s ability to heal, which smoking, using nicotine-containing products and drinking alcohol can do. These activities also increase the risk of complications after cosmetic breast surgery. If you smoke cigarettes or marijuana or vape, it is essential to quit at least four weeks before your surgery until at least four weeks after surgery.
You should also avoid alcohol starting from at least ten days prior to surgery until at least ten days after surgery. It can interfere with pain medication and antibiotics as well as increase the risk of bleeding and other complications.
7. Show Up for Your Follow-Up Appointments
Following cosmetic breast surgery, you’ll have follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress, address any concerns and ensure that you’re healing properly. It’s crucial to attend these appointments as scheduled and communicate openly with your surgeon about any symptoms or issues that you may be experiencing. Your surgeon can provide personalized guidance and support to help you navigate the recovery process and achieve your desired results.
Recovery from cosmetic breast surgery requires patience, commitment, and proper self-care. Follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions, take time to rest, manage your discomfort, wear compression garments as directed, maintain a healthy diet, hydrate, avoid smoking or alcohol and attend follow-up appointments to promote a smooth and successful recovery.
In just a relatively short time, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful, natural-looking results of your breast surgery.
Your Scottsdale, Arizona, Cosmetic Breast Specialist
Dr. Steven Turkeltaub is a plastic surgeon in Scottsdale, board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He specializes in cosmetic breast surgeries, including the following:
- Breast augmentation surgery
- Breast lift surgery
- Breast lift and breast augmentation combination
- Breast reduction surgery
- Breast revision procedures including explantation
Call us today at (480) 451-3000 to schedule your cosmetic breast procedure!