A cosmetic surgery operation is never to be taken lightly. And even if in a large proportion of cases, convalescence is a well-controlled stage, it requires respect for certain precautions in order to be optimal. This is true for all types of interventions, including breast surgery.
How does recovery work after breast augmentation or breast lift, and how can you optimize the process? Here are the answers to your questions!
Tips to support healing after breast surgery
First of all, even if it may seem trivial, a healthy and balanced diet is essential for good healing. It is also preferable to stop using alcohol, vitamins or any natural products at least 2 weeks before and after surgery, in order to reduce the risks of hematoma and bruising.
It is highly recommended to stop smoking, vaping or using drugs 2 weeks before surgery to avoid anesthetic complications and promote better healing. However, breast lift (mastopexy) is not a recommended surgery for smokers, due to the increased risk of skin necrosis.
Risks associated with breast augmentation or surgery
Infections are possible, but extremely rare at Dr. Mario F Bernier’s clinic. Prophylactic antibiotic therapy will be prescribed to reduce this risk.
Another complication that can be related to breast augmentation is fibrous capsule contracture. This is much more common with silicone gel implants than with saline breast implants and occurs when scar tissue tightens, compressing the implant and causing the breast to feel abnormally firm. It can also cause pain. While the risk of capsular contracture is already significantly reduced with saline breast implants, breast augmentation with the endoscopic technique, by axillary approach reduces this risk even further. Indeed, the absence of a scar on the breasts allows breast massage to be performed the day after surgery, thus reducing the risk of hardening of the fibrous capsule.
Recovery time after breast augmentation or lift
After breast augmentation or breast lift, the patient can resume most of her usual activities after one week. Sports activities can be resumed after one month. Generally, the patient can resume driving after 3 to 5 days. During the first month, it is recommended to only take showers and avoid baths and swimming. The same applies to air travel: you should avoid flying for 4 weeks before and after surgery.
All of these precautions should be adapted according to your general state of health. But by respecting them and taking care of yourself, you should be able to enjoy wonderful results after a few months.
Concerns about recovery?
During this period, which can contain its share of worries, you are not alone. Your specialist must follow up with you, reassure you and intervene in the event of an unusual reaction from your body. This kindness is a strength of the teams at Dr. Mario F. Bernier’s clinic. Because the path to the result is as important as the result itself, you can count on them at all times.