Breast augmentation is one of the most sought-after and confidence-boosting cosmetic procedures an individual could choose. Before considering a breast augmentation, many people are curious about the recovery timeline. While the recovery timeline varies from person to person, the overall process and tips for recovery are relatively the same. Being informed about the entire recovery process before you choose the procedure can help set you at ease and prepare you for success.

Dr. Bryan Armijo is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has conducted many successful breast augmentation procedures throughout his illustrious career in Dallas, TX. In this blog, we will discuss everything you should know about the recovery stages following your breast enhancement surgery so that you can have a safe and fast recovery.

What Happens Immediately After Breast Augmentation Surgery?

Immediately following breast augmentation, you’ll remain in the recovery room until you’ve woken from anesthesia. Breast augmentations are typically performed as outpatient procedures, meaning you can return home the same day as your procedures as long as you aren’t experiencing any side effects of the anesthesia or any rare complications from surgery.

Upon your release, you may still be experiencing some lingering side effects of the anesthesia and should arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you home. Also, ensure someone can stay with you during the first few days to assist you with daily tasks.

What Should You Expect During the First Week of Recovery?

During the first week of your recovery, you’ll need to focus on getting plenty of rest and hydration. Before your surgery, set up a comfortable area with extra pillows and blankets to ensure optimal comfort. Have water and nutritious snacks close by to avoid reaching or bending over. You should have plenty of entertainment, including books, movies, or television shows, to keep you occupied when you’re awake.

The first week of your breast augmentation recovery is typically considered the most uncomfortable phase; however, discomfort can be managed with prescription painkillers. Bruising, swelling, and tenderness around the breasts and chest will be at their worst during the first week. These effects will also start to resolve after the first week.

While you should avoid strenuous activities, Dr. Armijo encourages light walking around the house as soon as you’re feeling up to it. This promotes healthy blood flow and prevents blood clots.

What Are the Milestones in the First Month After Surgery?

During the first months of your breast implant recovery, you will gradually be able to resume normal activities. Most women can return to work one or two weeks into their recovery. However, if your job requires heavy lifting or strenuous physical activities, Dr. Armijo recommends taking additional time to rest to ensure sufficient healing.

During the first month of recovery, discomfort, bruising, and swelling will begin to subside. Dr. Armijo will continue to monitor your recovery and advise you when it is safe to resume all normal activities and light exercise. You can begin reintroducing light cardio activities into your daily routine at this point, but you should continue avoiding strenuous activities or heavy lifting.

When Can You Resume Normal Activities and Exercise?

After about four weeks, many women can resume intense cardio and lower body exercises. However, you should continue avoiding chest exercises and heavy lifting until you’re roughly six weeks into your recovery.

How Long Does It Take for Swelling to Subside Completely?

The majority of swelling after breast augmentation should subside by around weeks four to six after your procedure. Still, Dr. Armijo reminds patients that some mild swelling, firmness, and a higher-than-normal breast position are normal and may take up to three to six months to fully resolve. Around the three-month mark, patients will be able to fully appreciate their newly enhanced breast augmentation results.

To help reduce swelling, Dr. Armijo recommends that patients wear their supportive compression bra consistently. These bras are made specifically to help lymph node drainage and minimize swelling. Except for bathing, you should wear this bra at all times.

What Are the Signs of Complications to Watch For?

Although a high percentage of breast augmentation operations are extremely successful, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with surgery so that you can bring them to Dr. Armijo’s attention immediately.

In the first few weeks, the most likely risk is an infection in your breast tissue. Signs of an infection include soreness, swelling, heat, and deep redness around the incisions. Consult with Dr. Armijo immediately if you notice any of these changes during your recovery.

Another common risk associated with breast enlargement procedures is capsular contraction, which is hardened scar tissue that forms around the implant and builds up over time. This condition can become incredibly uncomfortable and affect the results you were trying to achieve with a breast augmentation.

Dr. Armijo uses a “no touch” technique when performing breast augmentation procedures to help minimize the risk of capsular contracture and implant contamination, which can cause infection. A “no touch” breast augmentation allows Dr. Armijo to insert the breast implant without anyone touching or contaminating it. This method employs a cone-shaped device called a Keller Funnel. It allows for a smaller incision to insert the implants, and it is incredibly effective at minimizing the risk of post-surgical complications.

When Will You See the Final Results of Your Breast Augmentation?

Although you’ll see and feel an immediate difference in your breasts after your implants are placed, you’ll have to practice a bit of patience when it comes to seeing your final results. After about two to three months, most patients gain a better sense of what their final breast size will look like and how new clothing or bras will fit.

What Follow-up Visits Are Necessary After Surgery?

Your safety and the success of your procedure are at the top of Dr. Armijo’s list of concerns when conducting your breast augmentation. For that reason, you’ll have mandatory follow-up appointments a few days after your surgery to check on your incisions and swelling. You’ll then have a one-week post-op appointment where he will assess whether continuing to wear a compression garment is necessary. You’ll have regular virtual check-ins, but your next follow-up appointment will likely be six weeks into your recovery. Dr. Armijo will evaluate the position of your implants and decide the final steps to reach your aesthetic goals.

Then you’ll have a six-month follow-up appointment with Dr. Armijo to evaluate your implants’ positions. By this time, you should be able to enjoy the full results of your Dallas breast augmentation.

Let’s Discuss Your Breast Augmentation Goals!

Now that you’re equipped with the proper knowledge surrounding breast augmentation surgery and recovery, you can confidently schedule your procedure. During your consultation, it’s important to ask Dr. Armijo as many questions as you need and voice your concerns.Contact or call (214) 540-1434 to schedule your breast augmentation consultation with Bryan S. Armijo, M.D. in Dallas, TX today!