After years of practicing plastic surgery in the Appleton and Green Bay area, Dr. Sauerhammer has learned that when it comes to breast augmentation surgery, women like to be as informed as possible before committing to their procedure. And she has also found that women are especially interested in understanding their post-op instructions and restrictions prior to surgery. This includes wanting to know when they will be able to resume their normal activities, like going to the beach or the gym. To help you better comprehend what recovery will be like from a breast augmentation, Dr. Sauerhammer has prepared this list of the top do’s and don’ts after a breast augmentation.
The Do’s
There are several things you should keep in mind after a breast augmentation, including:
- Make sure you have a friend or family member lined up to take you home after your procedure, as they will not be allowed to drive home due to receiving anesthesia for their breast augmentation surgery.
- Coordinate for someone to stay home and help take care of you the first few days after surgery, especially because you will not be able to reach for items that you may need.
- Get ample rest after your breast augmentation surgery.
- Find a comfortable sleeping position. Some women like to sleep on their stomachs, but this will not be allowed when recovering from a breast augmentation. Instead, you can either lay in a recliner or in bed with pillows keeping your back elevated.
- Massage your breasts up, down, in, and out several times a day to prevent capsular contracture.
- Wear loose and comfortable clothing.
- Take your pain medication as prescribed.
- Call Dr. Sauerhammer immediately if your pain persists or if you develop a fever.
The Don’ts
In addition to following the instructions above, you will want to avoid certain activities.
- Do not lift, carry, or push items. This includes not carrying small children if you have them.
- Avoid smoking for at least 4 weeks after your surgery to promote healthy healing.
- Refrain from showering for 24-48 hours. Swimming in any water should be avoided for the first 4 weeks after surgery.
- Wear a bra with an underwire, which can prevent your breast implants from properly falling into place, not to mention be painful.
Learning More About Breast Augmentation Post-Op Instructions
While Dr. Sauerhammer does her very best to provide her patients with as much information about their breast augmentation upfront, the best way to get all of your questions answered is to schedule a consultation. During this consultation, she will perform a full breast examination and listen to your goals. Together, you and Dr. Sauerhammer will determine your breast implant size, shape, profile, and incision type.
For more information or to schedule a consultation today, call (920) 380-9890.