What Not to Do After Breast Augmentation Surgery

Breast augmentation surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures, helping people enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. However, as with any surgical procedure, proper aftercare is crucial for a successful recovery and optimal results. Breast augmentation patients often overlook the importance of proper aftercare due to excitement about the procedure. 

In this post, we’ll explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid following breast augmentation surgery to help you heal smoothly and achieve the best possible outcome.

Preparing for a smooth recovery

Preparing for a smooth recovery after breast augmentation surgery is crucial for achieving optimal results. A healthy and fit body before surgery will recover faster and better. Ensure your body has enough nutrients for surgery to promote better wound healing and reduce the risk of complications. Fast the day of the procedure to minimise the risk of complications. 

Understanding the recovery process after breast augmentation surgery is essential for a successful outcome. The recovery process typically takes two to three weeks, during which time patients may experience swelling, bruising and discomfort. The breasts may feel numb, tingly or sensitive for several weeks. It’s essential to follow a post-operative care plan to ensure proper healing. Patients should attend follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their progress and address any concerns.

Avoid physical strain and intense exercise during breast augmentation recovery

After breast augmentation, your body needs time to heal, and it’s essential to avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, and other physically strenuous activities. Engaging in intense physical activities too soon can increase swelling, put stress on the breast muscle and surgical area, and lead to complications such as bleeding or displacement of the implants.

Your surgeon will likely advise you to refrain from intense physical activities for the first two to three weeks. Light activities, like gentle walking, may be reintroduced gradually as you progress in your recovery. Strenuous exercises, especially those involving the upper body, should typically be avoided for at least six weeks or until your surgeon gives you the go-ahead.

Do not ignore your surgeon’s instructions

Your surgeon’s post-operative instructions are designed to promote healing and minimise the risk of complications during the breast augmentation recovery process. These instructions often include guidelines on medication schedules, wound care, and follow-up appointments. Ignoring these instructions can not only delay your recovery but also increase the risk of infection, implant displacement, or other complications.

Be sure to attend all follow-up appointments, as they provide an opportunity for your surgeon to monitor your healing and address any concerns you may have. Additionally, follow the medication schedule provided to manage pain and reduce the risk of infection effectively. Personalised aftercare is essential for your recovery, so make sure to talk openly with your surgeon if you have any questions or uncertainties.

Don’t sleep on your stomach or side

Sleeping positions play a significant role in the recovery process. After breast augmentation surgery, it is recommended that you sleep on your back with your upper body slightly elevated. This position helps reduce swelling and pressure on the surgical area, allowing the implants to settle comfortably within the breast tissue.

Sleeping on your stomach or side too soon can lead to discomfort, misalignment, and increased pressure on the implants, which can negatively affect the healing process. It is generally advised to maintain the back-sleeping position for at least six weeks, or as directed by your surgeon, to ensure optimal results.

Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption

Both smoking and alcohol consumption can significantly impact your body’s ability to heal. Smoking reduces blood flow, which is crucial for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the healing tissues, and can increase the risk of complications like infections and delayed wound healing. Similarly, alcohol can interfere with medications and impair your body’s natural healing processes.

It’s advisable to abstain from smoking and drink alcohol for a few weeks before and after your surgery. Your surgeon may recommend a specific period of abstinence based on your individual case, so be sure to follow their guidance to support your recovery fully.

Refrain from wearing regular bras too soon

Wearing the right type of bra, such as a post-surgery bra, is essential for proper healing after breast augmentation. Surgical bras are specifically designed to provide gentle support, minimise swelling, and protect the incisions as they heal. Transitioning to regular bras, particularly underwired bras, too soon can cause discomfort and disrupt the positioning of the implants.

Most surgeons recommend wearing a surgical bra for at least six weeks after the procedure. Once your surgeon confirms that you’re ready, you can transition to soft, supportive bras. Avoid underwire bras until your surgeon gives you the green light, as these can irritate the healing incisions.

Avoid sun exposure on scars

Scarring is a natural part of the healing process, but sun exposure can darken and thicken scars, making them more noticeable. Protecting your scars from the sun will help ensure they fade more effectively over time. Direct sun exposure can also slow down the healing process and increase the risk of developing hyperpigmentation.

For the first several months following surgery, keep your scars covered when outside, and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 to the area if exposure is unavoidable. Taking these precautions will help keep your scars less visible and promote smoother healing.

Recovering from breast augmentation surgery requires patience and commitment to following aftercare instructions. Avoiding physical strain, adhering to your surgeon’s guidance, practising proper sleeping positions, abstaining from smoking and alcohol, using appropriate bras, and protecting your scars from sun exposure are all crucial steps to ensure a smooth and successful recovery. By taking these precautions, you can help safeguard your investment in yourself and enjoy the results you desire.

If you have any concerns or questions during your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to your surgeon for support. Following these guidelines will not only aid in a safe recovery but also help you achieve the long-lasting results you’re looking for.

Managing discomfort and swelling

Managing discomfort and swelling after breast augmentation surgery is crucial for a smooth recovery. Patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising after surgery. To manage discomfort, patients can take pain medication as directed by their surgeon. To reduce swelling, patients can use compression garments and follow a post-operative care plan. It’s essential to follow the surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care to ensure proper healing.

Breast implant care and maintenance

Breast implant care and maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity of the implants. Patients should follow their surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care to ensure proper healing. Patients should also attend follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their progress and address any concerns. Additionally, patients should be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with breast implants, such as capsular contracture and implant rupture. Regular check-ups with their surgeon can help identify any potential issues early on.

Pain due to negligence

While proper aftercare helps to experience a successful recovery from breast augmentation surgery, complications can still arise if the procedure itself was performed negligently. Surgical negligence can occur when a surgeon fails to provide the expected standard of care, potentially leading to issues like implant misplacement, infection, or excessive scarring. 

If you believe your recovery challenges are due to negligence during your breast augmentation, you may be entitled to seek compensation. Consulting with a specialist in cosmetic surgery claims can help you understand your options and secure the support you need.

Contact us

If you’re experiencing complications after breast augmentation surgery and suspect negligence may be involved, our expert solicitors at Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors are here to help you secure the compensation you deserve. We have specialised knowledge of cosmetic surgery claims, ensuring a deep understanding of the complexities these cases can entail. By managing the legal aspects of your breast augmentation claim, we allow you to focus on your recovery.

Call us on 0808 115 1116 or complete our online enquiry form to request a callback.