San Antonio Cosmetic Surgery6 Breast Augmentation Recovery Tips

After your breast augmentation surgery, you’ve probably had some time to rest at the clinic, but now it’s time to go home. What comes next? While you have a conversation with your doctor about your recovery, here are some important things to keep in mind for the weeks ahead:

1. The healing diet. Vitamin C, protein, and zinc are the nutrients you need to promote wound healing, according to Lippincott’s Nursing Center. You can get these through multivitamins and nutritional supplements, or eat citrus fruits, green vegetables, meats, and milk products.

2. Avoid strenuous activity. The power of rest and relaxation can’t be stressed enough! You shouldn’t exercise for at least four weeks. No heavy lifting either. Patients should also avoid driving for about a week, since emergency stops can cause pain and discomfort.

3. Care for your wounds. Treat the site of your operation with care. You should avoid getting your wounds wet for one week after the surgery, since moisture can aggravate the incision site and slow the healing process. Sleep on your back or side, and prop yourself with pillows if necessary to remain comfortable.

4. Watch for complications. You should alert your doctor or plastic surgeon immediately if you experience severe pain or unexpected symptoms. These include intense burning sensations, unusual, unexpected or excessive swelling, deflated breast, a smelly or coloured discharge from your wounds, a high fever, or lumps or aching. These may require the prescription of antibiotics.

5. Tight-fitting sports bra. Bruising and discomfort can result from excessive movement. Many surgeons recommend that their patients wear sports bras in order to minimize swaying. This is especially important in the early days of your recovery, during which excessive use of your arms and chest area could cause irritation and bleeding.

6. The art of deception. Not everyone needs to know that you’ve had breast augmentation surgery. People will often recognize that your appearance has changed, but you can change your hairstyle or your makeup routine to deceive them. “Oh, you dyed your hair! That’s what’s different about you.”

Keep in mind that not all of these tips may apply to you; for instance, your San Antonio plastic surgeon may recommend against a sports bra, or you may have special dietary needs. When in doubt, always be sure to ask!