Are you wondering what you will be faced with if you decide to undergo breast augmentation surgery? If you have decided to undergo the procedure, whether it is as a reconstructive procedure or to alter your natural breasts, make sure you know what will happen afterward. The recovery is one of the most important aspects of the surgery, and preparing for it is imperative.
Right after your surgery, you'll be taken to a recovery room. You'll be gently maneuvered into a semi-upright reclining position while you are there. This position helps to keep the swelling down. Your breasts will be wrapped in sterile gauze dressings, and the nurses will likely give you some type of pain medication to help manage your pain levels.
Dr. Ortegon will provide you with a list of home recovery instructions before you leave. He may have also asked you to bring in a supportive bra to wear home. The nurses will show you how to change your bandages once you are home and may change them once before you do leave. You will need to have a friend or family member take you home, as the anesthesia and pain medications will make it impossible for you to drive. Your loved one should also listen to any aftercare instructions, as the medications may make it difficult for you to remember certain instructions. You'll need to know how long you will have to wear the gauze dressing if you need to remove them or cover them for a shower, and when they need to be changed. Dr. Ortegon will also talk about the activities you need to avoid during your recovery period.
Once you are at home, you will want to avoid any strenuous activities that could lead to injury. You do not want to participate in activities that require the use of your upper chest muscles, such as swimming, tennis, running, or jumping. You should avoid any type of submersion in water for the first three weeks following your breast augmentation surgery. Avoid picking up anything heavy for about a week after surgery. Your doctor will give you a weight limit that you need to adhere to. If you have young children at home, make sure that you have help while you are healing. Do not pick them up on your own.
You will need a good, supportive sports bra to aid in the healing process. Always opt for a sports bra that is not made with underwire, as that can irritate the incision site. You may want to head to a lingerie shop or department store that can personally fit you for a sports bra to wear during your recovery period. Dr. Ortegon will give you a prescription for pain medication before you leave the facility. There will usually be enough for the first few days or weeks. Dr. Ortegon may also recommend some over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen. He will recommend that you avoid aspirin for at least a couple of weeks after the surgery, as aspirin is a blood thinner and can cause excess bleeding around the incision area.
Make sure to get plenty of rest after your surgery. Take it easy and enjoy getting used to the new you! Always keep your follow-up appointments. If you feel like there is a problem before your next scheduled appointment, do not hesitate to call the office. For after-hour-emergencies, call 9-1-1.
If you are ready to undergo breast augmentation surgery, call our professionals at San Antonio Cosmetic Surgery at 210-951-2483 or fill out our online form. Choose one of the most highly-recommended facilities in your area, and let them give you the body you have been dreaming of!
Contact us today to schedule your consultation with the renowned San Antonio plastic surgeon and breast & body specialist Dr. Delio Ortegon. Take your first steps to a more beautiful you.
4910 Golden Quail Suite 140, San Antonio, TX 78240
