When it comes to breast surgery, your recovery period is almost as important as the surgery itself when it comes to healing and achieving optimal results. In fact, navigating your recovery period properly can actually help you see results faster! So if you’re planning a breast lift procedure, be sure to follow this guide for some great breast lift recovery tips.
Wear a Compression Garment, Surgical Bra or Sports Bra
Patients are typically provided with a surgical bra following their procedure, which applies pressure throughout the breasts in order to minimize swelling and facilitate a smooth recovery. They also enhance blood flow and provide support to the treatment area, both of which accelerate the recovery process. While you can remove this a few days after surgery, we recommend that patients continue to wear sports bras or similar items in order to optimize their healing for the weeks immediately following surgery.
Relax
Resting is absolutely essential to the healing process. In the first few days after your procedure, you will be experiencing the most significant discomfort and side effects of your entire recovery. Do not try to push through these symptoms to complete chores or go to work. Focus all of your efforts on relaxing and healing, and spend as much time in bed as possible. We often recommend that patients have someone help them around the house for a few days in order to make this process as easy as possible.
Take a Walk
You definitely need to avoid strenuous activities and exercise during your first few weeks of recovery, as they can stress the body and interfere with its healing process. However, light exercise in the form of walking can be incredibly beneficial. Walking helps to reduce the risk of blood clots, stimulate blood flow and keep the body healthy. Taking a few walks around your home or neighborhood can be an easy way to get the blood flowing without placing too much stress on the body.
Sleep On Your Back
It is hugely important that you sleep on your back following surgery, so as not to place stress on the incisions or the breasts. If this is difficult, we suggest propping yourself up with a few extra pillows, as this position will also aid with blood flow without stressing the body.
Avoid Extreme Heat & Coldness
Hot environments like showers and bathtubs can actually increase swelling, and your chest will be highly sensitive in the weeks immediately following your treatment. Similarly, you should avoid the use of ice packs, as they can actually restrict blood flow and hinder the healing process. Furthermore, your breasts might already be somewhat numb due to surgery, which means you’ll be unable to tell when an ice pack is starting to damage the body from extended use.
Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions
In addition to these tips, follow the instructions provided by your surgeon regarding your recovery period. They know what’s best for you, and they are offering you instructions to ensure your results are the best they can be. If you have any other questions regarding the breast lift procedure, or if you’d like to schedule a consultation to discuss this treatment, contact us today. The Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Center of Texas offers this and other cosmetic surgery services to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals.
