Breast Augmentation Post-Op FAQ
Q: How long do I need to be off of work? A: It is recommended that you take one week off of work after breast augmentation surgery and continue to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for 4 weeks after the surgery. I also ask patients not to drive for 7-10 days after surgery, or until off all medications and can react to an emergency when driving. Q: How long will I have to wear this special bra? A: Normally, the bra will need to be worn for 4 weeks. There are reasons why the bra is important and following San Diego Cosmetic Surgeon’s, Dr. Pousti, directions will give you the best possible results. Each patient is different and so the recovery will also be different. After 4 weeks, a comfortable non-underwire bra with support is OK. Q: When can I start to exercise? A: Dr. Pousti does not recommend heavy weight lifting or strenuous exercise until 6 weeks after the procedure. Patients may resume lower body exercise 10 days post-surgery. Q: When can I shower after this procedure? A: It is recommended not to fully shower until the tapes are removed approximately 4-6 weeks post-op. Q: When do these tapes come off? A: Steri-strips come off 4-6 weeks after surgery, as long as they stay clean and dry during that time. Q: How do I keep the steri-strips dry?A: Please place a layer of gauze over the steri-strips. Q: Do I have stitches that have to be removed? A: No sutures need to be removed for this surgery- they dissolve. Q: Do I have to do any special exercises to massage the implants? A: There will be exercises that Dr. Pousti and his office staff will review with you. Generally, we perform downward massage for first time breast augmentation patients to help with the settling of the breast implants into the pocket that was created. Follow your surgeon’s advice as to how long and how forcefully to perform the breast massage.
Breast Augmentation Downward exercise
How to Remove Steri Strips
Removal of Steri Strips after Breast Augmentation Surgery
Use of Silicone Sheeting
Use of Silicone Sheeting to Improve Scarring from Breast Augmentation Surgery
Q: What is drop and fluff? A: The phenomenon of “dropping and fluffing” occurs several weeks to several months after breast augmentation surgery. The breasts appear larger as the implants “settle” lower on the chest wall. The nipple/areola complexes appear higher on the breast mounds as this occurs. Q: Will I be able to sleep on my stomach? On my side? A: In general, approximately 2-3 months after surgery, one is able to sleep on their stomach. You can sleep on your side within a week or two of surgery (with pillows for support). Q: I feel like I am “too large” or “too small”! A: We suggest that you allow for at least 3-6 months before you evaluate the end result of surgery. It can take up to 12 months to see the final results. Q: When can I remove the Surgical Stockings? A: Remove 1-2 days post op surgery as long as you are getting up and walking around. Q: When should I stop taking Herbal Supplements/Dietary Supplements? A: We ask that you stop 2 weeks prior to surgery and resume 2 weeks after surgery Q: When can I go into Ocean water/Pool/Hot tub A: In general, 2-3 months post op. We need the incisions to be healed 100%. Q: Is Constipation normal? A: Yes, constipation after surgery is quite common. The way to reduce constipation is to ween off of pain medication as soon as possible, use stool softener, eat high fiber foods, prune juice is helpful and staying hydrated is very important.
First Post-Op Appointment – Breast Augmentation Surgery Breast Augmentation First Post-Op Office Visit - Prime Plastic Surgery Patient
Life is an emotional rollercoaster; sometimes you feel up, and sometimes you feel down. This is exaggerated after any surgical procedure. We should keep the perspective that this is normal during the recovery process and that it will pass. Our office staff are here to help you get through the recovery process.
