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Breast augmentation is one of the most-performed plastic surgery procedures today. While most women go into the surgery with thoughts of their fuller, perkier breasts, recovery is a necessary predecessor to enjoying those positive results. To make your recovery go as smoothly and comfortably as possible, the staff at New York Group for Plastic Surgery has a few tips to keep in mind.

Plan Ahead

The best time to ensure a healthy recovery process is before you even undergo your surgery. Plan ahead by stocking up on supplies like soft foods and quiet activities. Fill prescriptions prior to your procedure as well, so they are ready for you when you get home. Stop all medications as recommended by your surgeon prior to your procedure to prevent any potential complications and kick the smoking habit a few weeks before surgery for the same reason.

Enlist Support

Most surgeons will require you to have someone with you for the first 24 hours after breast augmentation surgery. You will likely need that person to help you get to and from the bathroom and to bring you food and other necessities during that first day so you can rest and heal. If you have small children, it is a good idea to line up someone to care for them for the first few days after surgery, since you will not likely feel up to fulfilling your “mommy” duties during that time.

Follow Instructions

In addition to pre-operative instructions, you will also receive post-operative instructions that will likely involve three basic steps:

Medication – Most women do take some prescription medication in the early days following breast augmentation. Your pain level will depend on many different factors, including the location of your incisions and the placement of your implants. Your surgeon will provide you with the resources necessary to minimize discomfort during those early days.

Compression – Compression garments are generally worn in the days after breast augmentation to encourage healing of the breasts and ensure good positioning while they heal. The gauze dressing is likely the first type of compression you will have, followed by a sport or surgical bra that will be worn 24 hours at first.

Massage – Massaging the breasts after surgery will help to settle the implants into proper position and soften the surgical area. A member of our team will instruct you on proper massage techniques, which you will be expected to perform at home. The exception is women that have had augmentation and lift surgery at the same time – massage is not recommended for these patients.

Take Ample Time

There are no shortcuts to recovering after breast augmentation surgery. Patients that give themselves ample time to heal tend to fare much better than those that try to rush back to activities too soon. Most patients are back to regular activities within 1-2 weeks. However, if you have a job that involves heavy lifting or strenuous activity, you may need to take even more time off to ensure your body heals fully.

Develop Healthy Habits

Ideally, the best time to develop healthy habits is before your surgery. However, it’s never too late to switch up your diet and adopt a regular exercise program to keep your body in top condition. If you stopped smoking before your breast surgery, stick with that plan for a healthier body for life.

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that offers significant benefits to women today. By following these tips, you can rest assured your recovery from breast surgery will be as comfortable and successful as possible. To learn more, contact New York Plastic Surgery Group at one of our four offices: New York City, 888-834-2075; Tarrytown, 914-366-6139.

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