"How long will it take before I’m back to my usual activities?" It’s a very common question that we get in relation to breast augmentation at the Cosmetic Surgery Institute here in Toronto.
Every surgical procedure requires recovery time. Operations such as a breast augmentation - cause trauma to the body in a controlled way. Swelling and bruising is a natural reaction - it's part of the body's healing process.
Generally, in the first week after surgery, patients notice some swelling and tenderness possibly bruising. This will subside over those first seven days, helped along by cold packs and an elastic bandage to maintain gentle pressure. The first week after surgery of any type is always the most difficult. I always advise my patients to take a week off and rest. I find that recovery is easier if physical activity is kept to a minimum.
I see my patients for the first post-op visit one week after surgery. This check up allows me to check to see that that everything is proceeding as expected. It also provides an opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns that may have arisen.
Most patients are able to return to work after a week. Sometimes those with a more physical job will need more time to recover. I stress that every patient should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity during the first three weeks following surgery. (No working out until everything is stable and healed.)
I review my patients again after 4 to 6 weeks. By this time, healing is well advanced and all swelling and bruising is fully resolved. The remodeling of the breast shape is usually complete and patients can assess their final appearance.
If any questions linger regarding the final outcome or whether further changes in shape may be expected, I arrange for further visits to assess and discuss and maybe even modify the way things have healed. My goal is always to see my patients happy with their final result.