Guiding You through a Safe Breast Augmentation Recovery

Like any surgery, the healing process following breast augmentation is an important stage of treatment. Dr. Gregory Mesna and his team at Mesna Plastic Surgery value patient education, and work hard to keep their patients informed about every aspect of their procedure, including recovery and aftercare. To learn more about what you can expect during breast augmentation recovery, please reach out to our Minneapolis, MN-area practice today and schedule your consultation.

The First 48 Hours of Recovery

To ensure the most comfortable and safe recovery, it is important to follow Dr. Mesna’s post-operative instructions to the letter. Patients are advised to rest for the first 48 hours after surgery. At this time, the body is beginning to heal and the chest muscles will feel sore and tight. General discomfort, nipple sensitivity, swelling, and bruising should be expected, although the severity will vary from patient to patient. To help keep swelling down, patients can apply an ice pack to the treatment area for 15 minutes at a time. To control discomfort, Dr. Mesna may prescribe painkillers, or an over-the-counter medication may be sufficient. Additionally, you will also need to wear a compression garment for a prescribed duration to minimize side effects and enhance contouring. Patients should arrange to have plenty of assistance from a family member or friend for the first couple of days after surgery. Even small tasks can be uncomfortable and compromise preliminary healing.

Week One

After the first 48 hours, side effects will gradually begin to dissipate. By the end of the first week, most bruising and pain will have substantially reduced, and swelling will have gone down. Many patients are able to return to work and non-strenuous daily activities.

Week Two

In the second to third weeks, side effects should be reduced to minor soreness and swelling. Patients can expect improved energy levels, and may resume more activities around this time. Light walks are a great way to promote circulation, but strenuous tasks should continue to be avoided. Any movement that significantly raises the heart rate, or puts stress on the pectoral muscles, should be avoided.

Weeks Three through Six

In weeks three through six, swelling should be mostly resolved, and patients will start to get an accurate idea of their final appearance. Although the breasts still need time to adjust to the implants, a substantial portion of tissue should have healed by about a month and a half after the surgery. 

The Months Following Your Procedure

Within the first few months of recovery, healing will continue and any residual tightness or swelling will have completely subsided. Subtle changes to the shape and positioning of the breasts during this period will reveal the final results of your procedure. Surgical scarring should also begin to fade, becoming less noticeable with time.

Learn More During a Consultation

To learn more about the breast augmentation recovery period and how Dr. Mesna's experience can help ensure a safe and speedy recovery, please contact our office to set up an appointment.