Breast Augmentation - Care After Surgery
- It is okay to wear a sports bra other than the garment provided at the time of surgery. Because of the pressure from the wire, avoid underwire bras for one month.
- Avoid vigorous exercise for at least two weeks after surgery. During the first two weeks the implant is settling into location and should not be subjected to movement. Vigorous activity also increases swelling, and should be avoided.
- Avoid heavy lifting (more than 20 pounds) during the first two weeks. Women with small children need to avoid lifting during this period and will therefore need assistance for three or four days. Do not perform heavy housework, mow the lawn, or lift heavy bags of groceries.
- You may resume exercise gradually, performing light cardiovascular exercises two weeks after surgery, such as walking on a treadmill. Full aerobic exercising may be resumed one month after surgery without restriction. Keep in mind that everyone heals at a different pace. Your body will tell you (pain, increased swelling) when you're overdoing it. If you workout and feel fine the evening and night afterward, you can gradually increase your workout the next day. Avoid jumping back into your usual routine even if you feel okay while you are doing it. You'll hurt and swell more later.
- A low-grade fever (under 101) is normal during the first 48 hours. Report any persistent fever, increasing rather than decreasing pain or swelling, or any drainage from the incision that persists longer than two days.
- Most patients are able to return to work approximately one week after surgery. If you have a more physical job (server, nurse, factory worker), a period of at least two weeks will be necessary. Remember that you will still be sore for about one month.
- Wait until the bruising is gone before using a tanning bed. Protect the incisions under the breasts with Band-Aids®. The incisions will heal with a less conspicuous scar if they are protected from UV exposure for at least one month.
