In a major cosmetic surgery procedure such as breast lift, recovery is a crucial factor which will also impact the outcomes of the procedure.
At the time of pre-op consultation, the surgeon will discuss various facets of breast lift, including its recovery duration and offer comprehensive guidelines for a predictable and safe recovery.
Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides breast lift to patients in Houston, Texas and surrounding communities.
Initial Two Weeks
The patient will experience a certain degree of bruising and inflammation in the initial week following breast lift plastic surgery. The surgeon will prescribe pain meds to ensure that the patient remains comfortable during this time. From the second week onwards, the bruising will dissipate rapidly. However, the inflammation will take more time to subside.
The patient should not sleep on her stomach to avoid putting pressure on the incisions for the initial two weeks. In the initial days post-surgery, she should only take a sponge bath.
The surgeon will provide a special surgical bra that should be worn all the time for a few weeks (except when taking a bath). The surgeon will remove the sutures and drain tubes typically at the end of the initial week following the surgery.
After the first week post-surgery, a majority of patients can resume their routine or return to work. But the patient should avoid aggressive exercise, bending over, and lifting of heavy objects for nearly 3 weeks. She should also not smoke during the recovery phase as advised by the surgeon.
The patient should undertake follow-up appointments at the surgeon’s practice as per schedule. In case she experiences acute pain, abnormal inflammation, fever, or other such symptoms, she should contact the surgeon.
Initial Months Following the Surgery
The inflammation will resolve entirely in around 3 to 6 months. At this point, the complete outcomes of the surgery will be apparent. The patient should not wear an underwire bra for the initial 2 to 3 months. She may feel numbness or a change in sensation around the nipple region. This will gradually improve by itself.
During the recovery period, certain patients may feel a tingling or stinging sensation in the incision sites. This may occur when the nerves are undergoing the process of restoration to be able to perform their normal function. In the initial month following the surgery, the patient should refrain from elevating her hands above the head or doing aggressive exercises.
Scarring after the breast lift surgery will be more visible in the initial months. The scars will appear reddish and lumpy. But over time, they will fade away into narrow, white lines. Some surgeons may advise the patient to undergo cortisone cream or silicone sheeting treatments to reduce the scarring.
Patients who diligently follow the post-op care instructions of the surgeon will often achieve a faster and easier recovery. If at any point during the recovery, they notice abnormal symptoms such as fever, excessive pain or pus in the incisions, they should contact the surgeon for advice.
Experienced female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas and nearby areas for breast lift.
For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.
