Breast lifts have exploded in popularity, with over 153,600 procedures performed in the U.S., according to the latest American Society of Plastic Surgeons statistics. For those thinking about getting a breast lift, recovery is also an important part of your journey. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the recovery process.
4 Min Read:
Why Should I Get a Breast Lift?
Breast lift surgery has changed the lives of many women. While every surgery comes with its own set of considerations, many breast lift patients have found the benefits far outweigh their initial concerns.
Here’s why you might want to consider taking this step:
- Your breasts will sit higher on your chest, giving you a youthful silhouette.
- You’ll finally be able to wear cute bras and tops without constantly adjusting or feeling self-conscious.
- Exercise and physical activities become more comfortable without excess skin sagging and chafing getting in the way.
- Your nipples will face forward instead of downward, creating a more natural appearance.
- Best of all, you’ll feel more confident in your own skin, whether you’re in a bikini or your favorite dress.
Recovery Timeline
Every woman’s recovery from breast lift surgery is unique, but understanding typical healing milestones can help you set realistic expectations and plan accordingly. Here’s a general timeline of what to expect after your procedure:
Immediately After Surgery
You’ll wake up wearing a surgical bra, feeling groggy from anesthesia. Don’t worry—this is normal. Your breasts will be swollen and tender, and you’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you that first night.
Week One
The first few days are the most challenging. You’ll need plenty of rest, and sleeping on your back is a must. Some discomfort and swelling are to be expected, but your plastic surgeon can prescribe pain medication to help manage this. Most women can return to light desk work after five to seven days.
Weeks Two and Three
You’ll start feeling more like yourself. The initial swelling begins to subside, though your breasts might still feel tender. Light activities are okay, but no heavy lifting or strenuous exercise yet. You’ll switch from the surgical bra to a soft sports bra.
Weeks Four through Six
Most of the swelling is gone, and you can gradually return to normal activities. Your surgeon might clear you for exercise, starting with light cardio. Your incisions will heal, though they will still be visible. Many women return to their normal social activities during this time.
Three to Six Months
The breast tissue fully settles into its new position, and regular sensation typically returns. Your scars will continue to fade from red to pink to light pink. You can now wear regular bras and enjoy activities like swimming. By month six, you’ll be fully healed, though scars will continue to improve for a year or more.
Recovery Tips
The success of your breast lift largely depends on how well you take care of yourself during recovery. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions, but here are some tried-and-true tips to heal smoothly:
- Sleep on your back with your upper body elevated. This helps keep swelling down.
- Keep wearing your surgical bra as directed. It’s not just about comfort; it helps shape your results.
- Take all your meds on schedule.
- Keep your incisions clean and dry.
- Have someone around to help during that first week. Remember, no heavy lifting until your surgeon says it’s okay.
- Drink plenty of water and eat well. Your body needs fuel to heal.
- Don’t rush back to your workout routine. Give yourself time to heal properly.
Breast Lift Recovery Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
- Keep all your follow-up appointments. Your surgeon needs to check how you’re healing.
- Take short walks around your house to keep blood flowing and prevent clots.
- Wear loose, button-up shirts that don’t need to be pulled over your head.
Don’ts
- Don’t smoke. It slows healing and can seriously compromise your results.
- Don’t lift anything heavy. Your chest muscles need time to recover.
- Don’t Google random recovery advice. Instead, stick to your surgeon’s aftercare instructions as closely as possible.
Looking for a Skilled Breast Lift Surgeon in Beverly Hills, CA?
If you’re ready to take the next step and start your breast lift process, contact Kadz Plastic Surgery to begin your transformative experience. Call us at (980) 372-5239 or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation.