After the procedure, you should expect some swelling — most of which will subside within the first 4 weeks. Your natural breast tissue will also need some time to adjust to the new breast implants. This process can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months depending on the size of the implants. So yes, your new breasts will take a while to “settle” between the swelling and the implants but most patients find the wait worthwhile.
2. Is Recovery Painful?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure, so there will be some pain involved with recovery. You may experience this as shooting pain, throbbing pain, or even just some tingling and numbness following the procedure. Every patient responds differently but for the most part post-procedure pain should fade within a few weeks.
3. Will I Need To Sleep On My Back?
Yes, you will — for a couple of months at least. Sleeping on your stomach or side causes unnecessary strain on your incisions and can interfere with the healing process. If you are used to sleeping on your side or on your stomach, you should get used to this new way of sleeping well before the procedure. The sooner the better too, because if your body is habituated to sleeping a certain position it can take time to unlearn that. If you find yourself having trouble sleeping on your back, try using some extra pillows for support.
4. When Can I Start Exercising Again?
You’ll definitely need to give your body some time to heal after the procedure. That means no intense physical activity — including most forms of exercise. As a general guideline, you shouldn’t be lifting anything over 10 lbs for at least a few weeks after surgery. At that point you should be safe to resume light physical activity, but still no heavy lifting.
It’s hard to give an exact answer here as everyone heals at a different rate. The best thing you can do is consult with your plastic surgeon. They’ll be able to give you a better idea of when you can resume your exercise routine in full. You should also talk to them if you notice any pain or swelling in your chest that wasn’t there before as you’re exercising.
5. Will I Still Have Nipple Sensation?
Yes, you should. Most patients experience some loss of sensation as a result of breast augmentation but rarely is there full loss. What’s more is that this partial loss of feeling is usually temporary. Within a few months most patients are back to having full feeling in their breasts and nipples. Up to 15% of women may experience permanent changes, but these are usually minor.
Hopefully this has given you a better idea of what to expect from your breast augmentation. Should you have any more questions about the procedure or the recovery process, please, don’t hesitate to contact us today at the Florida Center for Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery.
