Breast Implant Recovery
Preparing for Breast Implant Recovery
Before jumping into such a commitment as a breast augmentation, it is important that one learns what to expect during breast implant recovery. Although breast augmentation has quickly become a common surgery, there are still risks involved that should be taken seriously. We are going to discuss the typical symptoms and time frame that can be expected during breast implant recovery.
Recovery begins as soon as the patient wakes up. The patient is usually kept in a recovery suite for at least two hours, during which they will be monitored to ensure that all of their systems are stable. Some people experience confusion upon waking, which is due to the anesthesia wearing off. Once the patient has come to they may experience quite an onslaught of pain in which case pain medication should be requested. Nausea may also occur as a side effect of a general anesthetic.
The surgeon may decide to place drainage tubes into the incisions. The tubes are connected to plastic pouches that will contain the excess fluid that drains from the surgical site. This tubing is generally left for a few days or up to a week and is removed during a follow-up appointment with the surgeon. Removal is usually very easy—a matter of simply sliding the tube out of the incision area—and does not cause any pain.
The most discomfort and pain is usually over after the first 48 hours have passed. Swelling is almost always present, however ice packs can be gently applied to the area to reduce swelling. Swelling usually peaks around the fourth day after surgery and may be accompanied by bruising. Not all women bruise, however it is not uncommon for bruising to occur. This, too, usually subsides after a week.
It’s very important that the incision lines are kept dry during breast implant recovery. One should never apply lotions, gels, or oils to the area, as these can lead to inflammation and/or infection. If one develops a fever shortly after the surgery, it could be due to infection. One should monitor their temperature and contact their doctor if a fever above 101 degrees F occurs. Most patients are prescribed a course of antibiotics to be taken during recovery. Following the doctor’s orders and taking the dosages on time will help to prevent infection.
Bathing is very difficult during the first week and may require one to abstain from bathing altogether for the first five days after surgery. Washing one’s hair may not even be possible due to the arm movement required. The incision area should not be allowed to get wet until the incisions have closed up. This definitely puts showers out of the question, but one may be able to bathe the lower portion of their body in a shallow bath.
Most surgeons instruct patients to be prepared to take at least one week off of work. If their job requires heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, the amount of time booked off of work will likely increase to two or three weeks. Patients are advised to get plenty of bed rest and to forego exercise or demanding activity.
Scarring is likely to result, however the appearance of scars should lessen over the months. Usually after twelve months the scarring will have reached its permanent appearance. If the incision area is treated properly the scarring will likely be faint. It is important to remember that the full results of a breast augmentation will not be visible until several months after the surgery. The shape, firmness, and position of the breasts will likely appear unnatural for the first few months, however this generally eases into a more natural appearance around four months after surgery. Nipple sensitivity usually only lasts for a few weeks, but in some cases one may lose sensitivity altogether. Sensation usually returns after about a month, however it is possible for one to lose sensation permanently. If the incision begins to bleed or if a fever over 101 degrees F occurs, one should contact their doctor straight away for an evaluation and treatment.
As you cans see, breast implant recovery isn’t a simple one-week-total-recovery case. There are long-term items to consider, especially in the first year following surgery, as this is usually the time that the final and permanent results are visible. If you believe you are ready to handle the symptoms and responsibilities of augmentation recovery, consult a local surgeon about receiving a consultation to learn more about the procedure.