How Long Does It Take to Recover From Breast Lift Surgery?
Recovery can be a nerve-wracking part of breast lift surgery. Many women want to know how much downtime is needed after surgery so they can prepare ahead of time. This blog discusses the breast lift recovery timeline to give patients an idea of what to expect.
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Breast Lift Recovery
Women who get a breast lift can look forward to elevated, perky, and youthful-looking breasts on the horizon. But before you can enjoy your breast lift results, every breast lift patient must first go through the recovery process. Recovery can be a daunting aspect of breast lift surgery for many women, especially when thinking about pain levels and how much downtime is needed. However, recovery is a necessary part of the breast lift process, and it’s an essential aspect of getting you to enjoy your newly lifted breasts.
One of the best ways to ease nerves about breast lift recovery is to prepare yourself ahead of time. Researching the recovery process can help you familiarize yourself with the average timeline for when you can start incorporating more physical activities into your routine. It will also give you an idea of when you’ll be fully recovered from surgery so you can plan the weeks after your procedure accordingly.
Immediately After Surgery
A breast lift surgery usually takes two to three hours to complete. You’ll be under anesthesia throughout the procedure. Once your breast lift surgery has been completed, you’ll be woken up, and the anesthesia will start to wear off. You can expect to feel some discomfort and pain as the anesthesia wears off.
You can expect to have bandages on your breasts, and you’ll need to wear a non-underwire bra throughout your recovery period. The non-underwire bra will help your breasts adjust to their new position and minimize swelling.
Most patients can return home the same day as their breast lift procedure. You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home, as you will still be under the effects of anesthesia. You will also need someone to stay with you for at least the first 24 hours after your procedure to ensure that you’re doing alright and to help assist you while you have a limited range of motion.
Breast Lift Recovery Timeline
When preparing for breast lift recovery, it’s essential to understand that every woman’s body will heal at its own rate. Below, we’ve laid out a loose timeline that details what many breast lift patients have experienced throughout their recovery. That being said, listening to your body throughout the recovery process is important so you don’t push yourself too fast too soon. Most patients want to recover from surgery as quickly as possible to enjoy their full results and return to their daily routines. Yet, to do all that, you must first ensure that your body has everything it needs to heal safely and smoothly.
One Week After Surgery
The beginning portion of breast lift recovery is when you will typically feel the most pain and discomfort. This is because your body will need to adjust to the surgical changes, and your incision sites will be fresh. You can expect some redness, swelling, stiffness, and soreness, especially during the first few days after surgery. Some patients experience sensitivity and numbness around the nipples. You may also experience some irritation and itchiness at your incision sites as they begin to heal.
It’s important to focus on resting during the first week of recovery. Refrain from all strenuous physical activities, lifting objects, and driving. You may take short, light walks during this first week, as this will help your blood circulate and prevent blood clots from forming.
One week after surgery, people with office jobs or other occupations with minimal physical activity needed are often able to return to work.
Two Weeks After Surgery
You will likely still feel some pain and discomfort during your second week of recovery and will have to continue limiting your physical activities to ensure a safe and comfortable healing process. At this point, you should still be avoiding strenuous activities, hot showers or baths, and having sex.
After the second week of recovery, many patients are able to slowly start doing light activities. Many patients can start driving, lifting light objects, and cleaning the house at this time. Patients who have not already gone back to work may return after two weeks of recovery.
Three to Five Weeks After Surgery
Around three to five weeks after your breast lift surgery, the majority of the pain and discomfort will start to fade away. Your body will continue adjusting to the changes made during your breast lift, making you feel more comfortable. As you begin to engage in more physical activities, always ask your surgeon first if it is safe to do so.
Six Weeks After Surgery
For many women, the sixth-week post-surgery is seen as the end of the breast lift recovery period. Around six weeks after breast lift surgery, many women are able to resume all physical activities and their regular daily routines. Your breast lift results may continue to develop over the next few months, and you may still experience some swelling and numbness.
How Long Does It Take to Fully Recover From a Breast Lift?
Every patient’s recovery period varies, but generally speaking, most women are considered to be fully recovered 6 to 12 weeks after breast lift surgery. Your surgeon can provide a more specific timeline based on your customized treatment plan.
Want to Know More About Breast Lift Surgery in Ladera Ranch, CA?
If you have sagging breasts and are looking for a procedure that will rejuvenate their appearance, you may want to consider breast lift surgery. To learn more about how breast lifts are performed in Ladera Ranch, CA, and what the recovery process entails, you can call Dr. Doezie’s office at (949) 481-9850 or fill out our online contact form.
You can also schedule a consultation with Dr. Doezie to learn if you’re a good candidate for breast lift surgery. At Mission Plastic Surgery, giving patients the best possible experience is a top priority. You can count on Dr. Doezie and the staff at Mission Plastic Surgery to provide a comfortable environment and always be ready to answer any questions you may have.