Recovering from cosmetic breast surgery

Cosmetic breast surgery may last for a couple of hours. However, it is important to take good post operative care. Dr Charu Sharma, consultant plastic surgeon, Fortis Hospital tells us how we can smoothen the recovery process

By Zoha Tapia

Post the surgery what is the recovery process like?
Surgeons usually advise their patients about the recovery period depending on the age, body shape and the placement of implant (below or above the muscle). Generally the first few days are the most uncomfortable with women experiencing swelling and soreness, during this period compressive bandages may be required and in some cases use of a surgical bra or ace wraps may also be suggested. The patient is advised to refrain from heavy lifting or strenuous exercise in the early days after surgery.

The average time to return to full activities is 4-6 weeks, but women can usually return to work after a few days. In order to recover fully without any complications patients are advised to follow the doctor’s instructions, eat well and avoid soaking the incision till it is fully healed. 

Could the patient incur any complications post surgery?
The nature and incidence of post-surgical complications greatly varies from person to person. Since it is an invasive surgery, there is a risk of infection similar to other surgeries and therefore proper care must be taken during and after the surgery to ensure that the incision site remains clean and free from pathogens. The best way to minimise post-surgical complications is to be careful in the choice of implants, surgeon and the healthcare facility where the procedure will be carried out. According to the US FDA, approved implants when used as labelled are safe and do not cause any life threatening complication.

Are the breast implants permanent or do they require a follow up?
After breast augmentation surgery women should visit their surgeon for post-operative care and to ensure a smooth recovery, mammograms are also advised once in the first three years. Breast implants being medical devices are not permanent lifetime devices, however if US FDA approved quality implants are used and post-surgical advice is followed, they may last for up to 30 years if not longer.

Post breast implants can one do heavy cardiovascular exercises or strenuous physical activities?
The doctor will be the best guide to advise the patient on when regular activities can be resumed. Most women return to work within a few days but they are advised to refrain from strenuous exercise for 4-6 weeks, walking however is generally recommended during this period to encourage circulation. It is also important to not let sweat into the incision till it heals and good support bras should be worn while running to minimise pull on the skin and drooping of the breast.

Picture credit: Image Source/India Pictures