Breast Augmentation Recovery: Tips and Timeline

Posted on: June 26, 2024

Your breast augmentation is just the beginning of a journey to the shapelier breasts you desire. Knowing what to expect during your recovery period is vital for achieving the best outcomes. In this blog post, we help you plan for your breast augmentation recovery, and offer tips for each part of the healing timeline.

How Long Is Breast Augmentation Recovery?

Full recovery from breast augmentation, meaning you can resume all pre-surgery activities, is usually around 4 to 6 weeks. However, recovery time depends on individual healing rates and the complexity of the procedure. For more detailed information about what to expect through each stage of your recovery, we’ve created the following timeline.

Week 1: Immediate Post-Op Care

The first week after surgery is critical. You’ll likely experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Dr. Hromadka and Dr. Spring will provide pain medication to help you manage any discomfort.

While you won’t be on “bed rest,” you’ll still need to take it easy and avoid anything too strenuous like reaching, lifting more than a few pounds, and anything that elevates your heart rate. Taking short, gentle walks can help with blood circulation and improve recovery outcomes.

You’ll also need to sleep on your back with your head elevated to minimize swelling and avoid putting pressure on your chest. Make sure to take it easy and arrange for help around the house as needed.

Tips for Week 1

• Take all prescribed medications as directed to manage pain and prevent infection.
• Wear your compression garment continuously to reduce swelling and support proper healing.
• Focus on eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated.
• Start walking as soon as you feel able.

Weeks 2 to 3: Gradual Return to Normal Activities

As you move into the second and third weeks of your recovery, you’ll notice a decrease in swelling and discomfort. However, it’s important to continue taking it easy and gradually increase your activities. Patients are typically back to work by this time.

Tips for Weeks 2 to 3

• Continue wearing a surgical compression garment or support bra.
• Avoid straining your upper body; be careful raising your arms, and don’t lift anything heavy.
• Keep an eye on your incision sites; contact our office if you notice any unusual warmth, redness, or discharge.
• Ease into light exercise and housework.

Weeks 4 to 6: Most Restrictions Lift

By the fourth week, many patients feel more comfortable and can start incorporating more exercises and activities into their routine. However, it’s still crucial to avoid any high-impact activities or heavy lifting.

Tips for Weeks 4 to 6

• Gradually and carefully increase your fitness and exertion level.
• Continue wearing a support bra to ensure your breasts are properly supported during physical activities.
• Begin scar care treatments to minimize scarring.

Week 6 and Beyond: Full Recovery

Around the six-week mark, most patients are cleared to resume all normal activities, including more strenuous exercises. The final results of your breast augmentation will become more apparent as swelling continues to subside, muscles and tissues soften, and your implants settle into a more natural shape and position.

Tips for Week 6 and Beyond

• Attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress.
• Continue to eat well, stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to support overall healing.
• Understand that full recovery and your final results can take several months.
• Continue with scar care, which may include silicone-based products or laser treatments.

Start Your Journey

If you’re considering breast augmentation, the board-certified plastic surgeons at Mountain West Plastic Surgery will guide you through every step of your surgical journey. request a consultation online or call us at to get started.