Your
scars will be pink for several weeks. After several months they will
begin to fade. It is critical that you review post-procedure care with
your doctor. Following his/her instructions carefully will help ensure
you have a speedy, healthy recovery. Also keep in mind that:
- Rest
is important to the healing process, so do it as much as possible
following your procedure. Drink plenty of fluids, and be sure to
take the doctor's prescribed medications.
- For
at least 3-5 days, you should try to keep arm extension to a
minimal. Elbows should not be raised higher than the armpit. The tissues
will heal more quickly if you avoid stretching and separating
muscle/tissue surrounding the breast implants.
- Most
likely, you will be able to resume calm, quiet work within a few
days of your surgery. You should still avoid physical exertion for
several weeks, depending on the advice of your doctor.
- After
several days, the gauze dressing will be removed. You may be
required to wear a support bra to help your breasts form and maintain a
pleasing, balanced shape. You may or may not be able to shower,
depending on where your stitches are.
- The
stitches will come out within a week to ten days, but swelling may
continue, gradually subsiding over several weeks. With the swelling,
your breasts may seem hard and unnatural, but eventually they should
soften to a more natural feel.
You
will probably be able to resume exercise and normal physical activities
within a month or two, when the soreness has subsided. Recovery varies
from patient to patient and depends upon the technique, type of implant,
and site of placement that the doctor uses, as well as the level of
activities in your daily routine. Ask your doctor for more specific
information.
