Breast augmentation surgery, the most requested cosmetic procedure for women worldwide, has evolved so significantly over the years that most patients experience an incredibly quick recovery with very little pain.
A simple breast augmentation procedure today remarkably take around an hour, and is performed in an outpatient setting using IV sedation alongside local anesthesia, and the small incisions (only 1 inch long) heal easier than ever before. In fact, many patients find they can return to work within a few days because the surgical recovery is so quick that the pain more-or-less dissipates within 24-48 hours.
It’s important to note that while you can typically return to daily activities within 48 hours, your body is still healing. Your breasts will be wrapped in gauze and elastic bandages or a special bra to minimize swelling and provide constant support. As the immediate surgical pain subsides, you may still feel some soreness and have swelling for the next few weeks. One hard and fast rule is to avoid picking up anything more than five pounds for the first two weeks of recovery, and while you can shower, you should avoid soaking in a tub or swimming. Most likely your doctor will advise you to steer clear of exercise for about 30 days, as well. In general, it will take about a month to completely recover.