What to Expect after Breast Lift Surgery: A Recovery Timeline

For millions of patients through the years, breast lift has proven to be a miracle of sorts, freeing them from excruciating neck, back, and shoulder pain, not to mention unwanted attention from strangers and an inability to find clothes that fit properly. Especially when performed by a plastic surgeon with the skill, experience, and keen aesthetic eye of Dr. Stuart Baker of The Center for Cosmetic Medicine™, breast lift yields results that are equal parts cosmetically pleasing and physically liberating. Perhaps best of all, most women emerge from the procedure feeling more confident and comfortable in their own skin.

Of course, even a safe, time-tested procedure such as breast lift is not entirely free of risks, side effects, and a recovery period that patients must endure. Dr. Baker is careful to discuss all of these, including the breast lift recovery timeline, during consultations at his Decatur practice so that patients know exactly what to expect before, during, and after surgery. He strives to provide his patients with all of the education they need to make confident decisions as to whether breast lift is right for them.

What to Expect during Breast Lift Recovery

Breast lift surgery is performed on an outpatient basis using either local or general anesthesia, depending on the scope of the surgery and the wishes of the patient. Either way, you will have to arrange to have someone drive you to and from your surgical appointment as you will be too groggy and uncomfortable from surgery to drive yourself. You will probably also want to have someone on hand to help you around the house for a day or two after your surgery.

Expect to take at least one week off of work, during which you will need to get plenty of rest and keep your upper body elevated at all times, including while sleeping. You will have to avoid all strenuous activity; however, light walking is encouraged.

For at least the first two weeks after your surgery, you will be required to wear a surgical bra to ensure proper healing and to minimize swelling and bruising. You may experience some discomfort or pain, especially in the first two or three days after your surgery; however, these can generally be controlled with pain relievers prescribed by Dr. Baker.

While complications such as bleeding and infection are possible with any surgery, they are extremely rare with breast lift, especially if you follow all post-surgical instructions to the letter. Common side effects include bruising, swelling, itching, and numbness. These are usually temporary and mild.

During your recovery period, you will be advised not to smoke, if you are a smoker. Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of infection. You will be required to drink lots of water, eat a healthy diet, engage in light walking whenever possible, and attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. Baker.

Learn More about the Breast Lift Recovery Timeline

To learn more about the breast lift recovery timeline, please contact The Center for Cosmetic Medicine™ today.