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Recovering from Breast Augmentation – Week-by-Week Timeline

Gordon Andan, MD

A breast augmentation is a procedure that can elevate the aesthetic appearance of the breasts using implants or your body’s own fat.

Breast augmentations are one of the most popular procedures in the country. (1) This blog will serve as a guide for each week of your recovery, so that you can get an idea of what to expect if you are planning for your procedure.

At New York Surgical Arts, board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Gordan Andan performs breast augmentation with great care and precision, tailoring support for each patient’s unique recovery process.

To start working with Dr. Andan, please schedule a consultation online. You may also reach both our New York City and Garden City offices by calling (516) 746-0155.

About Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation enhances the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. Many patients choose to undergo this procedure to address volume loss—especially after pregnancy or significant weight loss—or to align their look with their aesthetic preferences.

Dr. Andan will help you determine the best type of implant for your goals. Types include:

  • Saline Implants: Saline breast implants have a silicone shell with a sterile saline filling. (1)
  • Silicone Implants: Silicone implants have a silicone shell and are filled with a cohesive silicone gel.
  • Gummy Bear Implants: Gummy bear implants are another type of silicone implant. Gummy bear implants include a viscoelastic silicone gel that improves projection.

About Fat Transfers

Fat transfer breast augmentation uses your own fat to enhance your chest. Dr. Andan performs this procedure by using liposuction to remove fat from areas such as the thighs, flanks, and abdomen. (2) He then purifies and reinjects the fat into the breasts.

Week One

After undergoing your breast augmentation, you will need to take time away from work and other responsibilities to focus on resting.

During this time, it is common to experience swelling and tenderness around your chest. These effects are temporary and will dissipate on their own, but you may also manage these effects by following Dr. Andan’s instructions. You will need to limit certain movements, specifically those that engage your chest muscles. These include lifting, reaching overhead, or pushing.

Dr. Andan will also provide you with a surgical bra you will need to wear throughout your recovery. This garment will help minimize swelling and support your breasts.

While you sleep or recline, you should make sure that your chest is elevated.

Weeks Two and Three

During the second and third weeks of your recovery, many of the side effects will begin to subside. Swelling will begin to decrease, and your breasts will begin to feel less firm. You may return to light activities and desk work after this time, although you should continue to avoid any strenuous or physically demanding activities.

If you undergo a fat transfer, your body will reabsorb some of the fat; this is something that Dr. Andan takes into account during the augmentation procedure. The breasts may remain swollen during this period, but your initial results will become more apparent as this occurs. You will also need to continue wearing your surgical bra unless Dr. Andan has told you otherwise.

Weeks Four Through Six

Throughout weeks four through six, you will be able to start returning to more of your daily activities. Dr. Andan may recommend taking it easier when you first return.

You should still follow any instructions Dr. Andan has provided to you until you are completely done healing, including the use of your support bra.

Results

You will be able to enjoy the full, refined results of your breast augmentation once any residual swelling has subsided. You can expect to experience improvements in the symmetry, shape, size, and volume of your breasts.

The results of both a fat transfer breast augmentation and a breast implant augmentation are long-lasting. The fat that has established a blood supply will remain in place, offering permanent results.

Breast implants typically need to be replaced after about 10-15 years, although some patients can have them for longer.

Personal Consultation

Interested in learning more about breast augmentation recovery? Schedule your consultation with Dr. Andan today! You can submit our online contact form or call (516) 746-0155 to reach our New York offices directly.

During your personal consultation, Dr. Andan will walk you through all of the recovery information that you will need to plan for your procedure. We understand that this can be a lot of information to take in, especially if you’re not sure what type of breast augmentation would be best for you. Dr. Andan will review this and more so that you feel comfortable and confident moving forward.

Cost of Breast Augmentations in New York City and Garden City

The cost of your breast augmentation depends on your unique procedure. Factors that can affect cost include the surgical techniques Dr. Andan is performing, anesthesia fees, surgical fees, implant type, and more. Once he has met with you individually to establish the details of your procedure, Dr. Andan will give you a cost estimate. New York Surgical Arts also offers financing options for those who qualify.

FAQ

How long will I need to rest after my breast augmentation before I can return to work?

You will be able to return to light desk work after resting for approximately one to two weeks, but you will need to delay your return for several more weeks if your career is physically demanding or strenuous. Dr. Andan will let you know when you can return to all of your normal activities.

How long do the results of a breast augmentation fat transfer last compared to a breast implant augmentation?

The transferred fat that stays fixed after your initial healing phase will remain in place permanently. On the other hand, breast implants are not lifetime devices and will require eventual replacement. In any case, the longevity of your results will be improved if you maintain a healthy lifestyle and a stable weight. Substantial weight fluctuations may impact the appearance of your breasts.

Will there be significant scarring after my breast augmentation?

Dr. Andan takes great care when placing each incision during breast augmentation to ensure they are minimally visible. His patients are able to hide scarring easily beneath swimsuits and even revealing clothing.

When can I start exercising again after my breast augmentation?

Most patients can begin exercising after their breast augmentation after about 4 to 8 weeks. However, light walking and less strenuous forms of exercise may begin a little sooner. The rate at which you return to your exercise routine will ultimately be up to Dr. Andan. He will let you know when you can return to all of your normal activities based on your individual healing rate.

Will my breast implants look natural?

Breast implants are designed to look natural. The best implants for you depend on your frame, body type, skin thickness, and the current size of your breasts.

Will breast augmentation affect nipple sensation?

Some patients experience temporary changes in nipple sensation after their procedure. Sensation usually returns after the patient fully heals. If you have concerns about long-term nipple sensation changes, please discuss these with Dr. Andan.

Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?

Many patients are able to breastfeed after breast augmentation, although patient experiences may vary. We generally recommend waiting until after your pregnancy and after you are done breastfeeding to avoid any concerns. In any case, you should articulate your concerns to Dr. Andan so that he can provide the best advice.

How soon will I see the final results of my breast augmentation?

You will notice immediate changes in your breasts after your procedure, but the results will take some time to settle. After swelling subsides, you will be able to see your results more clearly. Patients are typically able to see their results after about 6 weeks.

How should I sleep after my breast augmentation?

You should sleep on your back with your chest slightly elevated—this will ensure that you can sleep comfortably and avoid irritating your breasts while they heal.

What should I avoid during the early stages of recovery?

You should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise, swimming, and sleeping on your side or chest. We will give you a list of activity restrictions so that you know what to expect.

How do I care for my incisions after breast augmentation?

Dr. Andan will provide you with a list of instructions for how to care for your incisions. You should be mindful of them when moving, avoid scented lotions, keep the areas clean and dry, and follow aftercare instructions. Immediately after your procedure, there will be dressings over your incisions, which Dr. Andan will change for you at a follow-up appointment.

References

  1. Fardo D, Sequeira Campos M, Pensler JM. Breast Augmentation. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482206/
  2. Shih L, Davis MJ, Winocour SJ. The Science of Fat Grafting. Seminars in Plastic Surgery. 2020;34(01):005-010. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0039-3402073