Breast implant cosmetic surgery has become less invasive and less painful over the years due to improvements in surgical techniques.
However, the procedure still involves a vital recovery component to ensure safe and predictable results. The patient should be prepared to follow the surgeon’s instructions for a complete and successful recovery.
Board certified and prolific plastic surgeon Dr. Eugene Kim provides breast implant surgery and other cosmetic and reconstructive procedures to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and other cities and neighborhoods in this part of the state. Dr. Kim and his team will help the patient prepare well for a safe recovery.
Estimated Downtime
In most cases, the patient will be required to stay home for about one week after breast implant cosmetic surgery. During this period, the patient should take sufficient rest, but should also perform light activities and short walks to improve blood flow in the incision sites. Strain to the incisions should be avoided in this phase.
The overall recovery period and precise downtime will differ between two patients, depending on factors such as the type of implant surgery technique used, the size of the implants, the implant location above or below the pectoral muscle, the skill of the operating surgeon, and the patient’s innate healing ability.
Most patients will return to their regular routine or go back to work in about 10 to 14 days. But vigorous exercises and lifting of heavy weights should be avoided for about one month.
Post-Surgical Garments
If the patient has received submuscular implant placement, she will be required to wear a special surgical bra provided by the surgeon. She will have to wear it at all times for a few weeks, except while bathing. If the patient has undergone subglandular implant placement, she may wear a normal bra without underwire because the incisions will minor in this case and will heal fast.
A wrap-style bandage or a surgical bra enables harmonization of the implant with the muscle and breast tissue. The patient should use this bra until the healing is completed, in order to allow the breasts to acquire their new shape. Experienced,, hardworking, and devoted plastic surgeon Dr. Kim receives patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and nearby areas for breast implants.
No Smoking during Recovery
Post-op healing and smoking do not go together. Tobacco contains nicotine, which can cause shrinkage of the blood vessels, leading to reduced blood oxygen levels in the body. This can hinder the normal functioning of the red blood cells, causing a slower recovery and an increased risk of complications.
Prescription Pain Medications
Mild pain meds may be prescribed in the first week following breast implant surgery. This will help the patient manage initial soreness and pain in the incision sites. The patient must avoid driving and other activities requiring alertness while she is on pain meds.
Follow-up Appointments
Sutures and drain tubes may be removed around the end of first week after breast implant surgery. Additional appointments may be scheduled to monitor the progress of healing and ensure safe and desired outcomes.
Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.
