Recovering from breast lift surgery can be a journey filled with anxiety and anticipation, especially as your body undergoes significant changes. At Cassileth Plastic Surgery, we understand how being well-informed about what to expect during the healing process can lead to a more relaxed and comfortable recovery. Our female-led team, based in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles, is committed to providing exceptional care and guidance throughout your recovery. Here are five crucial things to know to ensure a stress-free and successful recovery after your breast lift surgery.
1. Managing Pain and Discomfort: The first 24-48 will be the most challenging, with moderate pain and discomfort. It’s important to relax and limit unnecessary movements. Maintaining light activity, like moving your feet up and down, can help prevent blood clots. Our team may prescribe narcotic pain medication to aid in your comfort, but it’s important to use it only as needed due to potential side effects like constipation, which can compound those related to anesthesia. Always follow the prescribed directions closely.
2. Managing Anesthesia-Related Symptoms: It’s not uncommon to experience symptoms such as nausea, constipation, and bloating following surgery due to the effects of general anesthesia.1 While these symptoms are normal, they can be uncomfortable. To help alleviate them, we can provide specific medication. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and eating a healthy diet rich in fiber can significantly aid in reducing constipation and bloating. Remember, these post-surgery experiences peak 2 or 3 days after surgery and are part of the normal healing process.
3. Understanding Sensations & Monitoring Changes: Post-breast lift, experiencing chest tightness, stiffness, or sensations like tingling and intermittent shooting pain is normal, as your body heals.2 Note any changes in nipple sensitivity, such as hypersensitivity or reduced sensation, and report excessive fluid seepage. Swelling may cause shiny skin and itchiness, treatable with antihistamines. Alert us immediately if you experience consistent sharp pain, skin redness, or heat, as these could indicate complications.
4. Incision & Scar Management: After your breast lift, sutures are typically removed within two weeks. While scars will gradually become less noticeable over several months, our comprehensive scar protocol is designed to further enhance this process. We offer a range of options, including specialized creams and gels to aid in scar reduction. Additionally, for those seeking advanced treatments, we provide various laser and skin tightening and smoothing therapies aimed at minimizing scar appearance. These laser treatments can significantly improve the skin’s texture and the overall aesthetics of the surgical area.
5. The Critical Role of Patient Compliance: Adhering strictly to post-operative guidelines is the single most vital aspect of a successful recovery following a breast lift surgery. Your commitment to following all recovery protocols, including activity restrictions, wearing compression garments, adhering to medication schedules, and attending follow-up appointments, cannot be overstressed. Patient compliance directly influences the healing process, the outcome of the surgery, and the minimization of potential complications. We urge you to take these instructions seriously, as your active participation is key to achieving the best possible results from your procedure.
At Cassileth Plastic Surgery, your well-being is our top priority. Remember, every individual’s recovery journey is unique, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or concerns during your recovery. We’re dedicated to ensuring you feel supported, comfortable, and informed throughout your healing process.
1Â European Journal of Anaesthesiology. The gastrointestinal tract after anaesthesia. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7641642/. Accessed November 28, 2023.
2Â Cleveland Clinic. Breast Lift. Available: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23298-breast-lift. Accessed November 28, 2023.
