If you’re considering breast augmentation, you’re probably wondering how quickly you can return to your everyday life after the surgery. “When can I sleep on my side?” “When can I drive?” “How long will it take my scars to heal?” These are common questions, and it’s natural to want to know about the particulars of breast augmentation recovery. Of course, not every person heals at the same rate, so the answers vary slightly, but you can generally expect the milestones we outline in this blog post.
When Can I Sleep on My Side After Breast Augmentation?
This issue often causes concern because most people don’t like changing their usual sleeping position. After breast augmentation, you should sleep on your back with your upper body elevated for at least 1 month. Sleeping on your stomach or side after breast augmentation can increase swelling, place uncomfortable pressure on your implants, and affect your results.
You can transition to sleeping on your side after 6 to 8 weeks or when your plastic surgeon says it’s OK. An easy way to train yourself to sleep on your back is to sleep in a recliner or by propping pillows on either side of your body.
How Soon Can I Drive After Breast Augmentation?
You can resume driving 1 or 2 weeks after breast augmentation if you are no longer taking prescription pain medication. Narcotic pain medication can make you drowsy and impair your decision-making, so you should not drive if you still need to take them. Also, consider that your chest area will feel sore, limiting your range of motion.
You should not get behind the wheel until you feel confident that you can drive safely. Have a friend or family member drive you around in the meantime.
How Long Will It Take for My Scars To Heal?
Typically, your scars should heal completely within 2 to 3 months. However, they may still be pinkish in color and have a raised appearance for a few more months. Your scars should be close to completely healed after 6 months to 1 year. Caring for and cleaning your incisions according to your surgeon’s instructions will help minimize scarring.
Be sure to drink plenty of water, avoid smoking, and wear sunscreen while you heal to support your skin’s function, minimizing the appearance of scarring. If you combine a breast lift with your breast augmentation, it might take a little longer for your scars to fade, so be patient!
When Can I Go Swimming After Breast Augmentation?
You should be ready to hit the beach or pool about 3 to 4 weeks after your procedure. Make sure to pat dry your incisions afterward to avoid infection. You should also avoid submerging yourself in water at the pool or the beach if your incisions haven’t completely healed.
A skilled and experienced plastic surgeon can help you prepare for recovery, thoroughly explaining the do’s and don’ts of caring for yourself after surgery. Women who come to us for breast augmentation typically have a smooth recovery and excellent results, as you can see in these before and after photos. To learn more about breast augmentation, request a consultation or call us at (703) 560-2850 to schedule an appointment.
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