Everything You Need To Know About Breast Lift Recovery

Everything You Need To Know About Breast Lift Recovery : Breast enhancement surgery has been popular among women for decades, and its popularity is not diminishing. When hearing breast surgery, however, many automatically think about adjusting breast size (either larger or smaller).

But that is not the only reason that people undergo breast surgery. In fact, one of the more popular options is breast lift surgery.

A breast lift (also known as mastopexy) is a cosmetic procedure that lifts sagging breasts and restores them to a more natural, youthful position on the chest. This surgery can be performed alone or in combination with a breast augmentation, breast reduction, or breast revision.

For women who are interested in breast lift surgery, an important piece of information to have is knowledge of breast lift recovery.

This article will unpack what you need to know about breast lift surgery recovery before you decide to go under the knife. Read on to learn more.

What Is a Breast Lift, and Why Do People Get Them?

Breast lift surgery is a procedure that changes the shape and appearance of your breasts. During a breast lift surgery, there are several things that a plastic surgeon can do for you. They include:

Making your breasts more symmetrical to each other
Lifting your breast higher on your chest
Removing excess skin
Reshaping your breasts to get a rounder shape
Reducing the size of the areola and repositioning it on the breast

As you age, your bodies go through a lot of changes. The skin loses its elasticity and causes your breasts to sag. Some of the reasons you may need a breast lift surgery include:

Aging
Gravity
Substantial weight loss
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Genetics

Recovering From a Breast Lift

Breast lift surgery recovery takes at least six weeks; however, you will feel like your normal self again much sooner than that. However, every person is different, and the recovery time may vary from one person to the other.

The recovery majorly depends on the extent of the procedure done, the patient’s age, and the patient’s overall health.

On the Day of the Surgery

The surgery takes at least one to two hours. After the procedure, the doctor will take you to a recovery room, where they will observe you for some time before discharging you. After you wake up from the surgery, you will feel sore and may experience some fatigue and dizziness. Your surgeon will prescribe medication to alleviate this discomfort.

After a breast lift surgery, it is essential to have someone to drive you home from the hospital or surgery center. You will also need help around the house for the first few days.

Three Days After the Surgery

The first three days after the surgery are the toughest. You will have swelling and bruising around your breasts; you may also experience some discomfort. However, the pain medication should help with this.

One Week After the Surgery

After the first week, the swelling and bruising will begin to subside. You can move around the house and lift your hands above your head. Avoid all strenuous activities during this time.

Two to Three Weeks After the Surgery

By the third week of a breast lift surgery recovery, the swelling and bruising will have subsided, and you can start participating in light exercises. You can also return to work; however, if your job involves a lot of strenuous activities, you should wait until the doctor clears you.

Four to Six Weeks After Surgery

By the fourth week, you can resume your routine, but you should still avoid strenuous activities. The swelling should subside (at least significantly) within this time. Your incisions should also be fully healed by the sixth week, and you can resume wearing your regular bras. Opt for supportive bras and do not wear an underwire until you are sure that your incisions are fully healed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Breast Lift Results Last?

The results of breast lift surgery are long lasting. However, some things, such as pregnancy, weight fluctuations, and the natural aging process, may affect the results.

What Can I Do to Help My Recovery From a Breast Lift?

You can do some things to help your recovery go faster and smoother. They include:

Wear a support bra
Follow your doctor’s instructions
Avoid baths and swimming pools
Get lots of rest and sleep
Avoid strenuous activities
Wear loose, comfortable clothes during your recovery
Sleep on your back
Have help around the home in the first week or so
Eat a healthy and nutritious diet
Avoid smoking and alcohol

What Are the Possible Complications After a Breast Lift Surgery?

Like any other surgery, a breast lift has the potential for complications. Some of the possible complications include:

Scarring
Infections
Bleeding and blood clots
Extended swelling and pain
Loss of sensation in the nipples
Asymmetrical breasts
Skin discoloration

Can I Raise My Arms After a Breast Lift?

You should avoid raising your arms for the first 10 days after breast lift surgery.