Breast lift recovery with implants takes about 1-2 weeks for most women. Please limit strenuous activities for several weeks, however, and sleep only on your back for a couple of weeks. If you are accustomed to sleeping on your back, you can use pillows to keep you from turning over during the night. You must also avoid lifting very heavy objects until your chest feels more comfortable.
Gauze dressings will be placed on your incisions after surgery, and a soft breast wrap (like a halter top) is worn overnight. You will be seen in the office within the first few days, and you will be given an elastic surgical bra to wear for a few weeks.
You will be given thorough written instructions to recover from your procedure, and the instructions will include how to change your dressings and ways to prevent infection. Follow-up examinations will be scheduled with your surgeon to ensure that you are healing properly.
Bruising and soreness is usually present for the first 1-2 weeks, and some swelling may last for a few weeks to several months. Bear in mind that this will delay your ability to see the final results of your surgery, although you will be able to see a positive change in your breasts immediately. By 3-6 months after surgery, the breasts usually settle into their final shape.
Post-operative pain can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medications, but most patients do not take pain medications for more than a few days.
Regular examinations and routine mammograms can help ensure that any complications are detected and treated early. While your breasts can sag again as a result of aging, pregnancy, and/or weight fluctuations, the results of a breast lift with implants is long-lasting.
Breast implants do not have to be removed and exchanged unless you develop a problem. Most implants last over 10-20 years. Most women are thrilled with the results of their breast lift/breast augmentation.