Woman checking her breasts after augmentation surgery

Breast augmentation continues to be a popular choice for women looking to enhance or alter the shape or size of their breasts. Yet, there are still many misconceptions revolving around the recovery process

It can be overwhelming to think about surgery and post-operative care, which is why it’s important to do your due diligence and prepare for your surgery and recovery process.

The reality is that breast augmentation surgery comes with minimal risks if you visit a board-certified surgeon and reputable clinic that follows Health Canada’s safety guidelines. Health Canada issues a medical device license for those offering breast augmentation and monitors all implants for their safety, effectiveness, and quality to ensure that patients have a smooth surgery and seamless breast augmentation recovery.

If you’re looking for an experienced and certified plastic surgery clinic in Toronto that prioritizes its patients, visit GraceMed to connect with our industry professionals. Our surgeons are equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to help you with your preparation and recovery after your breast augmentation surgery.

Learn more about your breast augmentation recovery timeline to avoid complications and reduce unnecessary stress.

Breast Augmentation Recovery Timeline

The recovery timeline for breast augmentation varies from person to person as it will depend largely on the individual’s medical history, overall health, and adherence to post-op protocols. GraceMed offers a few different types of breast surgery, and your recovery will also depend on the nature of the surgery you choose.

Our specialist surgeons will provide you with a unique post-op plan after your treatment, but there are some general timeline guidelines that can help you prepare for the treatment and save you from surprises after the procedure.

The Day After

Your breasts are likely to be firm and tight on the first day following your surgery. You may notice moderate bruising and experience pain or sensitivity around the breasts and nipples.

It is essential to be extra mindful of every step you take the day following your surgery, as you are likely to feel weak and experience discomfort during this time. Try to focus on resting and avoid wearing regular bras from this day until you have recovered.

Woman holding two different types of breast implants

1 Week After

A week after the procedure, your breast implants will remain high and compressed but have a little more projection after a week passes. Although your breasts may seem firm, your nipples will still appear low. The swelling and bruises will tone down at this time.

During the first week of recovery after your breast augmentation, your breasts may resemble pecs more than natural breasts, but they will start to look more natural once they heal. Although you may experience some itching or burning, you can start walking slowly. If you feel intense pain or swelling at this time, consult your surgeon or give yourself more time to heal and refrain from engaging in strenuous activity.

2-4 Weeks After

After your body adjusts to the breast augmentation surgery, you may notice the bottom rounding of your breasts become more pronounced at this stage. You may notice your implants dropping at this point, but this will depend on the breast implant sizes and varies by patient.

You may experience shooting pains and itching during this time, but you shouldn’t experience swelling or extreme pain. If you feel physically ready at this time, you can begin an additional physical activity that doesn’t involve pressure on the upper body or require bouncing.

6 Weeks After

As you continue the breast augmentation recovery process, you’ll notice less frequent pains during this time. Your implants will look more natural, your breasts will start to soften, and your nipples will slowly start rising to the center of your breasts.

During this period, you could notice asymmetry in your breasts, but note that this is a normal occurrence as your implants are still settling in.

Your surgeon may give you the green light to start sleeping on your side during this stage, but you should still avoid sleeping on your stomach. Since your incisions are likely to be closed by this time, you can engage in activities that include water. That said, it is best to avoid swimming at this stage as it will require you to move your arms, which could strain your upper body.

Woman sleeping on her back

2-3 Months After

You may notice a significant difference in your breasts within the first two to three months after treatment. Although your breasts will be more pronounced during this time, you may still notice some level of asymmetry, which will even out after you fully recover.

If you’re considering breast augmentation surgery in Toronto, visit a GraceMed clinic in Mississauga, North York, or one of our other GTA locations, where we have specialized surgeons that can guide you through the process and help you understand what you should do after breast augmentation recovery. Our specialists will evaluate your progress and let you know if you’re ready to increase your physical activity level.

4 Months After

Your breasts might fully heal four months after the surgery, but some patients require another month or two of recovery. Although you may still need to be careful depending on your individual needs, most patients can resume upper body workouts by this time.

If your surgeon gives you the green light to start exercising again, you might be ready to ditch the post-op bra and use a fitted sports bra with support. That said, it is necessary to remember that you may not be ready to jump right back into your old workouts if they were intense. Gradually start incorporating your regular workout routine into your sessions and take it one day at a time.

6 Months After

Although the exact breast augmentation recovery time can vary, most patients notice their breasts fully healed six months after the treatment. Your breasts will be in an optimal position and will be softer to the touch.

When you choose GraceMed for your breast augmentation or breast lift in Toronto or other locations, rest assured that you’ll be in good hands. Our specialists will take their time to ensure that your breasts and incisions have healed. Our surgeons take an individualized approach and provide you with the knowledge you need to heal comfortably. Since everybody is unique, the recovery time can vary from person to person. You may need to schedule a follow-up appointment to make sure that your breasts have healed correctly.

Woman wearing workout gear and exercising in her living room

Tips for Seamless Recovery

The first step to breast augmentation recovery is recognizing that everyone heals differently. Your recovery timeline can look completely different from a friend or family member. Many factors contribute to your recovery timeline, such as your age, the type of breast implant you chose, lifestyle habits, and overall health.

Although the same methods may not work equally for every breast augmentation candidate, understanding the basics of recovery can help you speed up the process and prevent complications. Follow these breast augmentation recovery tips to get one step closer to viewing your brand-new breasts in their best form.

Follow Your Surgeon’s Post-Op Instructions

The breast augmentation experts at GraceMed provide patients with individualized plans based on their unique needs. Although the general recovery process is similar, some steps or timelines may vary depending on your surgery type.

For example, women who choose breast fat transfer for their treatment instead of implants may have a more extended recovery period. Since a fat transfer involves using liposuction to remove fat from other body areas and insert them into the breasts, the process is longer, so the recovery could look different.

Following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions is crucial as they know the best methods to speed up your recovery and reduce the risk of complications. Consult your surgeon and clear any doubts about the instructions and follow them until your breasts have fully healed.

Avoid Strenuous Activities

Engaging in high-intensity activities within the first few months of your treatment can hinder the results and cause unnecessary complications. Wait until after breast augmentation recovery to bounce back into your daily routine.

Your surgeon will advise you on how much activity you can engage in during your recovery. Make sure to clarify the activity level and the maximum time you can spend performing it to ensure there are no risks associated with it.

Wear the Right Type of Bra

It is important to avoid wearing regular bras after breast augmentation during your recovery and opt for post-surgical ones instead. The right bra can enhance the healing process and boost the results. On the other hand, the wrong bra may prolong your recovery by adding extra pressure on your breasts.

Choose the bras you wear after your breast augmentation surgery carefully and wear them 24/7, except when showering. A bra helps implants settle in the correct position when capsules form during your recovery. Do your research or consult your surgeon to determine the right type of bra to wear during your recovery from breast lift and augmentation. Avoid bras with underwires that cause discomfort and be sure to wear specialized post-op bras.

Display of three different types of comfortable bras

Don’t Neglect Infections or Unusual Pain

If you notice any infections or unusual pain, consult your surgeon or make an emergency visit to the hospital. Although it is unlikely for major complications to arise during your recovery as our surgeons ensure patient safety, everybody is different. A medical professional should immediately look at any unexpected infection or pain source to stop the matter from escalating.

Prioritize Follow-Up Care

It is necessary to prioritize follow-up care and refrain from making medical decisions without expert help. Even if you feel ready to start exercising or resuming other normal activities, your body might not be ready. The only way to know for sure is by consulting your surgeon.

Your surgeon will most likely inform you when you need to go back for follow-up care. Try to stick to the schedule and avoid missing appointments.

Sleep on Your Back

Being cautious of the position you sleep in is crucial during breast augmentation recovery. You may need to sleep only on your back for a few weeks after your treatment. After your breasts start to heal and become more pronounced, you might be ready to start feeling on your side again if it doesn’t feel too uncomfortable.

One of the most challenging breast augmentation recovery tips to follow is avoiding sleeping on your stomach if that’s how you feel most comfortable. Unfortunately, sleeping on your stomach until your breasts recover can cause pain, discomfort, and also slow down the healing or shift the implant placement.

Plastic surgeon showing breast implant to patient

FAQs About Breast Augmentation Recovery

Although breast augmentation is a standard procedure, many potential candidates have questions about the recovery process. Here are some of the most common questions circulating about recovery after a breast augmentation.

Is Recovery After a Breast Augmentation Painful?

Some pain and tenderness are typical for a few weeks after breast augmentation surgery. You may experience swelling and bruising, but this will subside after a few weeks. You can manage your pain after breast augmentation by taking medication and following your surgeon’s guidelines.

GraceMed’s surgeons provide post-op instructions and incision care to guard against complications after breast augmentation recovery. Follow the guidelines to prevent risks and seek immediate medical care if you experience intolerable pain or discomfort.

When Should I Schedule My Surgery for a Smooth Recovery?

Be mindful of when you schedule your breast augmentation surgery to enhance your recovery process. Think about how much time you can take off if you have any significant events coming up and whether or not a friend or family member will be around to offer assistance as you recover.

Choosing the right time for your surgery reduces the risk of unexpected events that could hinder your healing process.

How Long Do Breast Implants Last?

The life expectancy of a breast implant depends on the type of implant you choose. Since most modern breast implants are well-crafted and durable, they are expected to last a long time. The typical lifespan of saline products is ten years, while silicone gel may last 12 to 15 years. But there is no definite expiration date on implants, and they can even last longer.

Consult a Specialist for More Information

Scheduling a breast augmentation surgery appointment can be overwhelming if you don’t know enough about the recovery timeline. Knowing what to expect after your breast augmentation surgery can ease you into the process and reduce your stress. After breast augmentation recovery, you can resume your daily life and enjoy your brand-new look.

Consult GraceMed’s breast augmentation experts to learn more about the process and get started on your transformation today!