When Does Swelling From Breast Augmentation Go Away?

As the top body contouring procedure in the U.S., breast augmentation surgery is perfect for women who want to enhance the size and shape of their breasts. This is achieved through the use of saline or silicone implants that are customized based on a patient’s unique build. Finding the right qualified plastic surgeon can help you feel confident about your procedure as well as your breast implant surgery recovery.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi understands that some patients are concerned about the risk of swelling and inflammation post-operation. Even though this side effect is temporary, you will require some extra attention and care. The professionals at SSK Plastic Surgery can provide tips and advice about swelling after breast augmentation and how to feel more comfortable.

Rest assured that Dr. Kelishadi has performed countless breast augmentation procedures on patients throughout Newport Beach, CA, and the surrounding areas. We hope to deliver excellent results, no matter your cosmetic goals. So, when does swelling go down after breast augmentation, and what should you expect during recovery? Learn the answers to these questions and more by scheduling an online consultation.

What happens during breast augmentation surgery?

During breast augmentation surgery, Dr. Kelishadi places silicone or saline breast implants through a small incision. The breast implant type and incision location are both chosen during the initial consultation. Implants are traditionally placed inside of a pocket above or below the pectoralis major muscle based on the amount of original breast tissue and your desired outcome. Once the incisions are closed, patients are taken to a recovery area for observation and to decrease the risk of infection or other complications. After a brief period of observation, patients are free to return home with a responsible adult.

About breast implant surgery recovery

Although a good surgeon can help reduce uncomfortable side effects as much as possible, most patients feel sore or experience swelling after breast augmentation. Since this is considered major surgery, you need plenty of time to rest and recover. You are welcome to take short, slow walks around the house to encourage healthy circulation, but do not lift anything heavy or participate in strenuous exercise until you have been cleared by the team at SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA. We will provide helpful aftercare instructions about breast implant surgery recovery so you can avoid any activities that may make the swelling worse.

Swelling after breast augmentation

So, when does swelling go down after breast augmentation surgery? Usually, most swelling occurs in the first 3 – 4 days after surgery, but you may see some minor swelling around the breasts for several weeks. Educating yourself about the healing process and taking proactive steps can reduce any unwanted inflammation and speed up your recovery time. For example, wearing a compression garment or surgical bra for at least a week can assist with swelling and help you feel more comfortable.

One of the best ways to address swelling after breast augmentation is with a combination of cold compresses and ice packs. Ice is a great go-to solution for the first few days of recovery. This is because ice can numb the area and minimize the pain associated with inflammation. Try using a cold compress on the inflamed tissue as needed, but do not apply the ice directly to the incision site or nipples. Dr. Kelishadi also recommends sleeping in an upright position for about a week after surgery, since this can prevent fluids from accumulating in the area.

Remember to drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated for the duration of the recovery process. Water and nutritious foods can help your body heal faster and more efficiently. If you experience issues, such as severe pain, signs of infection, bleeding, discharge from the treatment area, or swelling that does not go away over time, reach out to SSK Plastic Surgery immediately for an assessment. We will be able to guide you through your next steps.

Recover from breast augmentation with confidence

One of the biggest challenges patients face is finding a trusted and experienced cosmetic surgeon. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi is an expert who can learn about your goals and design a personalized procedure that meets your needs. If you have questions about swelling after breast augmentation or breast implant surgery recovery, we hope you schedule a visit with SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA. We can provide you with the resources you need to move forward with breast augmentation with confidence.