A cosmetic surgery procedure such as breast augmentation is fairly customizable, depending on the patient’s breast anatomy and her unique aesthetic goals. Therefore, the recovery process can vary from one patient to another. Sometimes breast augmentation may be combined with other plastic surgery procedures such as breast lift or liposuction, and the recovery will be slightly longer.
The cosmetic surgeon will discuss the recovery aspects with the patient during the initial consultation to help her make an informed decision. Dr. Brian J. Parker is a plastic surgeon providing breast augmentation and other procedures to patients in Las Vegas and surrounding areas.
Immediate Phase after Surgery
Once the breast augmentation procedure is completed, the surgeon’s staff will shift the patient to a separate recovery area for observation. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia, and the patient may need a few hours to recover fully from its effect. The cosmetic surgeon will determine if the patient if the patient is fit enough to go home, and in most cases, patients will return home the same day.
It is a good idea for the patient to arrange for someone who can drive her back home after the procedure. Breast augmentation is a major cosmetic surgery, and preferably someone should stay overnight with the patient for the first one or two days. The breasts will initially be covered in dressings, and a temporary drain may be placed beneath the skin to collect excess blood or fluid. The patient will be required to wear a special support bra for the first few weeks to promote faster healing.
As an experienced plastic surgeon, Dr. Parker makes sure that the patient is given detailed post-op care instructions for the recovery period. He will provide a follow-up appointment, which is usually one week after the date of surgery. Patients in Las Vegas and surrounding areas have an opportunity to receive breast augmentation and other procedures from Dr. Parker.
Recovery Process
Most patients are likely to experience mild pain and discomfort in the first week after breast augmentation plastic surgery. This can be managed with over the counter medications or some drugs prescribed by the surgeon, along with medications to reduce the risk of infection. Bruising and swelling will gradually resolve over a period of several weeks.
Once the sutures are removed after the first week, most patients can return to work, as long as it does not involve heavy lifting of weights or vigorous physical activity and strain. Strenuous exercises should be avoided for at least four to six weeks to allow time for proper healing. As far as possible, the patient should try to rest in a semi-upright position in the first few days to support better healing.
Contacting the Surgeon
During the recovery period, if the patient notices any abnormal symptoms such as sharp pain in the breasts, unusually pronounced swelling, persistent burning or stinging sensation in the wound bed, high fever, dizziness or other symptoms, she should get in touch with the surgeon immediately.
If you would like to learn more about the plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Brian J. Parker by contacting us at (702) 240-9500.