There are actually a couple of different manners in which a breast lift can be performed: it can be performed in conjunction with a breast augmentation with implants or it can be performed in conjunction with a breast reduction. The breast lift can also, of course, be performed as a straightforward breast lift with no augmentation or reduction.
Although a breast lift in Los Angeles can be combined with breast augmentation or breast reduction, the recovery process from any of those procedures is expected to be more or less the same- the only difference is the length of time needed before being able to return to work, to resume normal activities and exercises, and to fully recover.
When recovering from a breast lift procedure, you can expect:
- Swelling and bruising- One of the most common effects of the breast lift during recovery is swelling, with most patients also experiencing some level of bruising as well. Although most of the bruising and swelling should dissipate within a few weeks, some patients may have bruising or swelling of the breasts for up to three or four months.
- Discomfort- Though some patients may experience some level of pain during the initial days of their breast lift recovery, most patients will simply feel discomfort. Any post-op pain and discomfort will be managed with prescription pain killers. You should not take any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, until your surgeon tells you that it is okay to do so.
- Mild scarring- The incision sites from your breast lift procedure will remain pink and firm for the first few weeks of your recovery and then slowly begin to fade. Although your scar may never completely fade, with proper care during your recovery, it can be rendered as minimally-visible as possible by following all post-op scar-care instructions as given by your surgeon.
While recovering from a breast lift procedure, it is recommended that you:
- Wear your compression garment/surgical bra as directed- The purpose of the compression garment or surgical bra is to reduce the amount of post-op swelling of the breasts that is experienced; a reduction in the amount of swelling can help lead to a shorter recovery time. These support garments can also help the breasts retain a contoured, full shape while the breast tissue heals, helping to ensure that any further drooping or sagging of the breasts can be kept to a minimum.
- Sleep with your upper body elevated- What this means is that when sleeping, you should prop your back up with several pillows so that you can remain in somewhat of an upright sitting position when sleeping. Not only will this elevation help reduce the amount of post-op swelling and bruising, but it will also help keep the shape of your healing breasts intact.