*Updated on Monday, June 12, 2023
We Will Work Together to Optimize Your Recovery in Chicago
After breast augmentation at our Chicago-based Whole Beauty® Institute, it’s likely that you’ll experience a feeling of confidence, happiness, and satisfaction with your results. However, before you undergo breast augmentation, it’s helpful to know what to expect so that you can be better prepared. It goes without saying that breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure that requires plenty of pre-surgery prep and post-surgery recovery. Each patient is different, and recovery time will vary based on such factors as implant size, type, and placement.
One of my goals for my patients who undergo breast implant surgery is to optimize their recovery after breast augmentation surgery. This means ensuring a quick return to normal light activity and minimal discomfort. There are things that I can do during the surgery to help with this process, and there are things that you the patient can do that are equally important.
We Can Help You Have a Faster, Smoother Recovery from Breast Augmentation with These Techniques
Low-Trauma Surgical Approach
The first thing that I can do to help your recovery has to do with meticulous surgical techniques. In the more than 20 years that I have been performing breast enhancement surgery, I have developed a strategy that emphasizes a delicate approach to breast structures. This low-trauma approach leads to less inflammation, and with less inflammation there is less pain.
Long-Acting Local Anesthetic
I also make use of a long-acting local anesthetic, so that when you are in the recovery area after surgery, you are pleasantly surprised by the low level of discomfort. This local anesthesia carries you through to a smooth recovery.
Muscle Relaxant Medications
My patients also make use of muscle relaxant medications after surgery. By relaxing the pec muscle, these medications limit the discomfort that comes during the adjustment period when the pec muscle gets used to having an implant beneath it. This, in turn, reduces the need for narcotic pain medication, so that there is less likelihood of nausea.
The Right Type of Implants
My general philosophy of breast augmentation also helps my patients during recovery from surgery and beyond. By selecting implants that are artistically matched to your breasts’ dimensions and do not over-stretch the breast structure, we avoid an artificial result and reduce discomfort in the early days after surgery.
Our Team Plays an Active Role in Your Recovery
During your recovery, my team and I will guide you to take an active role in your recovery. This helps you to return to normal light activity as quickly as possible.
In the recovery area, we will apply ice packs to your chest area. This reduces swelling and pressure.
What You Do at Home Is Also Important
When the anesthesia wears off, it is normal to experience some discomfort in the surgical area. We encourage you and your caregiver to continue to apply ice packs to the chest area during your recovery, especially during the first 24 hours. You should take it easy for several weeks and slowly transition to your normal routine. It is desirable for you to return to normal light activity, but you should avoid situations where you will be jostled. You should not lift heavy objects, and you should avoid pressure against the chest.
We also recommend that patients avoid sleeping on their stomachs because the pressure can cause stretching of the scar tissue and alter the results. After you’ve just recovered, it’s better not to do push-ups—especially if your implants have an under-the-muscle placement—since this can cause them to be pushed out of place.
The use of Tylenol in safe doses and muscle relaxants in the first few days after surgery reduces your need for stronger pain pills. This keeps you clear-headed and free of nausea.
Your diet will also influence your recovery. As my patients know very well, I have been interested in the beneficial effects of nutrition for many years. We encourage nutritional preparation for your surgery and continue this during the recovery period. We emphasize foods that are rich in antioxidants such as blueberries, raspberries, pomegranate juice and colored vegetables.
It’s important to remember that the shape of the breasts will continue to change in the following months as they settle.
Enjoy Your New Look
Knowing what to expect from breast augmentation can help you have the best possible experience, achieve the outcome you want, and know how to care for your enhanced breasts during recovery. You will also feel more confident about the procedure when you’re armed with the right knowledge and information. With this in mind, it’s important to ask any questions you have and voice any concerns during your consultation.
For more advice about breast augmentation, contact Dr. John Q. Cook and the team at Whole Beauty® Institute. Call us at 312-751-2112 or fill out a contact form to request a consultation.