Top tips for minimising swelling and bruising after breast augmentation
Breast augmentation is a widely popular cosmetic surgery in the UK that offers various benefits to enhance one’s looks and confidence. However, it is crucial to ensure proper recovery after the surgery. Bruising and swelling are among the most common side effects of breast augmentation, caused by the manipulation of breast tissue during the procedure, which triggers the body’s natural response to trauma.
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Breast augmentation surgery involves incisions and changes to the breast tissue, which may damage nearby blood vessels and cause blood to accumulate under the skin, resulting in bluish-purple discolouration on the skin’s surface. As the leading breast augmentation clinic in London, surgeons at Centre for Surgery prioritise achieving the most attractive and natural-looking breasts for their patients while also providing support during the recovery period.
Our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional patient care throughout the surgery and recovery phases.
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How Long Does Swelling after Breast Augmentation Last?
In the first few days after surgery, the swelling may be quite significant, and the breasts may feel tight and uncomfortable. This is normal and will gradually improve over time. In the first week after surgery, the swelling will begin to subside, and patients may notice an improvement in the shape and appearance of their breasts.
However, it can take several weeks for the swelling to resolve completely, and patients should be prepared for this. Most swelling will typically be gone within six weeks after surgery, although some patients may experience residual swelling for a few months.
It’s important to note that every patient is different. The recovery time can vary depending on factors such as the type of surgery performed, the individual’s healing process, and their overall health. Patients should follow their surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully, including wearing compression garments as directed, avoiding strenuous activity, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor their progress.
How to Reduce Bruising and Swelling After Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that involves the placement of breast implants to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. One of the most common side effects of breast augmentation is bruising and swelling, which can cause discomfort and affect the healing process. Here are some tips to help reduce bruising and swelling after breast augmentation:
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Follow Your Surgeon’s Postoperative Instructions
Following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions is crucial to ensuring a successful recovery after breast augmentation surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions tailored to your individual needs, which may include recommendations for reducing bruising and swelling. These instructions may include taking medication, wearing compression garments, avoiding certain activities, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
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Apply Ice Packs
Applying ice packs to the breasts can help to reduce swelling and discomfort after breast augmentation surgery. Ice can help to constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the affected area, which can help to prevent bruising and swelling. It is recommended to apply ice packs for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day during the first few days after surgery.
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Avoid Strenuous Activities
Strenuous activities can increase blood flow to the affected area and cause further bruising and swelling after breast augmentation surgery. Patients should avoid activities such as heavy lifting, exercise, and bending over for several weeks after surgery. Patients should also avoid wearing tight clothing or bras that can put pressure on the breasts.
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Elevate Your Upper Body
Keeping your upper body elevated can help to reduce swelling after breast augmentation surgery. Patients should prop themselves up with pillows when sleeping or resting, and avoid lying flat on their backs. This can help to promote better blood circulation and prevent the accumulation of fluid in the affected area.
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Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential for promoting healing and reducing swelling after breast augmentation surgery. Patients should drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate the body and cause further swelling.
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Take Arnica
Arnica is a natural remedy that is known to help reduce bruising and swelling after surgery. It is available in various forms, including tablets and creams, and can be purchased over the counter. Patients should consult with their surgeon before taking any supplements or medication after surgery.
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Massage Your Breasts
Gentle breast massage can help to reduce swelling and discomfort after breast augmentation surgery. Patients should wait until their surgeon gives them the go-ahead to start massaging their breasts, typically several weeks after surgery. Massage can help to promote better blood circulation, reduce scar tissue, and enhance the appearance of the breasts.
Things to avoid to minimise swelling and bruising after breast augmentation
To minimise swelling and bruising after breast augmentation, it is important to avoid certain things that can exacerbate these issues. Here are some things to avoid:
- Strenuous activity: Avoid engaging in any strenuous activity, such as heavy lifting or exercise, for at least 4-6 weeks after surgery. Strenuous activity can increase blood flow to the breasts, which can worsen swelling and bruising.
- Smoking: Smoking can decrease blood flow to the body’s tissues, which can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It is recommended to stop smoking at least two weeks before surgery and refrain from smoking for at least four weeks after surgery.
- Alcohol: Alcohol consumption can also slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It is recommended to avoid alcohol for at least two weeks before surgery and for at least four weeks after surgery.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as blood thinners and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising. It is recommended to avoid these medications for at least two weeks before surgery and for at least two weeks after surgery.
- Heat: Heat can increase blood flow to the breasts, which can worsen swelling and bruising. It is recommended to avoid hot showers, hot tubs, and saunas for at least two weeks after surgery.
By avoiding these things, you can help to minimise swelling and bruising after breast augmentation and promote a smoother recovery. It is important to follow your surgeon’s specific instructions for post-operative care to ensure the best possible outcome.
SWELLING AFTER BREAST AUGMENTATION FAQs
Is bruising and swelling normal after surgery?
Yes, bruising and swelling are normal after breast augmentation surgery.
How long does swelling last after breast augmentation surgery?
Swelling can last for several weeks after breast augmentation surgery. The majority of the swelling usually subsides within the first few weeks, but it can take up to several months for all of the swelling to completely go away.
How do you reduce swelling after breast augmentation surgery?
To reduce swelling after breast augmentation surgery, it is important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions. Some tips for reducing swelling include:
- Staying hydrated
- Getting enough rest and avoiding physical activity
- Wearing compression garments as directed by your surgeon
- Using ice packs or cold compresses as directed
- Avoiding salty or processed foods
- How many days should you put ice on the breasts after the surgery?
Ice packs or cold compresses can be used for the first 48 to 72 hours after surgery, as directed by your surgeon.
Can you ice too much after breast augmentation surgery?
Yes, over-icing can lead to tissue damage. It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions for icing and not to exceed the recommended time limit.
When does bruising stop after surgery?
Bruising can take several weeks to go away completely. However, the majority of the bruising usually subsides within the first two weeks.
How do you reduce bruising on your breasts after surgery?
To reduce bruising on your breasts after surgery, it is important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions. Some tips for reducing bruising include:
- Avoiding blood thinning medications or supplements before surgery
- Staying hydrated
- Getting enough rest and avoiding physical activity
- Using arnica cream or taking arnica supplements, as directed by your surgeon
- Applying warm compresses or taking warm baths after the first few days of recovery
- What do you put on your breasts after surgery?
Your surgeon will provide you with post-operative instructions on what to put on your breasts after surgery. This may include antibiotic ointment, gauze, or a compression garment.
Does ibuprofen help with breast swelling?
Ibuprofen can help with swelling and discomfort after breast augmentation surgery, but it is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions for pain management. Your surgeon may advise against taking NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, in the postoperative period.
When can I sleep on my side after breast augmentation?
It is important to avoid sleeping on your side for at least the first few weeks after breast augmentation surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on when it is safe to resume sleeping on your side.
Should I massage my breasts after breast augmentation?
Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on when and how to massage your breasts after breast augmentation surgery. Massaging the breasts can help to reduce swelling and promote healing.
How do you prevent scarring after breast augmentation surgery?
To prevent scarring after breast augmentation surgery, it is important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions. Some tips for preventing scarring include:
- Keeping the incisions clean and dry
- Avoiding sun exposure or using sunscreen on the incisions
- Wearing compression garments as directed
- Not smoking, as smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of scarring
- What can I put on my scars after breast augmentation surgery?
Your surgeon may recommend applying silicone sheets or silicone gel to the incision sites to help minimise scarring.
When should I use scar treatments after breast augmentation surgery?
Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on when to start using scar treatments after breast augmentation surgery. It is typically recommended to wait until the incisions have fully healed before starting scar treatments.
Breast augmentation surgery at Centre for Surgery
At Centre for Surgery, we take pride in being the foremost clinic for cosmetic surgery in the UK, with a team of skilled plastic surgeons based in London. Our clinic exclusively uses top-quality Mentor breast implants that have been scientifically tested and come with a comprehensive warranty. To learn more about the recovery process following a breast augmentation, you can call us on 020 7993 4849 or fill out the contact form provided below.
