Instructions for Post-Surgery Care After Breast Plastic Surgery
Breast plastic surgery, such as breast augmentation, can enhance a person's appearance and boost their self-confidence. After undergoing this procedure, it is essential to follow proper post-surgery care instructions to ensure optimal healing and minimize the risk of complications.
This article provides comprehensive guidelines for caring for yourself after breast plastic surgery.
- Symptoms that may occur after surgery After breast plastic surgery, it is common to experience some of the following symptoms:
- Pain: Within the first 24-48 hours after surgery, you may experience pain around the incision area. This discomfort is a normal part of the healing process and can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
- Swelling and bruising: Some swelling and bruising at the surgical site are expected. However, excessive swelling or bruising should be monitored and reported to your surgeon.
- Limited shoulder and arm movement: Pain and the use of an immobilization belt can restrict shoulder and arm movement temporarily. Follow your surgeon's instructions regarding movement limitations and gradually resume normal activities as advised.
- Persistent pain: A sudden increase in chest volume after surgery may cause persistent pain. If you experience intense or prolonged pain, notify your surgeon immediately.
- Nipple sensitivity changes: While uncommon, some individuals may experience temporary changes in nipple sensitivity. This should improve as you heal.
- Temporary breast disproportion: Swelling may vary on each side, leading to temporary breast disproportion. Rest assured that this should gradually improve over time.
- Avoid scratching, bumping, or pressing on the surgical area, as this can cause bleeding or hematoma formation.
- Take prescribed antibiotics, pain relievers, anti-edematous drugs, and anti-scar medications as directed by your surgeon.
- Change the dressing within 24 hours after surgery and allow yourself to rest completely for 5-10 days.
- Apply cold packs to the surgical area for the first 2 days, ensuring the temperature is safe by checking with your hand. Place a layer of clean gauze between the cold pack and the skin surface to avoid thermal burns.
- Starting from the fourth day, switch to warm compresses to help reduce swelling and bruising.
- Follow a soft food diet for 5-7 days, avoiding hard foods. Opt for options like plain rice porridge, soups, and pureed foods.
- Avoid foods that may contribute to keloid scars, itching, festering, or affect skin pigmentation. These include water spinach, chicken, seafood, sticky foods, fishy foods, eggs, beef, and hot and spicy food. Additionally, refrain from consuming stimulants like alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and beer, as they can delay the wound healing process and increase the risk of infection.
- Remove the bandage and cut the thread after 7 days. You can start bathing the day after the thread removal. If you underwent breast crease surgery, you may shower on the third day after surgery, avoiding scrubbing around the surgical area. The duration of care may vary depending on individual circumstances.
- Avoid vigorous exercise, such as golfing, going to the gym, swimming, or heavy lifting, for at least 3 months. Additionally, avoid breast massage during sexual activities.
- When wearing a supportive bra, ensure that the bra crease aligns with the band to provide proper support. Wearing the bra incorrectly may compromise the breast crease.
- Refrain from going to saunas or engaging in activities that generate excessive heat for 4 weeks after surgery, as this may impede the healing process.
- If you experience unusual signs such as severe pain, excessive swelling, sagging, or any other concerning symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention at a reputable medical facility. Timely treatment measures can address any complications and ensure optimal healing.
Remember, every individual's recovery process may vary slightly, so it is essential to communicate with your surgeon and follow their specific instructions. They will provide personalized guidance based on your unique circumstances and the specifics of your surgery.
In conclusion, post-surgery care after breast plastic surgery plays a crucial role in achieving successful results. By diligently following the guidelines outlined in this article and maintaining open communication with your surgeon, you can promote proper healing, minimize complications, and enjoy the long-term benefits of your breast plastic surgery.
