What can I do after surgery?
It is important to take it easy after breast surgery, allowing your body time to recuperate and heal. Most patients are cleared of all restrictions at 4 weeks post-surgery.
- You must avoid strenuous activity (specifically, an elevated heart rate) for at least 4 weeks post-op–this includes heavy lifting, exercise and anything stress-inducing
- Keep your arm movements to a minimum for the first 48 hours
- Your arms should not be used to support your body or to lift anything heavy (over 5 pounds)
- While resting, keep your head and shoulders slightly elevated on at least 2 pillows for the first 24 hours
- Try to sleep on your back for at least two weeks, keeping your head slightly elevated
- Gradually increase your activity as you feel more comfortable
When can I shower or take a bath after breast surgery?
You can typically shower 24 hours post-surgery, however many patients will wait a few days or until they are seen in the office by Dr. Lee. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
- You may remove the bra and gauze to shower, keeping the adhesive dressings taped to your body
- Avoid using very hot water
- Do not rub the incisions or let the water hit the area directly; instead, face your back to the water stream and allow it to gently flow over the incisions
- The breasts will be tender, so wash gently and pat dry with a clean towel
- Soaking in a tub is not permitted until at least two weeks post-surgery
When can I return to work?
Depending on the nature of your job and required physical activity, you should be able to get back to work as soon as you are comfortable. While it can be helpful to give yourself 1-2 weeks away, many patients return to desk work within the week after surgery. Strenuous activity and heavy lifting are not permitted until 4 weeks post-op.
Can I drink?
Do not drink alcohol while taking narcotic pain medication after your surgery. It is best to wait 1-2 weeks post-surgery.
Should I apply anything to the incisions?
It is not necessary nor helpful to apply anything to the incisions while the Dermabond glue is still in place. Once all incisions have healed, we will guide you on how to optimize and improve the scar’s appearance–including PERKPotions medical grade scar gel, microneedling, PRP, or more.
When will I be seen after surgery?
You will be seen in the office within one week of your surgery. If any concerns arise, we’ll ask that you come in sooner. We will continue to meet regularly throughout the year following your operation.
When can I wear a bra? What size bra will I be?
You should wear the surgical bra provided or a soft, comfy (no-underwire) sports bra that zips in the front, night and day for at least 3 weeks–removing it only for bathing or changing.
All bra companies vary in sizing so it is difficult to judge what exact cup size you will be after breast surgery. You may find that a different size is needed as the swelling resolves and/or as implants settle, so we recommend waiting six months before purchasing a new “bra wardrobe.”
When can I drive?
It is required that a responsible adult drives you home and cares for you during the first 24 hours post-surgery. Once you are no longer taking prescription pain meds and you can safely move your arms, you may drive yourself–typically 4-7 days after surgery. Do not drive when taking pain medication other than Tylenol.
What should I eat?
A light diet is best for the day of surgery. Begin by taking liquids slowly and progress to soups or jello from there. You may return to a regular diet the following day. We encourage a high protein, low-salt diet.
Can I drink alcohol?
Do not drink alcohol while taking narcotic pain medication after your surgery. It is best to wait 1-2 weeks post-surgery.
