Breast Implants

The breast implant recovery time varies from person to person. Factors like age, medical condition, skin type and surgery techniques affect the recovery time. The recovery period also depends upon whether the implants were put under the breast muscles or on top of the breast muscles. Under-the-muscle surgery has more incisions, and requires more recovery time. In addition, patients with more risk factors need a lengthier time and a cautious approach during recovery, whereas younger and healthier individuals quickly recover after the implants.

There are several different stages of the breast implant recovery process. The stitches used in the surgery will dissolve on their own in a week or so. Immediately after the surgery, contraction bandages are used to prevent blood or fluid accumulation and help speed the healing process. After two days, these bandages are replaced by contraction bras. These bras are usually worn for about two weeks. During the recovery period, some women experience minor drainage, bruising, swelling or tenderness. To alleviate these symptoms, cold packs are often suggested. Pain reliever medicines are prescribed to reduce any kind of pain. Most women may experience a few areas of numbness in the breast after the surgery as well. This is due to bruised nerves and trauma from the incision. While the nerves are recovering, some women experience sensations similar to small electrical shocks, but this is normal and indicates that the nerve activity is returning. These sensations may last for about a month.

Generally, after surgery the breasts feels tender and tight, and the nipple sensation is reduced. There is also some swelling and bruising, causing occasional pain. However, these symptoms diminish within a few weeks. Also, in most cases, the breasts that one sees immediately after breast implant surgery are not indicative of the final results. It is only after six to eight weeks after the surgery that you see the desired shape. A good surgeon always advises patients to get complete rest for around two weeks. This helps patients get adjusted to their new implants and reduce the risk of scar tissue formation. Allowing enough time for breast implant recovery shows pleasing results in the end.