Breast Augmentation Implant Surgery Recovery

Recovery is an important component of the overall breast augmentation implant plastic surgery. The patient should take recovery as seriously as the surgery itself, and stay committed throughout the recovery period to achieve best outcomes. Following the surgeon’s post-operative care instructions will help to achieve a safer and speedier recovery.

The Virginia Institute, led by board certified plastic surgeons, provides breast augmentation implant surgery and other surgical and non-surgical procedures. Patients in Richmond, Virginia, and surrounding communities have an opportunity to receive breast augmentation implant surgery at MBody.

Expected Downtime

Following breast augmentation implant surgery, the patient should take plenty of rest for at least three days at home. Short walks are encouraged from the second day to promote blood flow. In the next three to four days after the initial phase, the patient may perform mild household chores that do not place strain on the incisions. Excessive bending and lifting of heavy weights should be avoided at this time.

Actual downtime can vary from one patient to another, depending on the surgical technique used for implant placement, location and size of incisions, and the patient’s natural ability to heal. Most patients can resume their normal routine or return to work in about 10 to 14 days. Strenuous exercises should be avoided for at least three weeks after breast augmentation plastic surgery.

Surgical Bra

For the first one or two days following breast augmentation implant surgery, the breasts will be wrapped in a compression garment. This will later be replaced with a surgical bra, which should be worn at all times except when bathing. Wearing this special bra is particularly important in case of submuscular implant placement.

The surgical bra will support healing and allow the implant to harmonize with the breast tissue and muscle. The wounds will heal well and the breasts will acquire a more natural shape. In case of subglandular implant surgery, some patients may only use a normal bra without underwire. Experienced plastic surgeons at the Virginia Institute receive patients from Richmond, Virginia, and nearby areas for breast augmentation.

No Smoking during Recovery

Post-operative healing and smoking do not go together. The nicotine in the tobacco will shrink the blood vessels, leading to reduction of oxygen levels in the blood and obstructing the function of red blood cells. This can prolong the healing process, and increase the risk of complications.

Pain Management

Some degree of pain and discomfort in the incision areas will be experienced in the first week. The surgeon may prescribe mild pain meds to enable the patient to stay comfortable during the initial recovery. Driving and operating any machinery should be avoided while the patient is using pain medications.

Follow-up Visits

Most patients will return home the same day after breast augmentation. The surgeon may call them the next day to review the condition. Some surgeons will have the first follow-up visit at the end of the first week to monitor progress. Drain tubes and stitches may be removed at this time. The surgeon may recommend certain exercises or massages to improve the surgical outcome.

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Board Certified Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. Reps Sundin and Dr. Burton Sundin please visit

Serving Northern Virginia, Washington DC, Vienna, McLean, Fairfax, Loudoun County, Ashburn, Tysons Corner, Reston, Arlington, Fredricksburg, Chevy Chase, Potomac, Maryland Richmond, VA and surrounding communities.