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BREAST AUGMENTATION: RECOVERY, DAY BY DAY
At least 3 days off (3 weeks or more for physical work); stitches out at about a week.
Day by day
- Day 1 to 3Tightness and soreness. Surgical bra on; sleep on your back.
- Week 1Stitches out.
- Week 4 to 6Lifting and exercise again at about 6 weeks.
Flying home
Your surgeon signs you off. Usually at least 1 to 2 weeks after face surgery, and up to 4 weeks after a general anesthetic. On the plane, wear compression stockings, drink water and walk around.
Avoid
- Heavy lifting for at least 4 weeks
- Sleeping on your front
- Exercise for about 6 weeks
Pack
- A soft front-closing bra
- Button-front tops
- Extra pillows
Call your clinic or get help if
- One breast swelling or hardening with pain
- Calf pain or swelling, chest pain, shortness of breath or coughing blood (possible blood clot): emergency care now.
- Fever over 38°C, pus, or a wound that opens.
- Sudden swelling and pain on one side.
- Pain that gets worse instead of better.
General information from medical sources (Cleveland Clinic, NHS, ASPS, AAD and published studies), not medical advice. Your clinic's own aftercare instructions come first.
Frequently asked questions
- How long is the recovery after breast augmentation?
- At least 3 days off (3 weeks or more for physical work); stitches out at about a week.
- When can I fly home after breast augmentation?
- Your surgeon signs you off. Usually at least 1 to 2 weeks after face surgery, and up to 4 weeks after a general anesthetic. On the plane, wear compression stockings, drink water and walk around.
- What should I avoid after breast augmentation?
- Heavy lifting for at least 4 weeks. Sleeping on your front. Exercise for about 6 weeks.
- What should I pack for breast augmentation in Seoul?
- A soft front-closing bra, Button-front tops, Extra pillows.