How to Make Swelling Go Down After a Breast Augmentation
Swelling is typically nothing to worry about after a breast augmentation. However, we understand it can feel painful and affect your daily routine. For the first six months, you may experience many symptoms, one of which being swelling.
In this article, we will cover:
- How to make swelling go down after a breast augmentation
- How long does swelling last for after a breast augmentation?
- Are there any symptoms I should be concerned about?
- Why does swelling happen?
How to Make Swelling Go Down After a Breast Augmentation
It is important not to intervene with the natural recovery process after a breast augmentation. However, there are things you can do to potentially quicken your progress, such as:
- Asking family or friends for help with daily activities for six weeks
- Asking your surgeon if you can take anti-inflammatory and pain medication
- Asking your surgeon if heat and ice packs are okay to use
- Not driving for one week
- Reducing heavy lifting and exercise for one month
- Staying hydrated
- Sleeping upright (on your back)
- Taking one or two weeks off work
- Wearing a compression or sports bra 24/7 for three months
Please ask your surgeon for recovery advice before trying these methods or continuing with your regular routine.
How Long Does Swelling Last for After a Breast Augmentation?
Swelling after a breast augmentation is completely normal. Your swelling will typically subside after 4 to 6 weeks.
You may also experience other symptoms for 3 to 6 months after the surgery. For example, you may have:
- Bruising
- Firmer breasts
- Higher-positioned breasts
- Mild swelling
- Muscle pain or soreness
- Pain around the nipple or scar area
- Uneven breasts or nipples
Are There Any Symptoms I Should Be Concerned About?
During and even after your recovery, if you start to notice any abnormalities, you must contact your surgeon immediately for a consultation.
Such symptoms include:
- A burning sensation
- Abnormal bruising
- Colour changes of your skin
- Lumps
- Nerve problems
Why Does Swelling Happen After a Breast Augmentation?
As a result of the incision and implantation, it is completely normal to experience swelling after a breast augmentation. In fact, many surgeries are followed by swelling, and it protects you from further injury.
It is an indicator that your chest is tighter, usually because of the extra fluid, pressure and movement of the implant. Your breasts and muscles just need to become used to the new placement.
Breast Augmentation at Suffolk Breast Practice
If you are concerned about your breast swelling, book a consultation with our specialist Dr Hussein Tuffaha. Our team is fully qualified and has years of experience with a variety of breast concerns and surgeries.
Our leading surgeon has achieved the following accreditations and awards:
- UK cosmetic surgery register
- iWantGreatCare certificate in 2022/2023
- Royal College of Surgeons of England
- Association of Breast Surgery
- And TopDoctors
To learn more, visit our breast augmentation page and read our article to discover what implant size might be for you. If you have any questions, please contact us today.
