Recovery process for breast augmentation surgery

The recovery process for breast augmentation surgery is somewhat simpler than other surgeries.

The patients usually ask about the healing process for breast surgery due to many concerns (read about plastic surgery myths).

Even though for breast surgery, there is no stitches removal, patients are recommended to stay 7 days post-surgery to have a check-up before leaving.

We put together a healing process timeline to help you prepare better for your surgery in Korea.

Recovery time differs per individual.

Recovery process for breast augmentation surgery: Before Surgery

Avoid alcohol and smoking for 1-2 weeks before surgery and 1-3 months after surgery.

Do not have any blood thinners like aspirin for 1-2 weeks before surgery.

The surgeon will see you for a consultation and prior to surgery, draw a design and prepare your surgical plan. The surgery is done under general anesthesia at ID Hospital.

On the surgery day, you have to fast for 8 hours before surgery (no food, water or even medicines).

Recovery process for breast augmentation surgery: After Surgery

You will get discharged 3-4 hours after the surgery after doctor’s check-up.

A blood bag is not used normally but in some cases, if required, it may be used for 1 day.

Major swelling takes 2 to 3 weeks to reduce but you can get back to your normal routine within a week.

Have your prescribed medication (antibiotics, muscle relaxers, painkillers etc.) on time after eating. Never take medication on an empty stomach.

Recovery process for breast augmentation surgery: 1-3 Days Post-surgery

Do not sleep sideways or facing downwards, sleep on your back and keep your head level above your heart level.

You have to wear the compression bra and band for 24/7 for a month after surgery.

Recovery process for breast augmentation surgery: 1 Week later

From the 7th day onwards, you have to start taking the medicine for preventing capsular contracture (separate box given).

You will have a swelling care session if you had surgery at ID Hospital.

You cannot go to the sauna/steam room for 4 weeks.

Avoid smoking and alcohol for 1-3 months after surgery.

Do not wear glasses or exercise for a month after surgery.

Recovery process for breast augmentation surgery: 1-6 Months later

After 1 month, you can start using the scar treatment ointment (available at any pharmacy, no prescription required).

For the correction bra and band, after 1 month, you can switch to wearing it daily for a few hours. However, it is mandatory to wear it for 3 months when you sleep.

You can start light exercises after one month.

At the 3 months mark, you can begin sleeping on your side. You can also start wearing a sports bra.

Recovery process for breast augmentation surgery: 6 Months to a year

At this point, your breasts have healed completely and you will be able to see the final surgery results.

You can wear underwired bras and do more intensive workouts.