What to Expect after Breast Lift Recovery

Age, pregnancy, and nursing can damage your breast tissues and stretch your skin. You may be struggling with drooping or unusually shaped breasts that affect your appearance and self-esteem. If so, a breast lift can give you a perky, youthful figure. Also known as mastopexy, this procedure is very safe and poses few long-term risks. As with most surgeries, you will need to set aside some time for recovery. The exact amount of time will depend on your particular procedure and how your body responds to the healing process. Before your surgery, Dr. Passaretti will explain what you can expect during recovery. He will also provide tips to speed your healing, reduce discomfort, and minimize scarring. 

Breast Lift: A Review

During a breast lift, Dr. Passaretti will raise sagging muscles and remove stretched, loose skin. He can use one of several techniques to perform the surgery, and he will choose the method that most suits your goals and body type. He will create either anchor-shaped incisions or incisions that encircle your areolas. Through the openings, he will then lift sagging muscle, redistribute or remove fat deposits, and trim away excess skin. If desired, he can also place breast implants in conjunction with your mastopexy. When he has created the desired shape and size, Dr. Passaretti will use small sutures to close up the incisions.

Rest and Caring for Your Breasts Immediately after Surgery

After your breast lift, you should set aside about one to two weeks for complete rest. Though Dr. Passaretti encourages gentle walks around the house, you should not engage in strenuous exercise during this time. During your initial recovery, you will need to wear a compression garment or bandage. The garment will speed your healing, protect your incisions, and help your skin conform to the new shape of your breasts. You will also wear surgical gauze or a bandage for the first few days. Be sure to change the bandages according to Dr. Passaretti’s instructions. In a few cases, he may place drainage tubes just under your skin. They will remain place for a few days, and you will need to clean them periodically.

In addition to caring for your breasts, you should take good care of your overall health. Drink plenty of water, and eat a healthy diet to promote faster healing. Choose foods high in protein, calcium, and vitamins. Lean meat, yogurt, milk, cheese, fruits, and vegetables are all great options.

Returning to Your Daily Routine

Generally, you can return to work in a week to ten days. However, if you have a strenuous job, you may need to take a bit more time off. Dr. Passaretti will also help you decide when to resume your normal exercise regimen. You can typically incorporate new activities gradually over the next four to six weeks. For about a month, you should wear a bra with extra support, and you should avoid underwire bras, as these can irritate the incision sites. You will also need to keep all follow-up appointments with Dr. Passaretti. He will be able to monitor your healing and overall health. He can also provide creams, silicone sheeting, and other treatments to minimize the appearance of scars.

Breast Lift Results

After mastopexy, it is normal to experience some swelling and bruising. These effects should start to subside within a few weeks, and you will begin to see the results of your surgery. Before you know it, you will enjoy a firm, rejuvenated figure, as well as an improved sense of confidence.

Learn More about Breast Lifts and Expected Recovery

Find out if a breast lift is the right option for you. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Passaretti.