Breast augmentation surgery can be a life-changing experience, enhancing your self-image and overall well-being. However, you may be hesitant to undergo this plastic surgery because of the recovery involved. Fortunately, there are ways to speed up the recovery process and promote your comfort as you heal.
In this breast augmentation recovery guide, we’ll share valuable insights on diet, supplements, scar care and other tips to promote a fast and successful recovery. By taking proactive steps and following these expert recommendations, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the full benefits of your breast augmentation in no time.
The Power of Diet in Breast Augmentation Recovery
The benefits of a well-balanced diet should never be underestimated, especially when healing after breast augmentation surgery. Your body needs essential nutrients to repair tissues, reduce inflammation and support your overall health during recovery. By making conscious dietary choices and providing your body with the nourishment it needs, you’ll set the stage for a successful and speedy breast augmentation recovery.
Avoid Blood-Thinning Foods Before Surgery
Before your breast augmentation procedure, avoid consuming large amounts of foods that can thin the blood, such as tomatoes, berries, oranges, raisins and pineapples. The blood thinning caused by these foods can contribute to increased surgical bruising. Also, avoid certain supplements, like vitamin E and fish oil, as well as herbs that can thin the blood and exacerbate bruising.
Eat Vitamin K-Rich Foods
Vitamin K plays a vital role in blood clotting and can help minimize post-operative bruising. To see optimal benefits, consume foods high in vitamin K, such as spinach, kale and other green vegetables, before and after breast augmentation surgery.
Eat a Healthy Diet With Adequate Protein
Eating a well-balanced diet is crucial for supporting your body during the healing process. Including lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, legumes and dairy products in your diet can provide the necessary nutrients for a successful recovery. Be sure to eat enough protein, which is essential for tissue repair and wound healing.
Stay Hydrated
Stay hydrated by drinking water and other healthy fluids to help maintain your overall health and promote healing after plastic surgery. Proper hydration supports digestion, aids in nutrient absorption and helps flush out toxins, all of which are crucial for a speedy recovery.
Lifestyle Adjustments for Optimal Breast Augmentation Healing
Rest and Sleep
Getting plenty of rest and sleep is vital for allowing your body to heal correctly after breast augmentation surgery. Sleep supports the immune system and aids in tissue repair, so be sure to give your body the rest it needs.
Wear Compression Garments and Surgical Bras
Wearing a properly fitted compression garment or surgical bra will support your breasts and minimize swelling during recovery. These garments help stabilize the implants and maintain their position, contributing to a more comfortable and successful recovery. Follow your surgeon’s recommendations for how long to wear the garment and any specific guidelines they provide.
Elevate Your Upper Body
Elevating your upper body while sleeping and relaxing can help reduce swelling and improve circulation after breast augmentation surgery. If you don’t have a comfortable lounge chair or adjustable bed, you can use pillows to support your upper body.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Smoking and drinking alcohol can impede healing and increase the risk of complications after breast augmentation surgery. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the surgical site, while alcohol can interfere with your body’s ability to clot and heal.
Gentle Movement and Light Exercise
Engaging in gentle movement and light exercise, such as walking and stretching, can help promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots after surgery. As soon as your surgeon allows it, start incorporating light activities into your daily routine. Always follow your surgeon’s guidelines for when and how to begin exercising.
Supplements for a Smooth Recovery
Your body undergoes significant stress during surgery, and taking supplements can help provide it with some of the necessary nutrients and compounds to aid in the healing process. Supplements can support your immune system, reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair and much more to heal more efficiently and effectively.
Always discuss your plans with your plastic surgeon before taking any new supplements. They will be able to provide personalized guidance based on your individual needs and medical history.
Multivitamin
Taking a high-quality multivitamin can support overall health and recovery during breast augmentation healing. Be mindful of the ingredients in your multivitamin if you’re also taking other supplements, as high quantities of certain vitamins can be harmful.
Bromelain
This supplement has anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce swelling during recovery, helping you feel more comfortable as you heal.
Quercetin
Quercetin is a natural antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation, support the immune system and improve cardiovascular health.
Arnica Montana
This homeopathic remedy is known for its potential to reduce bruising and inflammation.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is vital for collagen production and wound healing. Taking a vitamin C supplement can support your body’s ability to repair itself after breast augmentation.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is crucial for immune function and skin tissue repair, which can help alleviate inflammation and stress as you heal for a faster recovery.
Zinc
Zinc aids in cell growth and supports the immune system to promote a smoother breast augmentation recovery.
Probiotics
A healthy gut is essential for overall health, especially during the healing process. Taking a probiotic supplement or consuming probiotic-rich foods can support beneficial gut bacteria for improved digestion and vitamin and nutrient absorption as you heal.
Collagen
Taking a collagen supplement may help your incision heal better after breast augmentation surgery, as collagen is crucial for wound healing and skin elasticity.
Scar Care: Products and Tips for Optimal Healing
Proper incision care can prevent infections and reduce the visibility of your breast augmentation scars as they mature. Scars go through various stages of healing, and by using the right products and techniques, you can promote an inconspicuous scar appearance that blends seamlessly with the surrounding skin.
Cleanse With a Gentle, Fragrance-Free Soap
Once your surgeon removes your bandages and gives you the all-clear to shower, use your fingertips and a gentle, fragrance-free soap to carefully cleanse your incisions and breasts.
Silicone Sheets or Tape
Wearing silicone sheets or gel over your incisions once they’ve closed can help flatten and soften scar tissue, leading to reduced scar visibility and a more aesthetically pleasing result. These products apply gentle pressure and create a protective barrier that locks in moisture to support healing.
Hydrating Creams
Keeping your scar moisturized is crucial for proper healing. Hydrating creams with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides can help maintain moisture and promote skin elasticity.
Scar Massage
Massaging your scars with a specially formulated scar massage cream can help break down scar tissue and improve flexibility for a smoother, more subtle scar. Follow your surgeon’s guidelines for when to begin scar massage and how to perform it effectively.
Discover More Ways to Promote a Quick Breast Augmentation Recovery
Patience and self-care are essential when it comes to recovering from a plastic surgery procedure like breast augmentation. We understand you’re eager to show off your stunning results, and small changes can significantly impact your recovery timeline. By following your plastic surgeon’s recommendations and implementing the recovery tips that suit your needs, you’ll be on the fast track to healing.
During your breast augmentation consultation with Dr. Andrews, he will review these tips and more to develop a personalized recovery plan tailored to your unique situation. Schedule your consultation today and learn how you can expedite your recovery after breast augmentation and enjoy your beautifully enhanced breasts as soon as possible.
Call Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery at (319) 450-7619 or complete our online request form now!
Further Reading
24 Hour Breast Augmentation Recovery: Fact or Fiction?
What You Need to Know Before Your Breast Augmentation Consultation
