The Fastest Way to Recover From Breast Augmentation: From Diet and Supplements to Scar Care

May 8, 2023


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

January 11, 2017

Dear Dr. Andrews,
Thank you so much for all you’ve done for me and my family. You are trustworthy, kind and personable. We really appreciate you and your talent. Thank you!*
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Dear Dr. Andrews, Thank you so much for all you’ve done for me and my family. You are trustworthy, kind and personable. We really appreciate you and your talent. Thank you!*

Everything is great!!

Just had my surgery from Dr. Andrews and everything is great!! He is the most kindest Dr. ever!*
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2017-01-22T15:30:46-06:00
Just had my surgery from Dr. Andrews and everything is great!! He is the most kindest Dr. ever!*

You change peoples’ lives!

You change peoples’ lives! Words cannot express how much I love my new girls! Thank you so much for giving me exactly what I wanted. You are amazing!*
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You change peoples’ lives! Words cannot express how much I love my new girls! Thank you so much for giving me exactly what I wanted. You are amazing!*

I am a patient at Dr. Andrews!

I am a patient at Dr. Andrews! I highly recommend utilizing their services. Very thorough consultations, educational and informative. They give you lots of options to fit your needs and guide you through it. Amazing staff that is highly trained with the most up to date procedures and tools. I can't say enough about Dr. Andrews and his amazing staff!*
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2016-09-28T15:22:01-05:00
I am a patient at Dr. Andrews! I highly recommend utilizing their services. Very thorough consultations, educational and informative. They give you lots of options to fit your needs and guide you through it. Amazing staff that is highly trained with the most up to date procedures and tools. I can't say enough about Dr. Andrews and his amazing staff!*

June 26th, 2013

Dr. Andrews is an artist. His academic credentials are second to none. You can see that sensibility in every aspect of his practice, and his life. His outcomes are exceptional, and there isn’t a surgeon anywhere that I trust more.*
2015-02-10T19:25:22-06:00
Dr. Andrews is an artist. His academic credentials are second to none. You can see that sensibility in every aspect of his practice, and his life. His outcomes are exceptional, and there isn’t a surgeon anywhere that I trust more.*

May 27th, 2013

I am beyond happy with my results. I had extra skin hanging from my abdomen after gaining weight from pregnancies. Dr. Andrews was compassionate and understanding about how this affected me and my self-esteem.*
2015-02-10T19:25:46-06:00
I am beyond happy with my results. I had extra skin hanging from my abdomen after gaining weight from pregnancies. Dr. Andrews was compassionate and understanding about how this affected me and my self-esteem.*

May 27th, 2013

I can now wear bikinis! I continue to work out and can finally see the results of my hard work. Thank you Dr. Andrews – a California gem in the midwest!*
2015-02-10T19:26:11-06:00
I can now wear bikinis! I continue to work out and can finally see the results of my hard work. Thank you Dr. Andrews – a California gem in the midwest!*

June 1st, 2013

Dr. Andrews is one of the best plastic surgeons I’ve worked with! His patients are very pleased with their results. I highly recommend him!*
2015-02-10T19:26:35-06:00
Dr. Andrews is one of the best plastic surgeons I’ve worked with! His patients are very pleased with their results. I highly recommend him!*

Jan 24th, 2013

Dr Andrews was wonderful!! Great Guy… awesome job on my reconstruction!!*
2015-02-10T19:26:55-06:00
Dr Andrews was wonderful!! Great Guy… awesome job on my reconstruction!!*

Nov 2nd, 2012

I had suffered debilitating Hidradenitis. He gave me the ability to have a normal life again. My scars look amazing and he was able to close with the most beautiful lines! He was such a caring doctor who is so gifted. I hope to follow his practice wherever he may go!*
2015-02-10T19:27:28-06:00
I had suffered debilitating Hidradenitis. He gave me the ability to have a normal life again. My scars look amazing and he was able to close with the most beautiful lines! He was such a caring doctor who is so gifted. I hope to follow his practice wherever he may go!*

Oct 29th, 2012

Dr. Andrews was the absolute best doctor for me - very informative, sensitive, and caring with just the right amount of humor during the appointments.*
2015-02-10T19:27:54-06:00
Dr. Andrews was the absolute best doctor for me - very informative, sensitive, and caring with just the right amount of humor during the appointments.*

Extraordinary doctor

Before saying that you are an extraordinary doctor, I want to tell you that you are an extraordinary human being. Thanks for showing me so much care and concern.*
2015-03-30T12:00:04-05:00
Before saying that you are an extraordinary doctor, I want to tell you that you are an extraordinary human being. Thanks for showing me so much care and concern.*

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I wanted to write you a thank you letter because I would never be able to find the words to say how much I appreciate everything you did for me. Thanks to you I can feel normal and not always worry if people will find out about my problem. I can’t even begin to say thank you enough or to show my gratitude. You’re an amazing person, wonderful doctor, and my hero. All in all, you ROCK!!!*
2015-03-30T12:00:42-05:00
I wanted to write you a thank you letter because I would never be able to find the words to say how much I appreciate everything you did for me. Thanks to you I can feel normal and not always worry if people will find out about my problem. I can’t even begin to say thank you enough or to show my gratitude. You’re an amazing person, wonderful doctor, and my hero. All in all, you ROCK!!!*

You all are the best!

Thank you so much for ALL of your help in my recovery thru “sometimes emotional” journey with my cancer. You all were always professional and took the time with my long list of questions. I can n0t thank you enough! Easter is my favorite time of the year and I pray God will continue to strengthen your gift and skills in healing because you all are the best!*
2015-03-30T12:02:02-05:00
Thank you so much for ALL of your help in my recovery thru “sometimes emotional” journey with my cancer. You all were always professional and took the time with my long list of questions. I can n0t thank you enough! Easter is my favorite time of the year and I pray God will continue to strengthen your gift and skills in healing because you all are the best!*

Amazing!

I’m ecstatic with my new body. It is PERFECT! I can’t even put in wordshow we feel, You are so compassionate unlike any Doctor I’ve met. I realize I’ve been a needy patient and you handled me well. You’ve gone above and beyond with me after hours for medications and issues. Also more quotes than necessary, but you did it! Your work ad attentiveness to my expectations I can’t say enough!! Now to pu the finale pictures in your gallery to show how complete I am now! You are AMAZING! Thank You! It’s been a very long, hard journey! Now to live life with the new ME!*
2015-03-30T12:02:20-05:00
I’m ecstatic with my new body. It is PERFECT! I can’t even put in wordshow we feel, You are so compassionate unlike any Doctor I’ve met. I realize I’ve been a needy patient and you handled me well. You’ve gone above and beyond with me after hours for medications and issues. Also more quotes than necessary, but you did it! Your work ad attentiveness to my expectations I can’t say enough!! Now to pu the finale pictures in your gallery to show how complete I am now! You are AMAZING! Thank You! It’s been a very long, hard journey! Now to live life with the new ME!*

With appreciation

With appreciation for putting me back together!*
2015-03-30T12:02:40-05:00
With appreciation for putting me back together!*

I am forever grateful

I consider myself blessed to be under your care as I navigated the stormy sea of breast cancer diagnosis, surgery, reconstruction, and recovery. I cannot thank you enough and am so pleased with the results! You have all been wonderful, and I will miss seeing you even though I am thrilled to be healed and moving on! The impact you have on patients who are scared and overwhelmed cannot be overstated...and I am forever grateful.*
2015-03-30T12:03:02-05:00
I consider myself blessed to be under your care as I navigated the stormy sea of breast cancer diagnosis, surgery, reconstruction, and recovery. I cannot thank you enough and am so pleased with the results! You have all been wonderful, and I will miss seeing you even though I am thrilled to be healed and moving on! The impact you have on patients who are scared and overwhelmed cannot be overstated...and I am forever grateful.*

Thank You

Thank you. For me, you are as similar as God because you created me again. It’s an amazing feeling. I feel my earlier life back again. Once again thank you very much from the bottom of my heart.*
2015-03-30T12:03:24-05:00
Thank you. For me, you are as similar as God because you created me again. It’s an amazing feeling. I feel my earlier life back again. Once again thank you very much from the bottom of my heart.*

April 12, 2016

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2016-05-05T11:40:35-05:00
Since my hysterectomy, sex has been extremely painful. I suffered from extreme dryness and discomfort. I had no sex drive and was no longer able to experience an orgasm. Until, recently, when a friend told me about Courtney Albritton and the ThermiVa treatment. I have had 2 of the 3 treatments and immediately experienced positive results. I am still in awe of the results I have experienced. The procedure was painless. Until ThermiVa, I had come to the realization that my sex life would no longer be what it once was pre-hysterectomy. I highly recommend this procedure.*
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