Breast lift surgery can change the shape and position of the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening surrounding tissue, which raises their position. While this procedure can address breast changes related to ageing, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss, proper recovery is essential for achieving the intended results. The breast lift recovery period requires some specific care steps to support healing, lower the risk of complications, and reduce post-operative discomfort. Below are key recovery tips to help patients navigate the healing process.
1. Follow Post-Operative Care Instructions
Before you go home, Dr Broadhurst will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions tailored to support your healing. These instructions will include guidance on wound care, managing any swelling, taking medications, and specific activities to avoid. In addition, you will need to take certain medications, such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, to address swelling and discomfort. It is important to adhere to these instructions and report any unusual signs and symptoms immediately.
2. Wear a Supportive Surgical Bra
After the surgery, you will have to take care of the surgical incisions by reducing tension and preventing further injury to the area to promote healing. To do this, you will need to wear a supportive surgical bra twenty-four hours a day, except when bathing, during the initial recovery period. This specialised bra helps minimise swelling, provides gentle compression, prevents fluid build-up, and supports the breasts as they heal, which can also aid in maintaining the new breast shape. The surgeon will provide the post-surgical bra to wear, as well as the duration. Make sure to avoid bras with underwire as it can irritate the healing incisions, thus increasing the risk of complications.
3. Limit Physical Activity
Part of breast lift recovery involves limiting physical activity to allow the incisions to heal. Engaging in strenuous activities, high-impact exercises, heavy lifting, or any activities that involve arm or chest strain should be avoided for six weeks or until the surgeon approves. These activities can put unnecessary pressure on the incision sites which can lead to reopening of the wound and increase your risk of post-surgery complications. However, you can still engage in light activities, such as gentle walking, to improve blood circulation and prevent blood clots from forming. Make sure to listen to your body and take necessary breaks when performing the recommended activities.
4. Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Balanced Diet
Hydration and nutrition are fundamental to healing after surgery. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins, maintain blood circulation, and reduce swelling. A well-hydrated body can better manage the effects of anaesthesia and medications. Nutrition is equally important, as a diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals helps speed up the wound healing process. Make sure to avoid salty foods, as they can promote water retention, resulting in increased swelling. Moreover, avoid caffeine and alcohol intake as they can dehydrate the body, interfere with healing, and potentially interact with prescribed medications.
5. Monitor for Any Signs of Complications
During breast lift recovery, make sure to watch out for unusual signs and symptoms, such as increased swelling and bruising, significant pain, delayed wound healing, pus draining from the wound, warmth, redness or fever. If you experience any of these, contact the clinic immediately for further medical evaluation and management. Early intervention can often prevent a minor issue from becoming a significant problem, ensuring your recovery progresses as planned. In addition, it also prevents additional surgeries, such as revision surgery, to address complications.
6. Attend All Follow-Up Appointments
Follow-up appointments are an integral part of breast lift recovery. These appointments allow the surgeon to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns or questions you may have. These visits give the surgeon the opportunity to examine the incision sites, assess breast shape and symmetry, and ensure the healing process is progressing as expected. Most importantly, the assessment process allows the surgeon to adjust the treatment plan according to your specific needs.
Reasons to Choose Dr Broadhurst for Breast Lift Surgery in Brisbane
Dr Andrew Broadhurst’s qualifications are recognised by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), demonstrating his commitment to meeting rigorous national medical standards. He holds fellowships with both the Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS Plast.) and the Royal College of Surgeons (FRCS), affirming his extensive training in plastic surgery. These fellowships reflect his adherence to high standards in surgical practice and dedication to professional growth within the field of plastic surgery.
Dr Broadhurst has over 18 years of experience in performing breast lift surgery in Brisbane and other locations, ensuring patients receive care tailored to their specific needs. He conducts thorough pre-operative assessments to understand each patient’s condition and discusses realistic outcomes, providing a clear plan for surgery. His approach involves careful surgical techniques to minimise tissue trauma, which can aid in recovery and reduce the risk of complications.
To support breast lift recovery, Dr Broadhurst provides detailed post-operative care instructions at his Brisbane clinic, covering aspects such as managing discomfort, caring for incision sites, and when to safely resume daily activities. He schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process, ensuring any concerns are addressed promptly. This comprehensive approach helps patients follow their recovery plan with clear guidance and support.
