Breast lift surgery involves removing excess skin and tightening surrounding tissue to raise and reshape the breasts. This procedure can result in some swelling and bruising as the body begins to heal, which is a normal part of the recovery process. Managing breast lift swelling can help reduce discomfort, achieve the intended results, and contribute to a successful recovery. Prior to discharge, you will receive specific aftercare instructions to address these symptoms and support proper healing. Here are some tips that you need to follow during breast lift recovery.
1. Wear a Supportive Surgical Bra
A breast lift involves surgical incisions and manipulation of tissues, thus requiring a certain amount of time to heal. The primary goal during the healing process is to avoid further tension or pressure on the incision sites, which can cause further injury. To prevent this, you should wear a supportive surgical bra. This specialised bra provides gentle compression around the breasts, which helps prevent fluid build-up, reduce breast lift swelling, and maintain stability for the newly shaped tissue. You will need to wear a surgical bra at all times, except during bathing, for 6 weeks.
2. Keep Your Head Elevated While Resting
Keeping your head and upper body elevated, especially while sleeping, can help reduce post-operative swelling. By keeping your head and upper body in an elevated position (30-45 degrees), fluid is drained away from your chest. This, in turn, prevents excess fluid from pooling around the surgical area. To maintain an elevated position, use two to three pillows or a recliner when resting or sleeping. However, make sure not to sleep on your side or stomach, as this can put pressure on the incision sites. To prevent accidental movement during sleep, try arranging pillows around your body for additional support and stability.
3. Apply Cold Compresses Carefully
During the initial healing period, swelling and bruising in the surgical area are more noticeable. To address discomfort and reduce these symptoms, you can apply cold compresses around your breasts. Cold therapy reduces blood flow to the affected area, reducing the inflammatory process and bruising. However, make sure not to place the cold compress directly on the breasts or incisions to avoid unnecessary tension or pressure. Apply the compress for 10-15 minutes or as recommended by the surgeon. In addition, do not apply ice directly to the skin, as this can lead to cold burns.
4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Staying hydrated helps speed up the recovery process, as water helps flush out toxins and transport oxygen and nutrients to cells, which are necessary for cell growth and repair. This, in turn, reduces inflammation and stimulates wound healing. In addition, eating anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits (like berries), vegetables (such as leafy greens), and lean proteins (like fish), can help manage swelling. Moreover, eliminate processed foods in your diet as they contain high amounts of salt, which can lead to fluid retention and bloating.
5. Avoid Strenuous Activities and Heavy Lifting
During the initial stages of recovery, any form of strenuous activity, especially heavy lifting, should be avoided. This is because they can put significant pressure or strain on the healing breast tissue, increasing the risk of injury or reopening of the wound. In addition, these activities can increase blood flow to the chest area, which may exacerbate swelling and bruising. However, you are allowed to engage in light activities, such as walking, to promote blood circulation and lower the risk of blood clot formation.
6. Follow Prescribed Medications and Avoid Certain Substances
Following prescribed medications, such as pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs, can aid in managing post-surgical symptoms. Make sure to take them on time and as prescribed by the surgeon to support your recovery and reduce discomfort. Aside from this, you should avoid certain substances, such as alcohol or nicotine from cigarettes, as they can interfere with the healing process. Alcohol affects the body’s blood clotting mechanism, while nicotine restricts blood flow – all of which can significantly delay wound healing.
7. Be Patient with the Healing Process
Healing from a breast lift takes time, and it’s natural for swelling and bruising to persist for several weeks or even longer. Complete healing after the breast uplift surgery can take about 3 to 6 months, though the timeline varies for each patient. After two to four weeks, you can notice a reduction in swelling and bruising, allowing you to resume most of your daily activities. However, residual swelling may still be present, and it can take several months for the final result to become more noticeable.
It is important to keep in mind that the recovery process varies depending on factors such as the extent of the procedure, adherence to post-operative instructions, and individual healing capacity. During the consultation at the Brisbane clinic, Dr Broadhurst will assess each patient’s unique anatomy, discuss any medical conditions or lifestyle factors that may affect healing, and provide customised guidance on what to expect during recovery.
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.
In his practice, Dr Broadhurst conducts comprehensive consultations with each patient to assess their specific needs, health history, and anatomical characteristics. During the consultation at his Brisbane clinic, he discusses realistic expectations, procedural details, and potential outcomes based on individual factors. By thoroughly evaluating each patient’s breast structure, skin elasticity, and overall goals, he develops a tailored surgical plan that aligns with the patient’s unique requirements. This planning approach also includes a discussion of post-operative recovery, allowing patients to understand the steps involved in healing after a breast lift.
