Breast Augmentation Recovery: Everything You Need to Know

• 5 September 2024
• Dr Joseph Rizk

Last updated on May 1, 2025

If you plan to undergo breast augmentation, you may imagine waking up from surgery and enjoying your results from day one. However, the reality is that it takes time for the breasts to settle into their final position. Breast augmentation recovery takes patience, as the healing process can be uncomfortable and frustrating at times, especially since physical activity is limited in the early stages.

Knowing what to expect and how to manage breast augmentation recovery are essential to a successful outcome. This article covers steps you can take to get ready for surgery and manage your expectations as you heal. Once you get past the initial stages of recovery, you can start enjoying your results.

Preparing for Your Recovery

There are steps you can take to make your recovery after breast augmentation go smoothly. As your surgery date approaches, let your loved ones know you will need assistance with driving, pet care, child care and chores, especially during the first week or two.

Preparing your home is an important part of breast surgery recovery. Be sure to have essentials such as food, drinks, toilet paper, tissues, charging devices and loose clothes where you can easily access them. At the grocery store, skip snacks that contain salt, which can worsen swelling. Instead, favour healthy snacks and protein-rich foods that require minimal preparation to eat.

Most patients take up to a week off of work after breast augmentation. Let your employer know well in advance what dates you will not be in the office. Remember, you are not obligated to tell them you’re undergoing cosmetic breast surgery. You can simply say you need time off for personal reasons or because you are having a surgical procedure. Returning to work after breast surgery is usually possible within 7 days for desk-based roles.

Steps to Prepare for Surgery

• Fill prescriptions
• Request up to five days off work
• Lay out loose, comfortable clothing
• Arrange a ride to and from the hospital
• Shop for soft bras without an underwire (Dr Rizk’s team will organise the appropriate garment for your surgery)
• Stock up on healthy snacks and beverages
• Ask for help with chores, shopping and childcare in advance
• Stay entertained with low-impact activities like reading, crafting, puzzles and movies
• Prepare your recovery space to support a smooth breast implant recovery experience

Stages of Breast Augmentation Recovery

Here is what to expect in the first few days and weeks of breast augmentation recovery.

Immediately Post-Surgery

Expect to feel groggy when you wake up in the recovery room at the hospital. Everyone is different. Some patients cry after anaesthesia, some feel nauseous and others simply feel tired, sore and ‘out of it.’ A nurse will be present to oversee you until you feel well enough to go home.

Most patients spend 60 to 90 minutes in the recovery room. When you are ready to leave, someone will need to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours. This initial phase of recovery after breast augmentation focuses on supervision and rest to support early healing.

The First Week

Most patients say the first few days are the hardest. During this time, take it easy and rest. You may sleep more than usual as your body expends energy to heal.

While breast augmentation recovery isn’t associated with a high pain level, your breasts may feel sore, achy and tender. Discomfort tends to peak in the first few days and then gradually subside. Dr Rizk may prescribe pain medication or advise taking over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.

Bruising and swelling are prominent immediately after the surgery. The breasts typically appear compressed and firm. Remember, this is not your final result. Over time, the tissues will soften and relax, allowing the breasts to take on a more natural look and feel over the next several months. Be sure to stay hydrated and avoid salty foods to minimise breast augmentation swelling.

In this early stage of healing, avoid lifting objects weighing more than 5 kg. Light walking is encouraged to lower the risk of blood clots in the legs, but vigorous exercise is off-limits for at least four weeks. Always follow your surgeon’s advice regarding exercise after breast surgery.

Returning to work after breast augmentation is typically possible within a week if your role is not physically demanding. If your job involves lifting or other strenuous tasks, you may need additional time off to avoid compromising your recovery.

Driving After Surgery

Driving is restricted during the first 24 hours after general anaesthesia. Most patients feel comfortable enough to get behind the wheel within a few days after surgery. If you have young children that need to get to school, sports, or social activities, ask a family member or arrange a ride share with the other parents until you feel ready to drive.

Check with your surgeon before resuming driving to ensure it is safe and won’t interfere with your breast surgery recovery.

2–3 Weeks Post-Surgery

During weeks two and three, the discomfort tapers off. Bruising generally resolves in the first 14 to 21 days. The breasts still appear to ride high and tight as the tissues are still quite swollen at this stage. Watch for signs of infection and contact Dr Rizk’s office immediately if you notice anything unusual.

While you may be feeling a bit better, now is not the time to overexert yourself. You will need to refrain from heavy lifting and strenuous exercise. Walking and light cardio are okay, but you should avoid intense physical activity for at least four weeks or until cleared by your Sydney plastic surgeon, Dr Rizk. Maintaining this balance is an important part of a smooth breast augmentation post-op recovery.

4–6 Weeks Post-Surgery

You are starting to feel more like yourself. While there can be some lingering soreness, it tends to be minimal. Most patients can increase their activity level and perform light exercise at four to six weeks post-op and participate in full exercise at around two months. Make sure to wear a supportive bra during high-impact activity.

Your breasts will continue to drop and fluff as the swelling diminishes. These are not your final results, but you are seeing progress. This stage of healing after breast surgery marks a turning point as comfort and mobility continue to improve.

Final Results

At eight weeks after breast augmentation, most patients are back to all daily activities without restriction. You can start wearing a regular bra now. Bra shopping can be fun as there may be more styles that fit your figure. However, it can take six months to a year for your breasts to settle into their final position.

The shape of your breasts may continue to change, so only invest in a few good bras to get by for the time being. It helps to have a professional measure and fit you for a new brassiere. Your band size will likely stay the same, but your cup size may increase. Choosing the right bra is a helpful part of aftercare for breast implants.

At twelve months post-op, your breasts should feel softer to the touch and more natural in appearance. The breast augmentation scars also fade to a fine line in most cases.

The Recovery Process is Worth the End Result

Recovering from breast augmentation is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time to appreciate the final results. There can be some hurdles, both mental and physical, in the first few weeks of recovery. Trust the process and rest assured that most patients feel the temporary discomfort is well worth the final results. For those who follow their breast augmentation recovery timeline and postoperative instructions, long-term satisfaction is well within reach.

Book a Free Consultation

To book a FREE consultation, you can call us directly at 1300 512 345 or fill out our online form to schedule your appointment. If you have any questions or would like more information, you can also reach out to us via our contact page. We’re here to assist you and guide you through every step of the process.

To schedule, call 1300 512 345 or complete our online contact form. Our team is here to support you through every stage of your journey.

FAQs

How long does breast augmentation recovery take?

Most clients return to daily activities within one to two weeks, but full breast augmentation recovery can take several months. Final results typically become visible after the breasts have settled, which may take up to 6 to 12 months.

When can I drive after breast augmentation surgery?

Driving is generally safe 2 to 3 days after breast augmentation surgery once you’re no longer taking prescription pain medication and can move comfortably. Always follow your surgeon’s clearance before resuming driving.

What not to do after breast augmentation surgery?

Avoid lifting anything over 5 kg, sleeping on your stomach, smoking, or engaging in high-impact exercise. These activities can interfere with healing and affect your results.

Can I exercise after breast implant surgery?

Light walking is encouraged from day one, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 4 weeks after breast implant surgery. A gradual return to full workouts is typically safe around the 6 to 8-week mark.

When will swelling go down after breast augmentation?

Most swelling goes down within the first 2 to 3 weeks, but residual swelling may persist for several months. Wearing supportive bras and staying hydrated can help reduce swelling after breast augmentation.

How painful is breast augmentation recovery?

Discomfort is usually manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter medication. Most clients experience mild to moderate soreness in the first few days, which gradually improves.

What bras to wear after breast augmentation?

In the early stages of recovery, a soft, non-underwire surgical bra is recommended. After 6 to 8 weeks, you may transition to supportive sports bras or regular bras as advised by your surgeon.

When can I return to work after breast augmentation?

Most people with desk-based jobs return to work within 5 to 7 days. Physically demanding roles may require 2 or more weeks off to ensure a safe recovery.

Tips for a smooth breast augmentation recovery

Plan ahead by preparing your home, arranging support and following your surgeon’s instructions. Keep hydrated, avoid salty foods, wear a surgical bra and allow yourself time to rest and heal properly.

How to prepare your home for breast augmentation recovery

Set up your space with essentials like snacks, water, medications, chargers, loose clothing and entertainment. Place everything within easy reach and arrange for help with meals, pets and housework during the first few days.