So, you’ve booked your breast surgery, prepped the guest room for your recovery queen self, and mentally prepared for some post-op pampering. But wait! Before you dive headfirst into Netflix marathons and endless cups of tea, there are few breast essentials you’ll need to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery journey. From breast moisturizer to comfy bralettes, this is your one-stop shop for all the breast surgery must-haves. We’ll guide you through everything you need to feel supported and ready to heal like a champ.
What Does a Recovery Look Like?
The recovery process from breast surgery can look different from practice to practice. At Capizzi MD we recommend that you take it easy the first day or two, but you should feel comfortable enough to drive and return to work on days 2-3. In the first week, you will notice that normal activities will make you more tired than usual, this is to be expected as your body heals. Click the link for more information on the ins and outs of breast surgery recovery. To ease tightness, swelling, and assist with getting used to your new boobs, let’s continue on!
Easing Swelling and Discomfort
When we asked our patients if breast surgery was painful, the main answer is “Not really, it feels like engorgement or tightness more than anything.” To help with the swelling and tightness that you might feel, let’s chat about the following products:
- Pain medication: This is something that we offer to all patients, to make sure that the first couple of days are as comfortable as possible. Our patients note that they only need it the first night or two, before switching to OTC pain medications like Advil and Tylenol.
- Frozen peas: Sure, you can buy special ice packs on Amazon, but honestly, we prefer the vegetable section at your grocery store. When placed on the upper chest area they conform to the shape of your breasts to offer soothing for any tightness and swelling.
- Breast moisturizer: Hydration for the skin is also key to a smooth recovery. When breast implants are placed or skin is tightened, it causes tension in the skin that can feel like dry, cracked skin. Using an intense hydration product like ZO Hydrating Creme can soothe sensitivity and alleviate any flakiness, which is common during the first two weeks following surgery.
- Lymphatic Treatments: This lymphatic massage is an integral part of Capizzi MD’s recovery program and is included as part of every surgical package offered at the practice. The combined heat and vibration release fluid build-up and ease pressure on the breast skin.
Feel Supported & Secure
It is common to need some time to get used to the weight and feel of their new implants! At Capizzi MD, we do not recommend any sort of post-surgical bra or compression to the chest area. This allows the free flow of lymph fluid and the natural settling of the implants on the chest. The following are things we DO recommend to feel supported and secure as you get used to the new sensation of your breasts:
- Soft bralettes: Often we will see that patients just like the security of having a bra-like piece of clothing to support their new implants. We recommend using a soft and stretchy bralette, like the Coobie, to provide a little additional oomph without compression. One of these bralettes will be included in your pre-operative care kit for any surgery with Capizzi MD.
- Comfortable clothing: Healing after breast surgery can include some stiffness in your arms for the first couple of days. Ensuring you have some loose-fitting clothing that is easy to put on and take off is essential to having an easy recovery. Avoid anything tight or itchy as it can get uncomfortable or prove hard to remove. We love zip-ups and button-up hoodies for the first few days!
- Breast moisturizer: Hydration of the skin is so paramount to a good recovery that we include this item here too. Providing hydration to your skin will allow your skin tension to ease faster, which will support your implants and make you feel more comfortable.
Comfort Items for Breast Surgery Recovery
Okay, now that we have discussed the most important products for healing, it’s important to remember that you need to give your body a break during the first week to allow it to focus on healing from surgery. The easier you can make your first week, the better the following weeks will be. Here are some ideas for comfort items that can make you feel like the queen you are!
- Update your watchlist: Have you never gotten into Grey’s Anatomy? Now is the time! Get ready to watch all the movies and shows you never had any time for.
- Get ready to relax: Get your last workouts in and stock up on your favorite books and magazines, or coloring books and puzzles. A selection of activities can keep you from getting bored during the first few days. You will feel good! But don’t overdo it!
- Get some help: Arrange for help with household chores and errands after surgery. While you will be very able to empty the dishwasher or do laundry, outsource your groceries and dog walking to keep your chore list light.
- Prioritize fluids and healthy foods: Eating a healthy diet promotes healing and sends your immune system all the support it needs. Avoid over-processed foods and prioritize fluids to keep your system running at peak condition.
Equipping yourself with the right recovery essentials is like building a cozy nest for your body to heal in. From breast moisturizer to Netflix marathons, you can minimize discomfort, maximize relaxation, and focus on that beautiful transformation. Remember, recovery is just as important as the surgery itself, so pamper yourself, listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. With a little planning and these handy tips, you’ll be sailing towards a smooth and successful recovery in no time!
If you are curious about breast surgery, the best way to learn more is to request a consultation with our office. A member of our Patient Care Team will give you a call to go over pricing, scheduling, recovery, and get you scheduled for a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.