The information on this page provides a condensed overview of key preparation and recovery guidelines for breast augmentation surgery. For complete instructions—including specific timelines, medication details, and aftercare protocols—please download the full Pre-Operative and Post-Operative instruction documents below. These serve as your primary reference for a safe and successful recovery.
Fasting: No food or drink (including water, mints, or gum) for 8 hours prior to surgery.
Transportation: A responsible adult must drive you home and stay with you for at least 1–2 days. Rideshare services are not permitted.
Medications: Discontinue aspirin, NSAIDs, and blood-thinning supplements as directed (typically 2–3 weeks prior).
Lifestyle Adjustments: Cease smoking and limit alcohol intake in the weeks leading up to surgery. These steps reduce complications and support healing.
Day of Surgery: Shower the night before or morning of surgery. Do not apply lotions, deodorant, or makeup. Wear loose, front-opening clothing.
Pain Management: Use Tylenol (acetaminophen) as directed. Narcotic pain medication and anti-nausea medication may be prescribed.
Antibiotics: Complete the full course, even if symptoms improve.
Mobility: Begin gentle walking the day after surgery to promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
Driving: Do not drive while taking narcotic pain medication. Most patients can resume driving safely after 1–2 weeks once they are off narcotics, have good arm mobility, and feel safe controlling the car. Avoid long drives or manual-shift driving for about 3 weeks.
Lifting & Activity: Avoid lifting over 5 lbs, vigorous activity, or overhead arm movements for at least 4–6 weeks.
Sleep Position: Sleep on your back with your upper body slightly elevated for at least one week post-surgery.
Showering: You may resume showering the day after surgery unless otherwise instructed. Do not submerge the incision in water until fully healed.
Support Garments: A compression bra or non-underwire bralette is typically required for the first 4–6 weeks.
Sensory Changes: Temporary numbness or sensitivity is common and typically resolves over time.
Implant Settling: Implants will initially appear high and firm; final positioning may take several months.
For full details on medication guidelines, wound care, return to activity, and recovery milestones, please download both documents below:
Download Breast Augmentation Pre & Post-Operative Instructions (PDF)
Download Breast Implant Massage Instructions (PDF)
Download Five Key Exercise Guidelines After a Breast Augmentation (PDF)
Download Pre- and Post-Operative Instructions: Surgery with General Anesthesia (PDF)
You may consider the following items to support your recovery:
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