Breast Augmentation Revision Recovery

Breast implant (augmentation) revision recovery is similar to primary breast augmentation recovery. As always, it is important to follow the advice of your surgeon to decrease the likelihood of major complications.

After Breast Implant Revision: Getting Back to Normal

In most cases, recovery time after breast implant revision is short. Most patients can return to their daily routine, with some moderate discomfort, in a few days. Total recovery time varies for each individual, depending on the specific nature of the procedure. Most women should wait at least six weeks before engaging in strenuous exercise.

Breast Implant Removal Recovery

Patients undergoing breast augmentation revision to remove their implant without replacing it typically experience only mild discomfort after the surgery, which can be controlled with over-the-counter medication. Swelling, bruising, and itching are possible after breast implant removal.

A lengthened recovery time can be expected if the breast implant removal was performed in conjunction with a breast lift. Altered sensation around the incision area, such as numbness or tingling is possible, but this should disappear over the following weeks and months.

Breast Implant Replacement Recovery

Women having breast implant revision surgery to replace their implants can expect their post-operative discomfort and recovery time to be similar to that of their primary breast augmentation. Discomfort, swelling, bruising, and itching should be expected, and as with primary breast augmentation, the extent and duration of discomfort depends largely on the size and placement of the implants.

If larger implants were placed, the skin around the breasts may feel tight. It may take several weeks or months for new implants to “settle” into their final position. Altered sensation, such as numbness or tingling, may be present around the incision site, but this should decrease over the following weeks or months.

A compression bra is usually worn for two or more weeks after surgery to prevent fluid accumulation, control swelling and keep the implants in place during the initial healing period. Patients are advised to take additional steps to control swelling and bruising which include applying a cold compress and sleeping with the torso slightly elevated.

Patients recovering from breast implant replacement surgery should refrain from moderate to strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least six weeks. Be sure to keep all of your follow-up appointments with your surgeon to avoid unnecessary complications.

Locate a Plastic Surgeon through DocShop

If you have decided to undergo secondary breast augmentation (implant revision), you need a surgeon with experience and one that you can trust. Find a surgeon near you through DocShop's physician directory.