There is no doubt that the firm and perky breasts that most women desire can change due to different life events such as pregnancy, child birth, old age, breastfeeding, and weight loss and gain. If your sagging breasts are decreasing your confidence every day, you can opt for a breast lift procedure that will help you achieve the look you desire.
However, before getting the procedure, we suggest you make yourself aware of all that follows. Don’t worry; what follows is not scary at all. However, to familiarize you with the procedure and prepare you for it, we have compiled this guide so you know exactly what can you expect after a breast lift.
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What Is a Breast Lift?
Also called mastopexy, it is a surgical procedure performed by a plastic surgeon to change your breasts’ shape. Excess skin is removed during the procedure, and your breast tissue is reshaped to raise your breasts.
However, a breast lift does not significantly change your breasts’ size unless done in combination with a breast reduction or augmentation surgery. Women with saggy breasts or nipples that point downwards mostly choose to opt for a breast lift in Chicago. However, the procedure can be performed on any healthy person.
What Can You Expect After a Breast Lift?
For 2 to 3 days after surgery, most women experience light to moderate pain. Your doctor will give you prescription medication to manage this pain. We do not recommend taking non-steroidal, over-the-counter, anti-inflammatory drugs, such as naproxen or ibuprofen, as they may cause bleeding.
Some women also experience nausea that stems from the anesthesia used during the procedure. However, it dials down within a few hours. Any drainage pipes and bandages will also be removed by your nurse or surgeons within 3 days. We recommend that you continue to use a surgical bra and compression bandages to protect your incision sites. By the 3rd or 4th day, you will be able to shower.
One week after your surgery, your pain will significantly decline. Unfortunately, mild swelling and bruising may continue to persist. You will be allowed to return to work and perform light activities, such as walking. You should, however, avoid strenuous movements, such as bending and lifting heavy objects.
Two weeks after you have opted for breast lift in Chicago, you will begin to feel normal and be able to perform daily activities without experiencing any pain. However, it would help if you still avoided vigorous exercises. Your incisions typically take around 2 weeks to heal.
After 4 weeks, you will be healed enough to resume your regular exercise routine, but you should still avoid exercises and sports that put pressure on the chest, such as tennis.
Your recovery process will be completed 6 weeks after surgery. Your breasts will no longer be bruised or swollen. You will be able to exercise without restraints, sleep on your abdomen and wear an underwire bra.
Tips for Recovering from a Breast Lift Surgery
- Follow all care instructions provided by your doctor or nurse.
- Take pain medication and antibiotics as prescribed by your surgeon.
- Make sure you attend all your scheduled follow-ups.
- Refrain from showering or bathing until cleared by your doctor or nurse. • Wear compression garments and surgical bras as recommended.
- Take 1 to 2 weeks off from work to recover.
- Get plenty of rest and sleep, and eat healthy foods after your breast lift in Chicago.
- Avoid touching or removing bandages from your surgical cuts, as this can reopen your wounds.
- Wear loosely fitted clothes, such as button-downs, that do not require any arm lifting. • Avoid sleeping on your belly or side for 6 weeks following your procedure.
Get Your Breast Lift from Chicago’s Top-Rated Plastic Surgeon
The Michael Horn Center for Cosmetic Surgery is a top-rated center for breast lifts in Chicago, where a renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Michael A. Horn, M.D., provides state of-the-art facilities for superior results. Dr. Horn works with every patient to determine what is best for them. To make your appointment or book your consultation with him, call on (312) 202-9000 today.
