Keeping Abreast: Recovery After Breast Augmentation in Los Angeles
For centuries, humans have modified their appearances through paint, tattoos, piercings, scarring, and branding to achieve beauty or prominence. Advances in the health sciences have made body enhancements much safer and more sophisticated. Breast augmentation is the most sought after plastic surgery procedure. For those considering the breast augmentation, here are some helpful tips to speed your recovery after a breast augmentation in Los Angeles.
The First 24 Hours
Patients may be allowed to go home on the same day of the procedure or after spending a night at the hospital. Arrange for someone to pick you up from the hospital and to stay with you for the first few post-operative days. Avoid excessive use of the arms at this time to minimize irritation and bleeding. Doctors also recommended taking about two weeks off of work to fully recover. In addition, doctors recommend wearing a tight-fitting sports or post-surgical bra 24-hours-a-day for up to three months after surgery.
Things to Avoid
There are a few things that patients should refrain from after surgery. Strenuous activities like exercise and heavy lifting must be avoided for four weeks. Patients should not sleep face down for a month and should keep the wound dry during the first week of recovery. In addition, patients should also forgo driving until any discomfort subsides.
Pain Management
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can be taken to relieve some of the discomfort. However, patients who have history of stomach, kidney, or liver problems should avoid ibuprofen. Patients should bear in mind that recovery from surgery cannot be completely pain-free. Medication should only be taken to reduce pain to a tolerable level.
When to Get Help
Any type of surgery, elective or otherwise, comes with risks. Patients must contact a reliable plastic surgeon like Dr. Jeffrey D. Hoefflin if they experience unexpected symptoms or severe pain. The breasts should be regularly checked for signs of deflation, lumps, and smelly or colored discharge. Swelling, an intense burning sensation, and redness are all warning signs that medical attention is needed.
Whether it’s a breast augmentation surgery or a simple procedure such as getting Juvederm in Beverly Hills, the key to a fast recovery is faithfully following the doctor’s instructions. By following the doctor’s advice, patients should experience as little discomfort as possible.