Days 1-3: The First Days

What to Expect

The first 72 hours are the most challenging part of your recovery. You'll feel tired, sore, and restricted in your movements. This is completely normal and temporary.

Common Symptoms (All Normal)

• Pain and tightness across your chest - this will improve significantly over the next few days
• Swelling and bruising - expect your breasts to look larger and bruised initially
• Fatigue - your body is healing, and anaesthesia takes time to leave your system
• Nausea from pain medication or anaesthesia - this usually resolves within 24-48 hours
• Limited arm mobility - your chest muscles are tight and sore
• Difficulty sleeping - you'll need to sleep elevated on your back

Pain Management

You will have been prescribed pain medication. Use it proactively in these first few days - don't wait until pain becomes severe.

Medication Schedule

• Take pain relief regularly for the first 48 hours, even if you feel okay. It's easier to prevent pain than to treat it.
• Set alarms so you don't miss doses, especially overnight.
• Take with food if instructed - many pain medications can cause nausea on an empty stomach.
• Anti-nausea medication should be available if you need it - don't hesitate to use it.

Managing Your Drains

Most patients will have surgical drains in place to remove excess fluid and blood. They typically stay in for 3-5 days.

Drain Care

• Empty drains 2-3 times daily or when they're half full.
• Measure and record the output - your surgeon needs this information to determine when to remove them.
• Keep drains secure - pin them to your bra or clothing, or use a lanyard to prevent tugging.
• Note the colour - it will be dark red initially, gradually becoming lighter and more straw-coloured.
• Keep the insertion sites clean and dry - your team will give you specific instructions.

Living with Drains

Drains are uncomfortable and awkward, but temporary. Here's how to make them more manageable:

• Wear loose shirts that button up the front
• Use a small crossbody bag or lanyard to carry drain bulbs
• Pin drains securely to prevent them catching or pulling
• Shower carefully if allowed - many patients find it easier to wait until drains are removed

Sleeping Position

You must sleep on your back, elevated at about 30-45 degrees for the first few weeks. This reduces swelling and prevents pressure on your incisions.

Tips for Comfortable Sleep

• Use a wedge pillow or stack regular pillows behind you
• Place pillows under your knees to take pressure off your lower back
• Use a neck pillow to prevent your head tilting
• Set up everything you need within arm's reach - water, phone, medication

Activity Restrictions

Your only job right now is to rest and heal. Avoid these activities:

• No lifting anything heavier than a kettle (approximately 2kg/5lbs)
• No raising your arms above shoulder height
• No driving while on pain medication or if you can't perform an emergency stop comfortably
• No strenuous activity - stick to short, gentle walks around your home
• No housework - let others help you

What You Can Do

• Gentle walking around your home to prevent blood clots
• Light reading or watching TV
• Eating, drinking, and using the bathroom (with assistance if needed)

Washing and Personal Care

Most patients can shower after 48 hours, but check your specific instructions. If you have drains, many prefer to wait until they're removed.

When You Can Shower

• Use lukewarm water, not hot
• Let water run over you gently - don't scrub the surgical sites
• Pat dry carefully with a clean towel
• Have someone nearby in case you feel dizzy

If You're Not Showering Yet

• Use dry shampoo for your hair
• Wash your face and body with a damp cloth, avoiding surgical sites
• Change into fresh clothing daily

Your Surgical Bra

You'll be wearing a surgical bra day and night for the next 6 weeks. It may feel tight - this is intentional. The compression supports healing and minimises swelling.

• Don't remove it except to shower (if allowed) and change to a clean one
• Have 2-3 bras so you can rotate them for washing
• It should feel snug but not painful - if it's causing severe pain or numbness, contact your surgeon

Emotional Wellbeing

It's very common to feel emotional, overwhelmed, or even regretful in these first few days. This is normal and temporary.

• Your hormones are adjusting after surgery
• You're in pain and uncomfortable
• Your breasts look swollen and bruised - not like the final result
• You may feel vulnerable and dependent on others

These feelings usually pass as you start to feel better physically. Be kind to yourself.