Breast Surgery Recovery

• Anaesthetic: General
• Surgery Time: 1–2 hours
• Hospital Stay: Usually overnight
• Recovery Time: Back to work in 5–7 days; full activity in 4–6 weeks
• Scarring: Hidden in natural breast creases or around the areola
• Implant Options: Silicone or saline, round or anatomical
• Longevity: Implants may need replacement after 10–15 years
• Follow-Up: Initial wound check at around 7 days

Breast surgery recovery is a vital part of the overall treatment journey. While the majority of patients recover well and are delighted with their results, it’s important to follow guidance closely and be aware of possible complications. This page outlines what to expect during recovery, the role of support garments, how to care for your wounds, and the range of potential risks associated with breast augmentation — from minor to more serious. Being informed and well-prepared is key to a safe and successful recovery.

Your breast augmentation will likely be performed under general anaesthesia, and most patients stay overnight in hospital. Pain and discomfort are common in the first few days and can be managed with prescribed medication. Many patients feel ready to resume everyday tasks within a few days, and return to work after about a week.

Take it easy for the first few days — you may need help around the house. Full return to strenuous activity typically occurs after 4–6 weeks.

• Keep wounds clean and as dry as possible
• Change absorbent dressings if they become wet
• You may dry wounds gently with a cool hairdryer after bathing
• Monitor for signs of infection: redness, discharge, flu-like symptoms

You may be advised to wear a support bra continuously for several weeks. Non-wired, firm-support bras (like shock-absorber sports bras) are ideal. In some cases, a different strategy may be used — such as pressure dressings or upside-down bras to support implant position.

Buy only a small number of bras initially, as size and shape may change during the healing process.

Some procedures involve temporary drains to reduce bruising and fluid build-up. These are usually removed before you return home. Not all patients will need them.

Commonly discussed risks include:

• Infection
• Scarring or delayed wound healing
• Asymmetry or size dissatisfaction
• Changes in nipple sensitivity or nerve injury
• Capsular contraction (scar tissue hardening around the implant)
• Implant-related complications (e.g. wrinkling, rotation, migration)
• Silicone leakage (non-cohesive implants)
• Difficulty interpreting mammograms

Serious but less common risks include:

• Blood clots (DVT or in the breast)
• Galactorrhoea (unexpected milk production)
• Implant extrusion or deflation
• Need for additional surgery (e.g. capsulectomy and implant replacement)

Explantation Some women may choose to have implants removed. This may be followed by a skin-tightening procedure, and in some cases, a second-stage operation is needed to refine the final result.

Most patients experience excellent outcomes with breast surgery, but every surgical procedure comes with potential risks. Knowing what to expect will help you feel more in control and allow you to spot any early signs of complications.