All surgical procedures are strenuous on the body and it takes time to recover fully. Probably two to three weeks is the most realistic time frame before a body can fully resume all the usual activities.

The goal of postoperative care is to prevent complications such as infection, to promote healing of the surgical incision, and to return the patient to a state of health and fullness of life as quickly as possible.

Following any form of surgery it is normal to feel tired and sore for 2-3 days. It is also normal to feel the breast implants are not part of your body and takes 2-3 weeks for your breast implants to soften and feel more natural and part of the new you.

The recovery time your body will take, if you experience pain and to what extent depends to some extent on the individual and what kind of surgery you had undergone. During the recovery period doctors will prescribe pain management medicines to reduce pain and any discomfort. A few patients may experience nausea symptoms and/or vomiting after a breast implant surgery which makes it difficult to consume food but eating well after surgery is important for a quick and comprehensive recovery so we have some advice on how to manage a quality diet to speed up your successful recovery.

Patients who have undergone surgery should take light foods such as soups, fresh vegetables and fruits which are easy to digest, good for you and easy to digest. Try to incorporate as many fresh vegetables in your meal as possible as they are rich sources of fiber helping with upset stomachs, usually a common side effect after surgeries while providing you with a good source of easy digested nutrients and vitamins greatly aiding the healing process.

Lean protein is a necessary component of the recovery process, helping the body reconstruct skin tissues and cells damaged during surgery. Lean protein also helps combat weakness and lethargy. Chicken and fresh fish are good sources of lean protein but it is advisable not to have them fired. Yogurt helps replenish good bacteria assisting the body to absorb nutrients. Fresh fruit juices are an excellent source of nutrients and drink at least 2 liters of water each day for two weeks to replace body water lost during surgeries. Reduce the quantity of your meals but increase their frequency. Take more frequent meals with fewer calories. It is recommended to avoid high fat foods and all dairy products for at least two weeks and of course, stay away from alcohol and smoking.

Daily physical activities will speed the time and quality of your recovery following surgery and build confidence.  It is preferable to resume low level exertion activities the night of surgery.  This includes slowly, gently raising your arms above your head, brushing your hair and teeth. Begin walking at an easy pace, 5 minutes 3 times a day the first 3 days after surgery. No lifting over 10 pounds for the 1st week. Let the porter manage your suitcase and take a friend to carry the shopping.

That being said, if you are feeling good and full of energy, please, remember you just had a surgical procedure and it is wise to take things slowly and get lots of rest. Watching movies/ television, reading and limited excursions for shopping are all fine but, avoid cleaning your house, working out or going out all day for the first 3 days, as you will tend to wear yourself out and feel the negative effects the next day. Avoid any activity that causes pain or discomfort.

You may shower 24 hrs. after surgery.  When showering remove the gauze dressing but leave any adhesive strips in place. Let the water gently rinse the breast area and pat dry. Work may be resumed in 2-5 days (depending on how you feel).

Resume driving when you are no longer taking narcotic pain medication and feel unrestricted by pain.

You do not need to wear a bra or may wear a loose fitting comfortable bra if desired.  Do not wear a push up bra for 6weeks.

No aerobic activities i.e. aerobics, stationary bike, elliptical trainer or treadmill for 3 weeks and avoid direct sunlight to the incision for 1 year. Use a sunscreen with zinc- oxide with SPF20 or greater.

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