As with any surgery, recovery after transaxillary breast augmentation is a gradual process. Overall, recovery from the transaxillary method is not difficult. There is typically swelling and bruising that develop, it most cases to a minor extent. The implants may temporarily seem high. Bruising and swelling mostly subside over 2 weeks. The breast implants will settle into their natural position over 6 to 12 weeks. Depending upon your occupation, anticipate at least a 4-5 day recovery period prior to returning to work or light activity. You may resume non-impact lower body exercise in 1-2 weeks and impact exercise in approximately 4 weeks. Upper body exercise can be resumed 6 weeks after surgery.
Details of the Recovery after Transaxillary Breast Augmentation
Dr. Shuster’s approach to a smooth and easy recovery is preparation. In our practice this begins when the surgery is scheduled. Each patient receives a detailed set of instructions on how to plan for their procedure, both before and after. We make sure that our patients are well informed, have thought through and are ready for the postoperative period. Again, Dr. Shuster believes that the best way to have the easiest recovery is to be well informed and prepared.
Some of the essential components of his approach to recovery include maintaining a low sodium diet after breast augmentation. This is the most important thing a patient can do to minimize their swelling as sodium leads to fluid retention. By minimizing the amount of swelling that develops, patients will have less edema to resolve, feel better and look better. Patients can plan which low sodium meals or snacks they like and have them prepared and ready prior to surgery. Another consideration is to prepare their personal “Recovery Station”. This is the area at home where patients will be spending most of their time for several days following the procedure, usually their bed. Prior to surgery, anticipate everything you may want within reach and arrange it prior to the procedure. Popular items are bottled water with the caps loosened, prescriptions, lip balm, phone charger, and extra pillows.
The first night after a transaxillary breast augmentation, patients should be prepared to sleep on their backs with their back elevated on several pillows. Dr. Shuster places long lasting local anesthetics around the breast implants at the time of surgery. This will last long into the evening.
As this wears off patients usually develop more discomfort. Prescriptions for both pain medications and muscle relaxants are provided and should be filled prior to the day of surgery. Patients should limit heavy lifting and reaching with their arms but may use them enough to take care of themselves. Because there is an incision in the armpit, deodorant should not be used after transaxillary breast augmentation until Dr. Shuster advises.
Dr. Shuster personally keeps a close eye on his patients during their recovery. He will see each of his breast augmentation patients personally the day after surgery. This visit is one of the most exciting times for patients as he will remove the post-surgical bra and they can see their new breasts for the first time. While bruising and swelling are normal, the breasts will already look terrific. Plan on having someone bring you to this postoperative appointment.
Following transaxillary breast augmentation, patients should plan on staying home and taking it easy for 4 to 5 days. Most patients can resume light activity at this time. Depending on peoples’ occupation, they can usually return to work as early as 5 days after surgery. For others who have more active jobs this maybe 7 to 10 days or longer. Light exercise can be resumed as early as 7 days after surgery. Dr. Shuster particularly likes a recumbent, stationary bike for patients who are eager to return to the gym. It allows women to get in some cardio while not creating any stress on the upper body. Exercise can advance gradually over 4 to 6 weeks with patients having no limits on exercise at that time.
Dr. Shuster uses a specific bra for his patients with transaxillary placement of breast implants. Initially, the breast implants will sit high on the chest. Over the course of several weeks the implants will settle into position as the swelling resolves and the tissues stretch. During this recovery period, Dr. Shuster advises his patients not to wear under wire, padded, or push-up bras as these may prevent the implants from settling well.
Of course for each of his transaxillary patients Dr. Shuster will guide them as to what is most appropriate for their individual case during postoperative visits. For patients who live out of the area and travel for their surgery, Dr. Shuster will schedule on-line video follow up appointments to monitor their progress.