Recovery After Breast Lift Surgery

Recovery from a breast lift usually takes several weeks, although most women go back to work in a week. Recovery depends greatly on how extensive the lift was and whether a breast augmentation was done at the same time.

For the first few days after your surgery, your breasts will be sore, bruised, and swollen. Most of the swelling and bruising will slowly subside over the first few days, but it will take several weeks to a few months for all the swelling to go away. You will need to wear a special supportive surgical bra or a special pressure bandage day and night until your surgeon tells you that you can switch to a regular bra. He or she may tell you to wear a bra at night for a while.

Sutures will be removed between 5 and 10 days after your surgery. Your surgeon may advise you to put silicone sheeting or paper surgical tape over your incisions as they heal to help prevent excessive scarring.

Your surgeon will tell you when you can return to work and when you can resume your usual activities. You will also be told not to lift heavy objects (over 10 pounds or so) for a few weeks. Usually, you will be told to avoid strenuous exercise and sports for at least a month after your surgery. You may need to avoid contact sports where you might be hit in the chest for longer than that.

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