More and more women are opting for cosmetic breast surgery to get more shapely breasts. Augmentation mammoplasty or surgery to enhance the size of the breasts can result in a more appealing appearance and does wonders to enhance a woman's self confidence. However, as with all surgeries, proper post-operative care is important. You should make sure to ask your surgeon what you should do to recover after breast augmentation.

Options for breast enhancement include saline and silicone implants. These implants are placed through incisions placed underneath the breasts, around the areola or through the armpit. Your breasts will be covered with gauze bandages following breast implant surgery. Drainage tubes may be placed at the incision for several to drain off any fluid that forms in the area.

The chest will feel heavy for several days following the surgery. Bruising, swelling and soreness are common. Cold compresses and ice packs can help reduce the swelling. The chest muscles will slowly stretch to accommodate the implants.

Care after Breast Augmentation Surgery

Post-operative care should focus on preventing risks and complications such as infection, internal bleeding, fluid accumulation, delayed wound healing, capsular contracture or implant collapse, and so on. Adhering to the following will make recovery easier:

• Medication: Take the prescribed antibiotics and pain and muscle relaxants
• Bathing: Shower only after the gauze dressing and bandages are removed (normally 24-48 hours after the surgery). Keep the area around stitches clean. A bath is advised only after the incisions have healed completely, which takes about a month
• Activity: Avoid arm lifting or strenuous chest/arm exercise for 4-6 weeks. Avoid activities that involve lifting and stretching. Do not carry heavy weights. Driving should also be avoided till pain medication is over and free arm movement is possible
• Wearing a bra: Do not wear an underwire bra until the implants have attained their proper position. Your surgeon will probably advise a support bra and also tell you when you can resume wearing a normal bra.
• Returning to work: Returning to work would, of course, depend on the extent of activity your job involves. You should be able to resume routine office work within 3-5 days if your implants are placed above the muscle and within 5-7 days if they are placed behind the muscle. The bottom line is return to work when you are comfortable.
• Bleeding and complications are rare. Call your doctor if there is any noticeable asymmetrical swelling, excessive pain, or increase in bleeding or bruising.

Recovery after cosmetic breast surgery varies among patient to patient and depends upon the implant technique and the site of placement. Following your surgeon's instruction carefully will help ensure quicker and easier healing. It is also important to remember that relaxation and rest are an important part of recovering after breast augmentation surgery.