Breast lift recovery timeline – week by week

Professor Ash Mosahebi

Recovering from a breast lift surgery can take a few weeks, and the time required for a full recovery varies from person to person, with the most healing happening within the first month.

Your lifestyle, surgical approach, and individual response to the procedure are some of the factors that determine your recovery time. But don't worry, you can get through your breast lift recovery like a breeze by following some simple guidelines:

Timeline – week by week

Week 1

Immediate post-operative care is key. You can expect to experience discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which are all normal parts of the healing process. Pain management, as prescribed by your surgeon, will help alleviate discomfort. It is essential to rest and avoid any strenuous activity during this time.

Week 2

As you enter the second week, you'll notice a decrease in swelling and bruising. Follow-up visits to your surgeon are critical to ensure the incisions are healing properly. You should continue to avoid lifting and rigorous activities, but gentle walks can promote blood flow.

Week 3

By the third week, you'll experience greater mobility and reduced discomfort. If your surgeon used non-dissolvable stitches, they might be removed during this time. You can start to engage more in daily routines but continue to wear any supportive garments as directed.

Week 4 and beyond

At four weeks, many patients feel ready to return to work and normal daily activities, with caution. The next few months will involve the body settling into its new shape. It's not uncommon for full healing to take six months to a year, with potential for minor shape adjustments along the way.

Dos and don’ts during recovery

Dos:

  • Adhere strictly to your surgeon’s post-operative instructions.
  • Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and proteins to aid healing.
  • Wear the surgical bra or compression garments as advised to support the new breast contour.
  • Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for a professional assessment of your recovery progress.

Don'ts:

  • Do not smoke or consume alcohol for at least four weeks after the procedure, as they can delay the healing process.
  • Avoid direct sunlight on incision lines for at least eight weeks to prevent the darkening of scars.
  • Refrain from heavy lifting or high-impact exercises until your surgeon gives the go-ahead.
  • Do not rush your body's healing process; give yourself the time to recover fully.

How long does it take to fully heal?

Most of the breast lift recovery takes place within the first few weeks, with noticeable improvements by the end of the first month. Note that the internal healing process, including the settling of the breasts into their new shape, can take several months to a year. Patience, along with diligent care, is key to achieving the best possible outcome from your mastopexy .

Is recovery painful?

Most patients experience manageable discomfort during recovery, especially with prescribed pain relief. The first week post-surgery is typically the most uncomfortable, with pain decreasing steadily afterward.

Smooth and supported recovery with Adoreal

Adoreal's platform empowers you with tools to track your recovery, direct communication with your healthcare team, and long-term support. By choosing Adoreal, you choose a platform committed to your care, comfort, and confidence in the transformative journey of a breast lift.

Elevate your care with Adoreal's network of trusted clinics, dedicated to your comfort and results every step of the way.

Discover your ideal clinic here

*The content provided here is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for advice on medical procedures and any health-related concerns.