You should be cautious drinking alcohol after a breast augmentation.
The general recommendation is to wait at least 24–48 hours after the surgery before consuming alcohol, but many surgeons advise avoiding it for at least two weeks to ensure the best possible outcome. In the first two days, your body is adjusting to the effects of anaesthesia, and the healing process has just begun. Additionally, you are likely taking painkillers or antibiotics, which can have dangerous interactions with alcohol.
How does alcohol affect the healing process?
Alcohol can negatively impact the body’s ability to heal properly, which is why many surgeons recommend avoiding alcohol for at least two weeks before and after a breast augmentation.
1. Dehydration
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it can lead to dehydration when consumed. Dehydration is particularly harmful during the healing process, as the body needs sufficient fluids to reduce swelling and allow tissues to recover.
2. Weakened immune system
Alcohol consumption can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections. After surgery, your body is already working hard to recover, and additional strain on the immune system can slow down the process.
3. Increased risk of bleeding
Alcohol has a blood-thinning effect, which can increase the risk of bleeding or bruising. In the first few weeks of recovery, the incisions are still healing; alcohol’s blood-thinning effects can delay healing or even cause complications such as haematoma.
4. Delayed healing process
Excessive alcohol consumption can interfere with the body’s natural collagen production, which is vital for wound healing and scar formation. As a result, the healing process may take longer, and the scars may even become more visible.
Alcohol and medication
One of the most important reasons to avoid alcohol after a breast augmentation is the interaction it can have with medications, particularly painkillers and antibiotics. It’s common to be prescribed both types of medication, but mixing them with alcohol can lead to serious side effects.
1. Increased risk of bleeding
Both alcohol and certain medications can thin the blood, increasing the likelihood of haematoma or heavy bleeding.
2. Stomach and gastrointestinal issues
Combining alcohol with painkillers, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or opioids, increases the risk of developing stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal problems. This can result in nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
3. Drowsiness and low blood pressure
Both alcohol and painkillers can cause drowsiness and lower blood pressure. When taken together, these effects can become intensified, leading to extreme fatigue, dizziness, and in some cases, dangerously low blood pressure. This can impair your ability to recover and pose a risk, especially when moving around or getting out of bed after surgery.
4. Breathing difficulties
Certain painkillers, especially opioids, can slow your breathing rate. Combined with alcohol, this effect can be magnified, potentially leading to severe breathing issues and reducing the amount of oxygen your body receives.
Given these risks, it’s best to wait until your surgeon gives you the green light before you start drinking alcohol, even after you’ve stopped taking painkillers.
Adoreal is with you throughout the healing process
Whether you need advice on recovery or tips to avoid complications after breast augmentation surgery, we are here to support you. You can get in touch with your surgeon and our partner clinics directly through the Adoreal app