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Breast Lift - Surgical Recovery
Length of surgery
Operation takes 90-180 minutes depending upon technique and size of breast.
Nights in hospital
Usually one night, occasionally two.
Dressings
You will wake up with dressings on the wounds and usually elastoplast support tape on the breasts (say if allergic to elastoplast). These dressings will be removed after 2-3 days for lighter dressings. They are to be kept dry during that period. You will then return to have new dressings as required after 7-10 days. Therefore no dressings are needed after two weeks providing all is healed well. I request that patients do apply micropore (surgical) or silicone tape to the wounds for six weeks as this may prevent early stretching of the scars.
Drains
The use of a small surgical drain into the breast is common to remove any unwanted blood/fluid. They are not always used for a simple Mastopexy. Usually have drains for 24 hours. Occasionally will be kept in for 48 hours.
Bra’s
You should bring a soft / sports bra. You will need two as one for the wash. This will be the same bra size as before surgery unless an augmentation/enlargement is also done. The bra should still be shaped and therefore supporting and not flattening the breast. An underwired bra can be worn after 8 weeks. Ensure this is properly fitted (this is essential).
Time off work
Allow 2 weeks. People vary in recovery. Younger patients tend to get more discomfort with this surgery. Most patients are very mobile and comfortable at one week and although feel they could return to work it is preferable to wait. If you have a highly active job you may require longer.
Time to exercise
Walking a distance at 5-7 days, swimming by 10-14 days (if fully healed). Strenuous exercise (aerobics etc) should be avoided for 6 weeks.
Post operative instructions
Day 1-4 You should be taking it very easy! You should not be looking after very young children or doing housework without help.
Day 5-14 Can start getting more exercise including longer walking, shopping etc. You will be quite pain free by the end of this period. If all wounds are fine at day 10 you are unlikely to ‘damage’ anything by increasing your activity, so build up activity as you feel fit.
Week 3-6 Should be back to work and doing anything you wish by 6 weeks.
Driving
Although you may feel able to drive by 7-10 days you need to be completely free of pain and restriction to be covered by your insurance. This may be in your second to third week.
Follow up
Wound check and dressing change at day 2-3 and then at day 7-10 post surgery. Then see Mr McCulley at 3 months. NB There are no charges for any follow up appointment relating to your surgery.
