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Recovering from breast surgery isn’t always straightforward—but knowing what to expect can make a difference. Whether you've undergone augmentation, reduction or reconstruction in Singapore, each procedure places certain demands on your body.
This guide offers clear, practical advice for the early days and weeks after surgery—so you’re better prepared to manage any discomfort, monitor your healing and avoid setbacks.
Preparing for Recovery
A successful recovery starts even before your breast surgery. By preparing your environment ahead of time, you can reduce stress and ensure you are comfortable for the weeks ahead.
Setting Up a Comfortable Recovery Space
Before your breast surgery, set up a dedicated recovery area at home. Select a quiet, clean and accessible space where you can rest undisturbed. Ideally, it should have:
- A supportive recliner or a bed with extra pillows for elevation
- A nearby table or tray for essentials like medication, water, and snacks
- Items like phone chargers, tissue, reading materials, and remote controls within arm’s reach
Sleeping with your upper body elevated (using pillows or a wedge) helps reduce swelling and supports healing in the early days.
Gathering Necessary Supplies
Stock up on the essentials ahead of time so you can focus on healing, not errands. This will also ensure a smoother transition from hospital to home. Useful items include:
- Prescribed medications (pain relief, antibiotics, etc.)
- Loose, front-opening tops or post-surgical bras
- Cold packs to reduce swelling (if advised by your surgeon)
- Gauze, wound dressings, and gentle cleansers for incision care
Understanding Post-Surgery Instructions
Before discharge, your surgeon or nurse will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions. Knowing what to expect can ease any anxiety you have and prevent complications. Make sure you:
- Understand how to care for your incisions
- Know what medications to take and when
- Are clear on physical restrictions (e.g. no heavy lifting)
- Have emergency contact numbers on hand
Immediate Post-Surgery Care
The first few days after breast surgery are usually the most uncomfortable. It’s a time for rest and patience with your body.
Managing Pain and Discomfort
It’s normal to experience soreness, tightness, or pressure around your chest and underarms after breast surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medications to help manage this initial discomfort. Take them as directed, especially in the first 48–72 hours.
Tips for comfort:
- Apply cold compresses (only if recommended)
- Wear your post-surgical bra as instructed to reduce swelling and support healing
- Stay on top of your pain medication schedule rather than waiting for pain to increase
Caring for Surgical Incisions
Follow your surgeon’s instructions for cleaning and caring for your incision sites. Keep them dry and protected, especially during showers. Do not apply creams or ointments unless prescribed.
Over time, your scars will fade. You can ask your surgeon about silicone gels or scar massage techniques to help minimise their appearance once you have healed sufficiently.
Importance of Rest
Rest is a key component of healing. For the first week, avoid strenuous activity, including lifting, bending, and reaching. This gives your body the chance to recover without strain. Take naps, as needed.
Long-Term Recovery Tips
As the initial discomfort fades, you’ll gradually ease into your regular routine. However, full healing can take several weeks, depending on the type of breast surgery and your body’s response to it.
Gradual Return to Activities
Ease back into your daily tasks but do not overexert yourself. Your surgeon will advise when it's safe to:
- Resume light walking (often encouraged after a few days to promote circulation)
- Drive again (usually once you’re off strong pain medications)
- Return to work (typically 1–2 weeks for office jobs, longer for physical roles)
- Restart exercise or lifting (often after 4–6 weeks)
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle
Your body needs nutrients to rebuild and heal. Focus on healthy eating, staying hydrated and getting quality sleep. Consistent and gentle movement, like walking, supports blood circulation and helps prevent blood clots.
Follow-Up Appointments
Attending your follow-up appointments is a crucial part of healing. These visits ensure your physical recovery is progressing well.
Your surgeon may:
- Monitor how your incisions are healing
- Remove sutures or drains if needed
- Check for signs of infection or complications
- Discuss your final results and answer questions
When to Contact Your Surgeon
While mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising are common, unexpected symptoms can sometimes arise. Call your clinic immediately if you notice:
- A high fever or chills
- Sudden swelling or unusual firmness in one breast
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop
- Increased redness, warmth, or pus around the incisions
Get Breast Surgery in Singapore
While there might be some discomfort while recovering from a breast surgery, knowing what to expect and having the right support can make all the difference.
If you're considering breast surgery in Singapore, Polaris Plastic Surgery will support you from the consultation stage all the way to aftercare. Whether you're undergoing breast augmentation, reduction, or reconstruction, we provide:
- A personalised recovery roadmap tailored to your procedure and lifestyle
- Ongoing post-op support to promote healing and minimise complications
- A private, respectful environment where your concerns are always heard
Schedule your consultation at Polaris Plastic Surgery today.
