You’ve decided to have a breast augmentation, and your surgery date is quickly approaching. But you may still have some questions about what you can do to prepare for the recovery process at home. Remembering every detail can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve prepared this helpful and practical guide outlining everything you can do in advance to ensure a smooth and successful recovery. When it comes to post-operative care, it’s important to understand that instructions will vary from surgeon to surgeon. We recommend following the advice and direction of your specific surgeon. But these helpful tips and checklists can be an informative guide to help you get started!
Housekeeping
Good breast augmentation post-op care can mean the difference between a quick return to your normal routine and one that has unexpected complications. To achieve the beautiful results you desire, it’s important that you get plenty of rest and avoid any strenuous activity. This will require you to make changes to your normal routine and schedule. If you are employed, you must arrange at least one week off work, or more depending on the type of work you do. We also recommend arranging help from a trusted caregiver who is willing and able to assist you while you recover. This general housekeeping checklist is a great place to start so your recovery process can begin as soon as you arrive home.
• Tidy your home and wash your bedding the night before surgery.
• Put away any laundry or clutter so it is out of mind and there’s no hazard of tripping.
• Arrange pet or child care if necessary.
• Stock your fridge with all your favourite nutritious foods.
• Meal prep in advance so you and your caregiver don’t have to worry about what’s for dinner.
• Arrange a ride to and from surgery. You may have to fill some prescriptions immediately after surgery, so ensure that your driver can assist you.
• Move everything you need like plates, glasses, snacks, and toiletries to low cabinets or counters under shoulder height. Stretching, reaching, bending, and lifting can cause complications and may compromise your incision.
• Wash your hair the night before your surgery. Braids are a great way to keep your hair out of your face and neat on the days when you’re unable to shower.
Supplies
Many women who undergo breast augmentation surgery find that everything goes much smoother when they’ve stocked up on these essential items. Take some time to grocery shop before your surgery so you too can benefit from a faster, safer, and more comfortable recovery. Be sure to include these must-have items on your pre-op shopping list.
• Gatorade or any other one of your favourite electrolyte drinks. Consuming electrolytes and staying hydrated is a great way to support your body during recovery.
• Easy to grab, nutrient-dense snacks and protein bars. We recommend easy-to-digest, fibre-rich snacks like applesauce, yogurt, fruits, and vegetables.
• Constipation is a common side effect of anesthesia. Fibre supplements and probiotics are important to have on hand.
• Over-the-counter painkillers like Tylenol Extra Strength and ibuprofen are key for when you’re ready to transition off prescription painkillers.
• You won’t be able to shower for the first few days post-surgery, so stocking up on Baby Wipes can help keep you feeling fresh.
• After surgery, your first couple of showers may be challenging, and falling is a risk. To avoid that, we recommend purchasing a shower stool or bench to ensure that you have somewhere to sit or rest in case you feel tired or lightheaded.
• Ice packs to help with swelling and discomfort.
Clothing
Your breast augmentation post-op care will include instructions about bathing, handling wound dressings, and wearing surgical bras. You might have to say goodbye to some of your favourite pieces of clothing in the first few days or weeks after surgery. But with this checklist, you’ll find that you have a much easier time getting dressed and feeling comfortable post-op. Here are a few items of clothing and accessories you can arrange in advance.
• Some surgeons provide post-surgical bras, and some don’t. You can find many different kinds of zip-front sports bras on Amazon if you search “post-surgery bra.”
• Front closing pyjamas and tops can make putting on and taking off clothes easier while minimizing pain and discomfort.
• We recommend having sufficient back and neck support for sleeping seated/semi-seated as you won’t be able to sleep lying flat for some time after your surgery, so make sure you have at least two regular pillows. Wedge pillows or neck pillows can significantly increase your comfort and quality of sleep, which is an important aspect of your healing!
• Sticky bottom socks or slippers are especially important in the hours after your anesthetic is wearing off. You may be feeling unsteady on your feet, and falling is a concern. Having non-slip footwear can help reduce this risk, especially if you have a lot of wood or tile floors.
Bedside
The first evening home after your surgery should be quiet and relaxing. We recommend stocking your bedside table with all the essentials to ensure everything is within arm’s reach when you need it! Relaxation and optimal comfort in the early stages of your recovery are crucial to achieving the best results. We encourage patients to stock up on these items to achieve just that!
• Lip balm and moisturizer to help keep your skin and lips hydrated.
• A water bottle with a straw to keep you hydrated all day long.
• Stock up on entertainment supplies, including books, computer or tablet, magazines, phone, and all necessary chargers.
• A heating pad can help alleviate back discomfort after sleeping semi-propped-up.
• Prescription medications.
• Snacks.
If you’re feeling a little anxious as you prepare for your breast augmentation surgery, we want you to know that it’s completely normal! Our patients find that preparing for their procedure ahead of time can help alleviate their anxiety. If you have any additional questions about your post-operative care for your breast augmentation surgery with Clinic 805, please reach out to us by phone or by email – we are always happy to help!
Ready to get prepped? Click HERE to download your free PDF checklist and take this guide with you on the go!
