When you schedule your breast augmentation, chances are you’re already dreaming about returning to your favorite activities with your enhanced figure, especially hitting the beach and swimming. However, you’ll need to give your body plenty of time to recover before you start enjoying the waves or soaking in the sun again.
At Northwest Face & Body, we know that you want to feel confident and comfortable as quickly as possible after your breast augmentation. To help you get a better idea of when you can enjoy the water again, let’s look at a typical recovery timeline for resuming swimming after breast augmentation, along with valuable recovery tips to help you heal.
What To Expect During Your Breast Augmentation Recovery: A Timeline
Because every person is unique, your body will heal differently. Your recovery will be influenced by factors like your overall health, the surgical technique used, and your body’s natural ability to recover. In general, though, here’s what you can expect for your breast augmentation recovery timeline:
- First Week: During the first few days after surgery, it’s normal to feel some discomfort, tightness, and swelling. You should take it easy and avoid lifting anything heavy (including vigorous exercise). Getting sufficient rest will be crucial to a smooth recovery.
- Weeks Two to Three: By the two-week mark, any post-surgical swelling and bruising should fade, and you may be able to get back to light activities like walking. While you may feel better, your incisions still need time to heal. For this reason, many surgeons recommend delaying strenuous activities (including swimming) until you get the green light.
- Weeks Four to Six: This is typically the critical period where your body transitions from the initial healing phase to a state where you can consider reintroducing specific exercises. Remember that you should only return to these activities if your surgeon has fully cleared you.
When Can You Safely Get Back To Swimming After Breast Augmentation?
When you swim, you use a lot of muscles in your chest. Repetitive arm movements and the natural pressure of water resistance can put a strain on the surgical area after breast augmentation. You may also increase your chance of infection by submerging your incisions in water before they’re healed enough.
Many board-certified plastic surgeons will likely recommend waiting at least four to six weeks before returning to swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, or oceans. However, your exact timeline will vary. Your surgeon at Northwest Face & Body will evaluate your progress and let you know when it’s safe to swim again.
Tips For A Smooth Breast Augmentation Recovery
- Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions: Every bit of advice you receive from your surgeon (from incision care to follow-up visits) is tailored to your specific case. Sticking to these guidelines will help minimize complications and speed up recovery.
- Stay (Lightly) Active: Walking can promote blood circulation, reduce swelling, and help prevent blood clots. However, always avoid activities that require vigorous arm or chest movements until cleared by your surgeon.
- Listen to Your Body: If you notice increased pain, swelling, or any unusual symptoms after resuming an activity, consult with your surgeon immediately.
- Proper Nutrition and Hydration: Fueling your body with a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals will support the healing process. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, too.
- Use Supportive Garments: Wearing the recommended post-surgical bras or compression garments can help maintain proper implant placement and support your chest during the healing phase.
Breast Augmentation At Northwest Face & Body
At Northwest Face & Body, we’re committed to helping you get the beautiful, natural-looking results you desire while prioritizing your safety and comfort. Our team provides personalized aftercare instructions, including guidelines on when you can resume activities like swimming. We’ll discuss your unique goals, medical history, and lifestyle to create a tailored recovery plan that gets you back to living your best life.
Ready To Dive Into Breast Augmentation At Northwest Face & Body?
Following your surgeon’s advice, giving your body the time it needs to heal, and focusing on self-care will help you be back in the pool (or ocean) before you know it, ready to make a splash with your newly enhanced figure.
The Northwest Face & Body team wants to help you enjoy the benefits of your breast augmentation for years to come, both in and out of the water. If you want to know about your recovery timeline or have questions about returning to swimming, you can call us at (425) 475-4111 or schedule an appointment online.
