Recovering After Having Breast-Implant Surgery
If you are planning on surgically enhancing your breasts with the addition of implants in the near future, you are most likely excited about the new appearance you will have after your surgery is complete. While this reconstructive surgery is bound to boost your confidence in the way you look down the road, it is likely you will have some pain and discomfort during the healing process. Here are some tips you can use after you have implants placed so you are more comfortable as you heal from the surgery.
Relieving Pain After the Surgery Is Complete
When you have implants placed, you will have the option of positioning them above or below your muscles. If you opt for implants above muscles, the pain will be less than with a more invasive under-the-muscle placement. You will not be able to feel pain during the surgery itself due to the use of a general anesthesia. Your surgeon will most likely provide a pain reliever via an IV right after the surgery is completed. This will offer you instant relieve as you wake from the procedure.
The pain relief will wear off, however, after the IV is removed. At this time, you will need to take prescribed pain medication. Make sure not to miss a dosage so you do not feel increased pain in the area of the incisions as you heal. Your surgeon will alert you about the dosage and when to wean yourself off from the medication so you feel the least amount of pain possible during the healing process.
Dealing with the Discoloration of Bruising
As you heal, you may notice areas with bruising near your breasts. Bruises may also be present under the arms if this was the locale of the cuts for placing the implants. To minimize this discoloration, Vitamin E capsules can be taken orally. These can be found in your local home-goods or health-food store. Ice packs can also be applied to areas where bruising is noticed. The application of a cold temperature will also minimize the pain felt as you recover, as the cold will reduce inflammation.
Avoiding Movements During the Healing Process
It is a good idea to take some preparatory steps in making the process of healing as restful as possible so you do not experience added pain when trying to perform tasks. Consider having your underarms waxed a few days before the surgery so you do not need to worry about shaving as you heal. Set aside several shirts with button-fronts to wear so you do not cause yourself pain by pulling clothing over your head. Setting up a bedside table with the items you use most will be beneficial in keeping you from moving too much. This can include medication, your remote control, a cell phone, and some snacks.
Contact your surgeon or a surgeon such as John Gatti MD for more recovery tips.