6 Tips To Reduce Swelling After Breast Augmentation

6 Tips To Reduce Swelling After Breast Augmentation

Swelling is a normal and expected part of healing after any surgery. However, it can still worry patients and cause them discomfort. Additionally, many are uninformed when it comes to how long swelling can last and how it can distort the shape and size of the breasts after breast augmentation. Here are six tips to reduce swelling after breast augmentation. 

#1: Wear Your Surgical Bra

 When you wake up after breast augmentation in Sarasota, you will likely notice that are wearing a new surgical bra. It is somewhat similar to a sports bra in that it has no underwire and is somewhat compressive. This helps reduce and control swelling. It also tends to be much more comfortable for patients after a breast augmentation. The surgical bra should be worn for around eight to twelve weeks per Dr. Sessa’s instructions. This helps keep swelling to a minimum as well as maintain the breast’s shape. Based on a patient’s healing, Dr. Sessa may allow a patient to go braless at night or for part of the day after four to six weeks. 

#2: Lymphatic Massages

 Dr. Sessa will instruct patients on how to begin massaging their breasts after surgery. This can help ease discomfort and reduce swelling. However, he may also further recommend specialized, professional lymphatic massages. This type of massage helps to promote lymphatic drainage which can help alleviate pain and swelling. Sometimes these massages are performed with ultrasound waves to further the effects of the massages. 

#3: Sleep Sitting Up

 After most surgical procedures, Dr. Sessa will recommend elevating the head of the bed so that you sleep bent at the hips at roughly a 45-degree angle. This helps prevent swelling from accumulating in the breasts and can help draw it out of the body. Using plenty of pillows helps ensure patients remain comfortable during this time. Dr. Sessa usually has patients sleep like this for the first two weeks after surgery. They can then return to fully laying down, but should still avoid laying on their side. 

#4: Rest

 Activity restrictions after surgery can be frustrating. However, they are put in place for several important reasons, including that they can worsen and prolong swelling. If a patient returns to activity too soon (and even sometimes when they return at the appropriate time), they will likely see the surgical area swelling. Rest and refrain from strenuous activities as instructed by Dr. Sessa. 

#5: Stay Hydrated

 Drinking plenty of water is one of the best things you can do for your body. This is especially true when your body is healing. Water helps flush toxins out of the body and drinking plenty of it can speed up this process. While it may play only a minor role in reducing swelling, it is still extremely important. Additionally, it can counteract foods that may worsen swelling such as high sodium foods. 

#6: Reduce Sodium Intake

 Sodium causes the body to retain fluid which is the primary cause of swelling. Reducing sodium in your diet can help prevent swelling from becoming worse or sticking around too long. Of course, it is impossible to totally eliminate from your diet, but try to be mindful of how much sodium you are consuming during your breast augmentation Sarasota recovery. 

Conclusion

 Dr. Alberico Sessa is one of Florida’s foremost experts in breast augmentation and other cosmetic breast surgeries. He has nearly twenty years of experience helping patients get the breasts of their dreams. Dr. Sessa customizes each breast augmentation Sarasota to fit the particular patient and their needs. To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 941-923-1736. Patients can also reach out online via chat, contact form, or Price Simulator.