The Side Effects of Breast Lift Surgery

When patients come to our San Antonio plastic surgery practice, they know that they are getting some of the finest care in the area. We work closely with patients to make sure they look great and experience as few problems as possible as they recover.

Many patients who are considering breast lift surgery to treat drooping and sagging breasts have questions about side effects of surgery. Let's consider the side effects of breast lift surgery so you have realistic expectations about the treatment process and what it entails.

Pain and Discomfort

Pain and discomfort are to be expected following any sort of surgery. After breast lift, patients can expect issues with sore or tender breasts, particularly around the incision areas. The pain can be managed by following all pre-op and post-op instructions closely and to the letter. Pain medications can be taken as recommended to address serious issues with soreness.

Bruising After Breast Lift Surgery

Bruising is also a common side effect following surgeries of all kinds. The bruising tends to be most pronounced in the first week or so after surgery. By the end of two weeks, patients will notice major bruising has faded, with some discoloration lasting for roughly a month. Proper rest and recover can work wonders for dealing with bruises.

Swelling After Breast lift Surgery

Swelling is to be expected after surgery and it tends to accompany bruising. In many cases, major swelling will have abated by the end of a month. Minor swelling can persist for several weeks after surgery. To manage major swelling in the first weeks of recovery, it's generally ideal for patients to use cold compresses as instructed.

Changes in Nipple and Breast Sensitivity

Around the incision sites, patients may notice changes in breast sensitivity. This could mean very sensitive or numb nipples, or it may mean tingling sensations along the breasts. This is normal, and the issues may persist for several weeks or more. As patients heal, these problems with sensitivity should be less serious. We can discuss these issues if they persist in follow-up visits to the practice.

How Long Should I Take Off from Work?

In general, patients will want to take two to three weeks off of work in order to fully recover. Keep in mind that while you may be able to return to work after two weeks, you may not be able to resume all of your usual work duties and activities until a bit later. This will depend on the progress of your healing and can be discussed during follow-up visits.

A Word on Post-surgical Scarring

Scarring is a reality after surgery, and patients should be well aware that scarring will be visible in the early months of recovery. As months go by, patients should notice a reduction in visible scarring. While the scar will remain, they should be less noticeable in the years ahead; such is the nature of post-op recovery. Rest assured that the scars from breast lift surgery are concealed by most tops, bras, and bathing suits.

Learn More About Breast Lift Surgery

For more information about breast lift surgery and how it can help you look your absolute best, be sure to contact our cosmetic plastic surgery center today. Our team will work with you and help you look your very best.