Breast augmentation is one of the most rewarding procedures we perform, and the weeks following surgery are when your result truly takes shape. Caring for yourself carefully during this time will give your implants the best possible environment to settle into their final position. We are with you throughout.
Preparing for Your Procedure
One Week Before
- Refrain from alcohol for at least 3 days before and after surgery.
- Confirm all required laboratory work and blood tests have been completed and sent to our office. Fax: 855-506-2309.
- Fill any prescribed medications so they are ready at home before your procedure date.
- Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, Vitamin E, and any blood-thinning supplements unless otherwise directed. Tylenol is acceptable.
- Refrain from all nicotine and tobacco products. Nicotine impairs circulation and healing and increases anesthesia risk.
The Evening Before
- Our team will contact you to confirm your arrival time.
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight — this includes water, breath mints, and gum. Failure to fast may result in cancellation of your procedure, as a fasting state is required for safe sedation.
- The only exception is prescribed medication; take it with the smallest sip of water the morning of surgery as instructed.
Morning of Surgery
- Shower and shampoo thoroughly before arriving.
- Do not apply makeup, hair products, gels, or nail polish. Acrylic nails may remain.
- Dress in loose, comfortable clothing and flat, easy-to-slip-on footwear.
- Leave all jewelry, body piercings, and valuables at home.
- If you are currently menstruating, please wear a pad rather than a tampon.
- Please make sure you have a responsible adult picking you up when surgery if completed.
Your Recovery at Home
The First 24 Hours
- Do not drive for 24 hours after surgery, or at any time while taking pain medication.
- Avoid making major decisions or participating in activities that require clear judgment for the first 24 hours.
Oral & Dental Hygiene
- Follow a soft diet for the first 1-2 weeks following surgery. Avoid foods that require excessive chewing (steak, raw vegetables)
- Choose soft, nourishing options: soups, yogurt, scrambled eggs, smoothies, and soft-cooked foods.
- A balanced, protein-rich diet supports healing. Increased fiber intake is also helpful, as decreased activity may cause constipation in the early recovery period.
- Maintain gentle oral hygiene throughout recovery. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and avoid vigorous rinsing that could disturb the incision if placed inside the mouth.
- If prescribed a mouth rinse, use as directed.
Head Elevation & Rest
- Keep your head elevated on 2-3 pillows when resting or sleeping for at least the first week. Elevation reduces swelling and pressure in the chin area.
- Sleep on your back during recovery. Avoid positions that place direct pressure on your chin.
- Apply light cool compresses (not ice directly on skin) to reduce swelling during the first 48 hours.
Activity Restriction
- Wear your compression garment as directed.
- Suture care instructions will be provided at your post-operative visit.
- Do not apply pressure or massage to the chin area while the implant is integrating.
- Avoid heavy lifting, bending at the waist, and strenuous activity for 2–3 weeks.
- Light walking around the home is encouraged from day one.
Supporting Your Results
Swelling & Healing Timeline
- Swelling and some numbness or altered sensation in the chin and lower lip area are completely normal and will resolve as swelling reduces and nerves recover.
- Final results emerge over 2 to 4 months as swelling fully resolves.
Scar Care & Sun Protection
- Avoid direct sun exposure to your arm incisions for at least 1 year following surgery.
- Once incisions are fully healed, apply unscented zinc oxide SPF 30+ consistently to help minimize scar visibility.
- Arm lift scars are long by nature — consistent scar care over the first year makes a significant difference in their final appearance.
Hydration & Nutrition
- Drink 8-10 glasses of water per day to support healing and reduce swelling.
- Prioritize protein-rich, anti-inflammatory foods and limit sodium intake.
- Avoid alcohol for at least 2 weeks and do not smoke or use nicotine products during recovery.
Contact Our Office Immediately If You Experience Any of the Following:
- Fever above 101°F
- Pain that is not adequately relieved by prescribed medication
- Increased redness, warmth, or swelling around the incision site
- Bleeding that saturates your dressings
- Foul-smelling or unusual discharge
- Persistent nausea, vomiting, or any other symptom that concerns you
When in doubt, please call. We would always rather hear from you.
