Did you know, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation is the most common cosmetic procedure? Nonetheless, the surgery is not insignificant. Many patients have questions about caring for their breast implants. As with anything, proper care increases longevity.

Immediately after surgery, you can expect some tenderness and discomfort. Additionally, there is bruising and swelling. It will slowly subside, but can last a month or more. Depending on the patient, you may receive a prescription for pain or nausea. Nonetheless, if you notice any signs of infection, such as a fever, report this immediately to your doctor.

Immediately after surgery, you must wear a postoperative bra until healed. However, after it is also important to wear a bra that provides excellent support. Breast implants add weight, and this weight can affect breast shape. Moreover, a sports bar is essential for physical or strenuous activity such as jogging, biking, or other exercises.

Additionally, daily massage of your breasts should become part of your routine. The purpose is to help move implants into position, but also aids in keeping them soft and may reduce scarring. Nonetheless, if you have surface implants, or had a breast lift with augmentation, massaging is not recommended. Some surgeons will recommend a massaging routine for only 3 months to a year. However, you want to ensure that implants do not move over time. Therefore, it is a good idea to continue.

Finally, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration recommends for silicone implants that you receive an “MRI screening for silent rupture 3 years after receiving your implant and every 2 years after that.” A leaking silicone implant is difficult to detect because the gel often stays with the shell that forms around the implant. Keep in mind, breast implants have a very low failure rate. After the initial MRI, additional screenings are only a recommendation and more for peace of mind.

Do you have any questions? If you would like to talk about caring for your implants after breast augmentation surgery, or need more information, please contact us.