The first 6 weeks after breast surgery: a day-by-day recovery schedule

Recovery after breast surgery is the subject patients ask about most. Proper recovery affects the final result directly: rushing harms both the position of the implant and the quality of the scar.

The first day (the day of surgery)

• After waking from the anaesthetic, 4-6 hours of observation at the clinic
• A half-sitting position (a 45° angle) — lying flat is not allowed
• There may be drainage tubes (especially with a lift)
• The first dose of painkiller under medical supervision
• Water and light food after 2-3 hours

Days 2-7: the critical stage

What to do:

• Sleep half-sitting on pillows (3-4 pillows)
• Every 2 hours get out of bed and walk for 5-10 minutes (circulation)
• A sports bra (compression) 24/7
• Ice 4-5 times a day (15 minutes)

What not to do:

• Raise the arms above the shoulder
• Any load (more than 1 kg)
• Take a shower (until day 5-7 the suture must not get wet)
• Drive a car
• Sleep on your side

Weeks 1-2

• The suture is checked; most sutures dissolve by themselves
• The swelling goes down noticeably
• The sports bra continues
• Housework in a light form (no mopping floors)
• A return to office work is possible (half days)

Weeks 3-4

• The scar takes its own shape — it is still red
• The implant begins to "settle" (to move into place)
• Light cardio (walking) — no high heart rate
• An ordinary bra at night — the sports bra only during the day

Weeks 5-6

• The final size has nearly settled into place
• A return to full working hours
• Light exercise (yoga, pilates — minimal upper-body movement)
• Sexual life returns to normal
• Ready for the bikini season

After 6 weeks

• A full return to sport (chest press at 3 months)
• The scar gradually fades
• The final result becomes visible after 6-12 months (the implant fully finds its place)

Warning signs (call the surgeon immediately)

• One side suddenly doubled in size (2 times) → suspected haematoma
• Discharge from the suture (yellow/green) → infection
• A temperature of 38°C+ for more than 48 hours
• A dramatic increase in pain on one side
• Spreading redness across the whole breast

Scar care (starting from week 4)

• Silicone gel (Strataderm, Kelo-cote for example) over 12 months
• Full sun protection (SPF 50+ directly on the suture)
• Laser therapy after 6-12 months (if there is a tendency to a raised scar)