How to Plan for Breast Fat Transfer Recovery
Women who would like to modestly enhance the size of their breasts but are generally happy with their overall shape may be ideal patients for natural breast augmentation.
Find out if you’re a good candidate for a fat transfer augmentation.
In this article, we’ll delve into what you can expect during the recovery period — and specifically, how you can plan ahead to make your recovery as fast and comfortable as possible.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING RECOVERY
Breast augmentation fat transfer recovery typically lasts around three to five weeks, after which time all major swelling will be significantly reduced. At this time, patients should be able to see the majority of their results.
People can usually return to work and light activity about three to five days after their procedure, but swelling and other light side effects may still be present.
During the initial period of recovery from a fat transfer breast augmentation procedure, it’s important to avoid lifting heavy objects (anything over 10 pounds) or performing any type of vigorous activity (sports, running, cycling, etc.).
Those in recovery should, however, get up and walk around for brief, frequent periods throughout the day. They should also eat a healthy diet and get plenty of hydration and sleep.
A special compression garment must be worn for approximately two weeks after surgery. After this, for the next 10 weeks, compression clothing must be worn. Dr. Sieber will provide you with a comprehensive list of the garments you’ll need to wear during your breast fat transfer recovery.
PLAN AHEAD FOR THE BEST OUTCOME
The best way to have a successful outcome after a breast augmentation that uses the fat transfer method is to plan ahead. As soon as you have met with Dr. Sieber for your consultation appointment and been cleared for surgery, you’ll book your procedure date.
Once you know this date, you can start planning around it. For example, you can ask for time off at your job, and arrange for someone you trust to take you home after the procedure is finished.
In regards to home preparations, make sure you have healthy snacks and pre-made meals on-hand. Freezer meals such as soups, stews, casseroles, and other quick dishes can be very useful when your mobility is limited during the recovery period.
Sometimes, those in recovery may even prearrange to pick up their prescription medications before their surgery so that they don’t have to rush to do this right after their procedure.
FOLLOW DR. SIEBER’S AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS
The best way to have a successful recovery from any cosmetic surgery is to make sure you are abiding by your surgeon’s post operative instructions. Dr. Sieber will give you a packet with information that details how to care for yourself during your recovery.
This will include things like how to sleep, how to care for your incision sites, what compression garments to wear and for how long, what you should be eating, what activities and/or positions or movements you should avoid, etc.
The patients who follow these instructions closely are the most successful after fat transfer surgery. This means that they have the fewest complications and the best results.
Unfortunately, some patients rush things after cosmetic surgery. For example, they may try to return to exercise too quickly or push themselves in other ways.
These patients are putting their health at risk. In addition, they may be prolonging their recovery times and compromising their results.
Strain and tension (too much reaching, stretching, and exertion, for example) can cause incisions to heal poorly. Thick, raised, darkened scars may result instead of smooth, flat, light-colored scars that are hardly noticeable.
It is of the utmost importance that you follow your post-operative instructions after breast augmentation. You can look up breast fat augmentation recovery pictures before your surgery to get an idea of what to expect.
GET HELP AT HOME
Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help after surgery. You will, of course, need someone there at the surgical facility directly after your procedure to take you home. You won’t be able to drive yourself.
But this won’t be the only time you’ll need assistance. Most patients will benefit from having someone reliable who can stay with them or come to their home frequently after surgery to assist with other daily activities.
For example, you may need help caring for children — especially if you have little ones at home. You may need help with cooking and cleaning also. It can be beneficial to have someone who can run out and get groceries and pick up prescriptions as well.
As is the case whenever you need help from friends, family, or hired assistance, it’s important to arrange things as soon as possible.
Planning ahead in this way will ensure that you aren’t rushing to take care of these tasks right before your surgery or trying to get help when you are in those challenging first days of recovery.
FAQS: FAT TRANSFER RECOVERY
FAT TRANSFER TO BREAST RECOVERY?
After the fat transfer procedure, your breasts will feel tender, swollen, and somewhat uncomfortable. During the recovery process you may feel some numbness or hypersensitivity as well.
Your breasts may be slightly sore. You may also have some discomfort where you had liposuction (where the fat was harvested for the transfer procedure).
HOW LONG ARE BEASTS SORE AFTER FAT TRANSFER?
During the first 7 days you may feel bruising and swelling, but some discomfort is expected. Almost anything can be treated quickly by using meds like acetaminophen for pain or nausea-causing symptoms. Usually a patient reports a complete relaxation after about a week of treatment.
SHOULD I MASSAGE MY BREAST AFTER FAT TRANSFER?
No. Avoid massages after fat transfer procedures. You need to give the fat time to adhere in its new location. Pressure and agitation may discourage the adherence process.
WHAT ARE THE RESTRICTIONS A FAT TRANSFER PROCEDURE TO BREAST
During the first week don’t lift more than 10lbs. You must avoid intense activity for at least three days after your surgery.
WHAT TO EAT AFTER FAT TRANSFER TO BREAST?
After any surgery, it’s important to eat a well-balanced diet of lean meat, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats.
WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT FROM A BREAST SURGERY AFTER 5 YEARS?
Everyone is different. Most people will still have great results after five years as long as they maintain their weight and stay healthy.
You can also check fat transfer procedure reviews and before and after photos to see what it will be like to have a fat transfer breast augmentation 1 year later, 5 years later, and beyond.
HOW IS A FAT TRANSFER BREAST AUGMENTATION DIFFERENT THAN BREAST IMPLANTS?
Dimensions and Form: Breast Implants grant you the option to select both the dimensions and contour of your breasts. Breast size and breast shape are a bit more flexible with implants.
On the other hand, fat transfer augmentation restricts you to the quantity of fat that can be preserved and infused, along with the inherent shape of your breasts. A fat transfer results in extremely natural looking results as the augmentation is done by way of fat cells transferred directly into the breast tissue.
BOOK A CONSULTATION TO LEARN ABOUT BREAST FAT TRANSFER
Dr. David Sieber is one of the few double board-certified plastic surgeons in the San Francisco Bay Area. His training and expertise make him the ideal choice for your breast augmentation.
If you’ve been considering breast augmentation and you think a fat transfer may work for you, contact our office today to book a consultation with Dr. Sieber. We look forward to hearing from you!
