How To Reduce Bruising And Swelling After Breast Augmentation Surgery

As with any invasive surgery, you will need to dedicate recovery time to in order to reap the full benefits of breast augmentation surgery. The post-procedure period can be distressing for those who experience quite painful bruising and swelling while the surgery site heals. If you have recently undergone breast augmentation surgery or are planning to, here are some tips to help your healing process:

Icing. You should ice for 40 minutes on and 20 minutes off, day and night, during the initial post-op days. Do this once every hour. You should also take care not to place the cold compress directly on the skin, as it will be sensitive; instead place a cloth or a towel underneath.

Medical compression bra. A medical compression bra accelerates the healing and allows you to get back to your normal routine by minimizing swelling, increasing circulation and providing important support to the surgical areas. It also helps to flush toxins that accumulate near the incision site out of the body.

Elevation. It is important that you rest and sleep on your back in an inclined position, preferably between 25 and 45 degrees. This will optimize blood circulation to the vital areas and speed up healing. Many women report that bed wedges provide the best elevation for their bodies and work far better than pillows.

Avoid hot showers. During the initial weeks after surgery, care should be taken to avoid hot showers, as hot water can worsen swelling. Also avoid having strong streams of water make direct contact with the surgery site.

Eat right. Salt is notoriously bad for swelling and should be avoided. Pineapples and pineapple juice, which contain bromelain, are good for reducing swelling. Lettuce, eggs and yogurt, all excellent sources of vitamin K, are similarly great at helping to reduce swelling.

A breast augmentation procedure is a life changing experience for many women. The confidence and positive self-image reported is not to be taken for granted. That being said, a breast augmentation is still a surgical procedure that requires careful aftercare. With a commitment to helping your body recover as quickly as possible and a dedication to reducing swelling and bruising, you will minimize the recovery time and promote healing—allowing you enjoy the new you sooner rather than later.