Breast Lift (Mastopexy) Surgery
AFTER CARE

Immediately After Surgery (First 48 Hours)

• You will wake up with surgical dressings and a supportive bra that helps maintain breast position and reduce swelling.
• Mild to moderate pain, tightness, and swelling are expected and managed with prescribed medication.
• Bruising and heaviness may increase over the first 48 hours, then slowly begin to subside.
• Small drains might be placed to remove fluid; they’re usually removed after 1–3 days.
• Pinkish drainage on the dressing is normal; heavy bleeding or sudden swelling should be reported.
• Breasts will appear firm, elevated, and slightly overcorrected — this is normal and settles with time.
• Keep your head and chest elevated (30–45°) while sleeping to reduce swelling.
• Avoid raising your arms above shoulder level or lifting any weight.
• Gentle walking is encouraged to enhance circulation.
• Do not shower until cleared by your surgeon (usually after 48–72 hours).
• Expect mild emotional sensitivity or fatigue from anesthesia and temporary body adjustments.

Goal: Maintain comfort, protect incisions, and control swelling.

Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline

Week 1 – Early Healing & Drain Care

• Swelling and bruising peak in the first few days, then begin to ease.
• Drains (if used) are removed once drainage decreases.
• Continue wearing your support bra 24/7 — only remove it for short showers if allowed.
• Dressings are checked or changed at your first postoperative appointment.
• Sleep strictly on your back with your chest elevated.
• Avoid arm movements that stretch incisions.
• You may resume gentle walking indoors.
• Keep incisions dry and avoid applying creams or ointments unless prescribed.

Goal: Prevent fluid accumulation and support the breasts while early healing begins.

Week 2 – Decreased Swelling & Wound Care

• Pain becomes minimal, and you may only feel tightness or mild pulling.
• Bruising and discomfort continue to fade.
• Sutures (if non-absorbable) are typically removed by day 10–14.
• Numbness or hypersensitivity of nipples or skin is common and temporary.
• Light activities like desk work or gentle household tasks are allowed.
• Continue using your support bra day and night.
• Sleep on your back, avoid pressure or side positions.

Goal: Allow incisions to seal and swelling to subside.

Weeks 3–4 – Shape Refinement

• Breasts begin to settle into a more natural position, losing early tightness.
• Swelling continues to decrease and bruises fade.
• You may notice slight asymmetry — this is normal as each side heals at a different pace.
• Scars appear pink or firm and start to flatten gradually.
• Support bra should still be worn 24 hours a day.
• Avoid stretching, lifting, or exercise.
• Mild itching or tingling indicates healing nerves.

Goal: Support healing tissue and prevent stress on scars.

Weeks 5–6 – Return to Gentle Activity

• Most swelling and discomfort resolve.
• Begin light exercise or stretching as approved by your surgeon (no upper-body workouts yet).
• Start scar care therapy (silicone gel, silicone tape, or prescribed creams).
• You may shower normally but still avoid baths, pools, or saunas.
• Scars continue to fade, and breasts appear softer and more natural.
• Continue wearing your support bra both day and night.

Goal: Encourage tissue flexibility and optimize scar appearance.

Weeks 7–8 – Maturing Results

• You can usually return to normal daily life and most work activities.
• Breasts settle into their final shape and projection.
• Minor swelling or firmness may persist but continues to improve.
• Underwire bras can be introduced after 8 weeks, depending on incision healing.
• Gentle upper-body exercises can begin once cleared by your surgeon.
• Continue protecting scars from sun exposure.

Goal: Regain comfort and maintain new contour stability.

Months 3–6 – Final Healing Phase

• Breasts look more natural, scars continue to fade, and sensitivity returns gradually.
• Final shape and symmetry stabilize.
• Continue wearing supportive bras, especially during exercise, to preserve your result.
• Swelling is minimal or completely gone.
• Scars lighten from pink to pale and become softer.

Goal: Maintain long-term results and mature, healthy scars.

Recovery & Lifestyle Tips

• Avoid smoking or nicotine for at least 4 weeks before and after surgery.
• Eat a balanced, high-protein diet to support healing.
• Drink plenty of water to reduce swelling.
• Sleep on your back for at least 3 weeks.
• Avoid sun exposure on scars for 6 months.
• Keep your follow-up appointments for progress and scar evaluation.

When to Contact Dr. Ahmed Khazbak

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This plan represents general recovery guidelines after breast lift (mastopexy) surgery. Healing speed, garment use, massage timing, and return to activity vary by individual case and Dr. Ahmed Khazbak’s preference. Always follow Dr. Ahmed Khazbak’s personalised instructions.