FAQs: Post-Op Checklist Breast Augmentation – Breast Implants

Post Op Breast Augmentation Checklist

1. As with any surgery, for breast augmentation try to always have someone with you for the first 48 hours.
2. To get up from the edge of the couch, get your butt to the edge, put your feet about 2-3 feet apart with your toes pointing out, bend your knees, try to keep a straight back and then stand up by straightening your knees (like a ballerina) Hold on to your boobs since the breast implants will make your breasts sore.
3. Drink plenty of fluids (sugarfree) after your breast augmentation.
4. Don't fight the pain of your new breast implants! You will tense up and make it worse. Just go with it.
5. Use visualization - relax and imagine the breast implants getting soft, dropping, healing quickly, looking beautiful.
6. Constantly tell youself to relax - especially your shoulders.
7. Take your meds like the doctor ordered. You don't have to be in pain.
8. If you have to remove blood stained dried gauze pads (like from a lift), do it in the shower with luke warm water trickling on your breasts. They will work free on their own. Make sure you are allowed to shower before you do this!
9. Use triple antibiotic ointment with panty liners (works great instead of gauze) to cover your stiches on your breasts.
10. Start to walk around a little as soon as possible and get some fresh air.
11. Eat if you get hungry (something simple like scrambled eggs or jello) when recovering from breast enhancement/augmentation or mastopexy surgery.
12. Get lots of rest - sleep if you are tired after your 'big day'.
13. Listen to your body and don't overdo it.
14. If you are used to sleeping on your sides or stomach, you might find your couch is easier to sleep on since it gives you back support.
15. Put pillows under your arms for support (like a throne)
16. Have someone help you pull your pants or pj's up after going to the bathroom - pulling is tough and it is easier without underpants. Better still, wear a skirt: It will be easier to wear an elastic waisted skirt (comfy smooth cotton) rather than pants. No reaching to pull up.
17. Use ice on the swelling and bruises 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off if this is ok with your doctor.
18. Have someone help you with showers especially to dry you off. And to help you get dressed.
19. Let people help you after your breast surgery!
20. Satin PJ's: feel great and look sexy but don't wear them during the time you need to prop up at an angle to sleep (10 days or so post-op). You will slide off and have to re-position yourself quite often during the evening.
21. If you do not own a recliner, a futon folded as a couch will help to add a "heavy" pillow under the backs of the knees to avoid additional stress to the back.
22. Keep a positive attitude and don't sweat the small stuff!! (its all small stuff)

Also contributed by "Stacked."