Breast Augmentation Discharge Instructions

Tony L. Weaver, DO, FACS
Board-Certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
Office Phone: 256-817-6153
Text Line (Non-Urgent Questions): 256-434-7520
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“I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,” declares the Lord.
— Jeremiah 30:17


General ExpectationsYou have undergone breast augmentation surgery. Swelling, tightness, pressure, bruising, and soreness are normal during the first several weeks. Your breasts may initially sit higher on the chest and feel firm—this improves gradually as swelling resolves and the implants settle.
Full healing and final shape may take 3–6 months.


Activity

• First 48 hours: Rest and limit activity. Short walks are encouraged to reduce blood clot risk.
• Weeks 1–2: No lifting greater than 10 pounds. Avoid pushing, pulling, or straining.
• Arms: Keep arm movements light. Avoid repetitive overhead motion.
• Exercise:
  • Light walking is allowed immediately
  • No cardio, chest workouts, or upper-body strength training for 4–6 weeks
• Driving: You may drive once you are off narcotic pain medication and can move comfortably and safely.
• Sexual activity: May resume when comfortable, avoiding pressure on the breasts.

Incision & Wound Care

• Your incisions are covered with Prineo / skin glue or dressings.
• Showering:
  • You may shower the day after surgery
  • Gently wash with soap and water
  • Pat dry—do not scrub incisions
• Do NOT:
  • Soak in tubs, pools, or hot tubs for 4 weeks
  • Apply lotions, ointments, or scar products until cleared by Dr. Weaver
• Allow surgical tape or glue to fall off naturally.

Support Garment

• Wear your surgical bra or support garment at all times, except while showering.
• Do not wear underwire bras until cleared.
• If a strap or implant positioning band was provided, wear it exactly as instructed.

Sleeping Position

• Sleep on your back, head and chest elevated with pillows or in a recliner.
• No side or stomach sleeping for at least 4 weeks or until cleared.

MedicationsTake medications exactly as prescribed:

• Pain medication (e.g., Percocet or equivalent) as needed
• Ibuprofen (Motrin) for inflammation if approved
• Muscle relaxer if prescribed
• Antibiotics (if given): complete the full course
• Antiemetic (Phenergan/Zofran) for nausea if needed

⚠️ Do not drive or drink alcohol while taking narcotic pain medication.


Swelling, Bruising & Implant Settling

• Swelling may peak at 48–72 hours
• Breasts may appear uneven early—this is normal
• Implant settling (“drop and fluff”) occurs gradually over weeks to months
• Mild firmness is expected early; sudden tightness or worsening pain should be reported

Massage

• Implant massage is not routine for all patients
• Follow Dr. Weaver’s specific instructions, if massage is recommended for your implant type and placement

What to Avoid

• Smoking, vaping, or nicotine use (impairs healing and increases complication risk)
• Heavy lifting or chest workouts before clearance
• Excessive salt intake (worsens swelling)

When to Call the Office ImmediatelyCall 256-817-6153 if you experience:

• Fever >101°F
• Rapidly increasing pain, swelling, or firmness in one breast
• Significant redness, warmth, or drainage from the incision
• Sudden asymmetry or expanding bruising
• Shortness of breath or chest pain (seek emergency care)

For non-urgent questions, text 256-434-7520 during business hours.





Follow-Up

• Keep all scheduled postoperative appointments
• These visits are critical to ensure proper healing and optimal results

The Weaver Way
Your safety, healing, and long-term outcome matter. Follow these instructions closely, listen to your body, and never hesitate to reach out with concerns.
Seek the Weaver Way for quality care, safety-centered surgery, and excellent results.