After surgery, you'll quickly realize that it'll take some time to get back to your normal daily routine. Some preparation before your breast augmentation can help to make your home a welcoming haven in the days following surgery.
Before your breast augmentation procedure,
your surgeon will give you instructions on how to prepare for both the surgery and recovery. As with any type of surgery, this procedure requires a significant amount of recovery time. You may be up to your daily routine within a few weeks, but your recovery will probably continue for a couple months as your body adjusts to its new size and shape. Here are some tips that will help to make those first couple of weeks at home more comfortable:
Get caught up on cleaning and laundry before your surgery. Your home should be as spotless as possible before you leave. That way, when you come home, you won't be thinking about all the cleaning that needs to be done!
Go shopping, and stock up for at least two weeks. You'll want to plan on a bland diet, so avoid fried foods and spices. Purchase items that are easily prepared, and snack foods that you can grab throughout the day. Some good choices include applesauce, cottage cheese, oatmeal, yogurt, pudding, and other easily digested foods. If you prefer bottled or flavored water, stock up on that too. You'll need plenty of liquids to rehydrate your body.
You won't be able to reach above your head comfortably for several weeks following surgery, so you'll want to bring frequently used items down to lower cupboards or countertops. Go through your home a few days before your breast augmentation surgery date and find items that you use every day in your bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, laundry room, and other areas of the house.
Pull out plenty of comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to wear during your recovery time. You'll want to avoid shirts that need to be pulled over your head. Instead, choose button down shirts. You'll also want to purchase a couple of cotton sports bras, and avoid bras with underwire.
Plan to keep your upper body elevated for several days after your breast augmentation. Pile up several comfy pillows on your bed, or sleep in a recliner. Fill an end table with your favorite books, magazines, crossword puzzles, the TV remote, and other relaxing options. You can also include a coaster for your glass of water, and some prepackaged snacks. This will provide you with a convenient resting area during the day.
Have a phone within reach at all times, along with a list of people to call. Include your doctor's office number as well as his or her after-hours number. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call. You'll also need a thermometer nearby, since you'll be taking your temperature often. Be sure to keep track of the numbers and call your doctor immediately if you begin running a fever.
