After Surgery: optimising your recovery

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After Surgery: optimising your recovery

Optimise your health.
Enhance your results.

At Enova Surgery, we believe that preparation is just as important as the procedure itself. By making a few intentional changes to your lifestyle in the weeks before surgery, you can reduce your risk of complications and support a smooth, confident recovery.

We are invested in the success of your procedure, and the guidance below will help you to achieve your best outcome.

1. Wound and Scar Care

Keep dressings clean and dry as instructed until your follow-up visit.
Once your incisions are fully closed (usually 2–4 weeks post-op), begin scar treatment.
- Silicone gel or tape is the most effective way to minimise scarring – apply daily for 3–6 months.
- Gently massage scars with a fragrance-free moisturizer to keep tissue soft and supple.
- Protect scars from the sun – UV exposure can darken them. Use high SPF sunscreen or cover them for at least 12 months.

Most scars fade over time but can take 12–18 months to fully settle.

2. Wearing the Right Support Garment

You will find helpful guides for your postoperative support garment in the Information Hub
Wear a high-support compression garment (without underwires) day and night for at least 6 weeks.
This helps reduce swelling, supports the healing tissue, and can improve scar outcomes and shape.

Post-operative chest compression advice

Post-operative bra advice

3. Pain Relief and Swelling

Take pain relief as prescribed, especially in the first few days. Paracetamol and ibuprofen are usually enough.
Avoid taking additional anti-inflammatories unless your surgeon agrees.
Use cold packs gently in the early stages to help reduce swelling (wrapped in a towel – never directly on the skin).
Expect some tightness or pressure for the first week or two. This usually settles as swelling reduces and the tissues adjust.

4. Movement and Activity

First 2 weeks: Focus on rest – short walks are fine, but no lifting over 2 kg.
Weeks 3–6: Gradually increase movement, but avoid chest/arm strain.
After 6 weeks: You can slowly return to exercise – check with your surgeon first.

Most people can return to desk-based work after about 1-2 weeks, but full recovery takes longer – around 6 weeks before resuming exercise.

5. Nutrition to Support Healing

Aim for a balanced diet with plenty of:

Protein (chicken, eggs, fish, legumes) – helps repair tissue
Fruits and vegetables – rich in vitamins and antioxidants
Whole grains – provide sustained energy
Stay hydrated – drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day.

Avoid restrictive diets during recovery – your body needs energy and nutrients to heal properly.

6. Nicotine and Alcohol

Avoid nicotine for at least 4-6 weeks before and after surgery. This includes nicotine replacement, vaping and smoking. Nicotine restricts blood flow and increases the risk of wound healing problems, infection, and poor scarring.
Limit alcohol – it can increase bleeding risk and interfere with medications.

7. Sleep and Resting Position

Sleep on your back, propped up slightly (with 2–3 pillows or a pregnancy pillow) for the first few weeks. This reduces swelling and helps keep the tissues in position.
Avoid sleeping on your front or side until your surgeon advises it’s safe.

8. Looking After Your Mood

It’s normal to feel emotional, tired, or a bit low in the first week or two. You’ve had surgery, an anaesthetic, and a change in your body – it’s a lot to process.

Try to keep your routine gentle but consistent.
Have someone to talk to, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
Keep in mind that swelling and bruising can make results look different in the early stages – things will settle.

9. Watch for Warning Signs

While complications are rare, contact your surgical team if you notice:

Sudden swelling or pain in one breast
Redness, warmth, or discharge from your wounds
Fever or feeling unwell
Difficulty breathing or chest pain (seek urgent help)

10. Follow-Up Appointments

Always attend your scheduled check-ups so your progress can be monitored and any concerns can be addressed early.

Reminder

Everyone heals at a slightly different pace. Be kind to yourself, listen to your body, and allow time for recovery. If you have any questions or are unsure about anything, get in touch with the team at Enova Surgery – we’re here to help.

When to Start

Begin making these changes at least 4–6 weeks before your surgery date. Think of it as an investment in you – for a safer operation, smoother healing, and results that last.

Your body will thank you – and so will your results.

Questions?

We’re here for you. If you’re unsure about any medications, supplements, or lifestyle changes, get in touch. Your safety and wellbeing are our priority at every stage.

Enquire today

To learn more or to book a consultation at Enova Surgery, simply complete our enquiry form. A member of our team will be in touch as soon as possible.