How long to wait before having sex after breast augmentation
The breast augmentation surgery is one of the most requested plastic surgery interventions not only in the US but all over the world. Breast enlargement surgery is the only efficient solution to increase the size of the breasts that delivers permanent results with minimal potential complications. Breast implants have been used for decades now, and with each generation of implants, the results achieved are more natural, and risks are reduced even more.
More than this, nowadays, it is even possible for patients to see how their breasts will look like after the surgery with the help of a breast augmentation 3D visualization tool. At the Yates Institute for Plastic Surgery in Fort Lauderdale, Dr. Essie Yates uses Illusio Surgery Visualization, which is a great tool that helps patients get more than an idea about what to expect after the surgery, hence minimizing the risks of achieving unsatisfactory results post-op.
Even if the procedure has been performed for quite some time now, there are still some questions that need a clear answer. Such as how long to wait before having sex after breast augmentation. But before answering this question, let’s see what happens during and after the intervention is performed.
Breast augmentation surgery – how it’s done
Breast enlargement surgery is performed using breast implants made out of silicone or a silicone bag filled with saline solution. The implants are inserted using incisions made under the breasts, in the inframammary fold (where the breast meets the chest wall). The other surgical approaches are periareolar and transaxillary. This means that incisions are made around the areola or at the level of the axilla.
After the incisions are performed, the plastic surgeon makes a pocket either under the mammary gland or under the pectoral muscle. This is what we call the implant placement. Aside from the subglandular and the submuscular placement, there is a third option – the dual plane placement. This is a very popular option nowadays – it means that the implant is with the upper part under the pectoral muscle and with the lower part under the mammary gland. The results look natural, and there is a minimal risk of developing complications.
What happens after breast implant surgery?
The procedure doesn’t usually last more than an hour; after this, the patient is moved to the recovery room. If no complications occur, the patient can go home within 24 to 48 hours after the surgery is performed.
There is a minimal level of pain after breast augmentation surgery. However, most patients mention a certain level of discomfort, a tight feeling, and pressure at the level of the chest. All these are normal as it takes time for the body to adjust to the new implants.
The plastic surgeon might prescribe antibiotics after the breast augmentation surgery to help you avoid infection. Analgesic medication is also prescribed to keep the discomfort at a minimum. However, the patient needs to follow certain rules to get the best results possible and to navigate smoothly through the recovery period.
Breast augmentation recovery period
The recovery period after this complex intervention can take up to two months. Most patients can resume work two weeks after the surgery, but they still need to avoid lifting heavy objects, stretching, and other intense physical activities for another month or two.
The special post-op bra needs to be worn for at least two months post-op to give the new breasts the support they need and to help reduce the swelling and bruising. Sleeping on the tummy is not recommended for at least a few weeks (or months) post-op. Generally speaking, the patient needs to avoid any type of pressure at the level of the chest or the overstretching of the arms.
At first, the breasts are high on the chest wall, and there might be bruising and swelling in the area too. Also, the incisions are visible at this time. The breasts will drop and become softer in two to three months. The incisions will look much better after the cicatrization process is completed – keep in mind that this could take up to 8 months or even more.
Sex after breast augmentation
Most patients undergo breast augmentation surgery to look more attractive. Often, just undergoing the procedure, and their libido is increased. They look and feel better, and they want to share it with their partner. But is it safe to have sex soon after the breast augmentation surgery?
Well, as we’ve already discussed, the final results of the breast enhancement procedure can take a while to show up. This means that it is possible for the breasts to not look their best in the first weeks post-op. Make sure to discuss these issues with your partner before getting intimate.
More than this, your partner should know that all types of pressure at the level of the breasts should be avoided. This means that pulling the breasts or intense rubbing can be painful. Also, your partner’s weight on your front (and breasts) can trigger discomfort and even potential complications (such as the displacement of the implant).
During sexual intercourse, due to the stimulation, the breasts can swell up. When this happens too soon after the surgery, it can be painful and uncomfortable. This is the reason why you should proceed with care the first time you have sex after your surgery. Soft and gentle lovemaking is possible after a week or two after the surgery if you’re feeling up to it. More intense physical activities should be postponed for at least a month or two post-op.
Final words
When to have sex after the breast augmentation surgery? The short answer is after two weeks. But it’s actually up to you and your partner. It’s important to only engage in sexual intercourse if you feel up to it, and there is no pain or discomfort associated with it. Also, make sure to discuss the details with your partner to avoid accidents and awkward occurrences.