What Should You Avoid After Getting Breast Implants?

Breast implants are a great option if you want to enhance a flat chest and increase cup size. But after breast augmentation in Dallas, TX, it's important to care for yourself and avoid activities that may interfere with recovery. This includes heavy lifting and strenuous workouts, sleeping on your stomach, smoking or using nicotine products, wearing underwire bras, or rushing back to your routine. 

Call now to book an appointment at Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe can answer common questions such as, "How long do breast implants last?" and can ensure you are prepared for your procedure. 

How long do breast implants last? 

Before diving into post-op care for breast augmentation in Dallas, it's good to know how long breast implants typically last. On average, they last anywhere from 10 – 20 years. However, this varies by person, and some women may need to replace their implant devices sooner due to complications or changes in their bodies. Factors like age, weight changes, pregnancy, and breastfeeding can all impact this timeline. Regular check-ups with Dr. Dauwe are also recommended to keep an eye on the health and condition of the implants. 

What to avoid after breast augmentation 

Breast augmentation has helped countless women improve a flat chest and increase cup size. However, patients should follow aftercare instructions to ensure a successful recovery. Here's what to avoid after breast augmentation in Dallas, TX:  

• Heavy lifting and strenuous workouts: Lifting anything heavier than 15 pounds will place too much strain on the chest muscles and incisions. This includes lifting children, groceries, and even pets. Instead, focus on gentle movements and light walking. 
• Sleeping on your stomach: Sleeping on your stomach or side can compress the implants and shift their position. For optimal healing, sleep on your back with your upper body slightly elevated. Try propping yourself up with pillows or using a reclining chair. 
• Smoking or using nicotine products: Nicotine restricts blood flow and slows down the natural healing response. Smoking before or after surgery can increase your risk of complications like infection, delayed wound healing, and poor scar formation. 
• Wearing underwire bras: While underwire bras offer great support, they're not ideal during recovery. The wires can irritate your incisions and interfere with the implants. Stick to soft, supportive, non-underwire bras that are made for post-surgical wear. 
• Rushing back into your routine: Even if you feel like your old self after a couple of weeks, don't assume you're healed. Listen to your body, and Dr. Dauwe will let you know when it's safe to resume regular activities. 

Can I breastfeed with breast implants? 

Many of our patients ask, "Can I breastfeed with breast implants?" In many cases, yes, especially if the implants were placed under the muscle and the nipple and milk ducts were left untouched during surgery. However, some factors, like the type of incision involved and individual anatomy, can affect milk supply. If breastfeeding is important to you after recovery, be sure to discuss your goals with Dr. Dauwe so we can plan your procedure accordingly. 

Get help navigating your recovery 

Want to enhance a flat chest or increase cup size with breast implants? Do you have questions such as "How long do breast implants last?" and "Can I breastfeed with breast implants?" Our team at Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery can help you weigh your breast augmentation options and make the ideal decision for your desired results. Call board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe to discover the benefits of breast augmentation in Dallas, TX.