24-48 Hours After Surgery

The initial 24 to 48 hours after your breast lift or tummy tuck surgery is when you will feel the majority of pain and discomfort. You will experience swelling and tenderness during your recovery period. After about a week of healing you should be able to resume light activities.

General Anaesthesia

Your abdominoplasty and breast lift surgery are performed under general anaesthesia either in hospital or a fully accredited private surgical facility. Your anaesthesia is given by a physician who holds a specialty certification in anaesthesia from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons (Canada).

Abdominoplasty Recovery

About the Surgery
An abdominoplasty typically takes three hours, depending on the extent of work required. An incision is made along the bikini line, just above the pubic area. A second incision is required to free the navel from the surrounding tissue.

  

Post-operative Abdominoplasty
After your surgery, you will have drains in place to drain fluid from the surgical site. The drains will be removed when drainage has slowed or stopped. For the first one to two weeks, your abdomen will likely be swollen. Discomfort will be controlled by medication. You will have a gauze dressing on your abdomen, covered by an abdominal compression garment. Patients typically wear this for 6 weeks. Sutures are removed at approximately ten days.

When Can I Go Back to Work?
You may expect to go back to work within one to two weeks, depending on the level of activity required for your job. During the first three to six months your incision will be pink and raised. It may take up to one year before your scars flatten and fade.

Mastopexy (Breast Lift) Recovery

About the Surgery
A mastopexy or breast lift is also performed under general anaesthesia, and the procedure usually takes three hours. Dr. Niessen uses an anchor-shaped incision following the contour of the breast, or an incision around the edge of the areola. A mastopexy does leave scars, although they are usually covered by your bra or bathing suit.

  

Post-operative Breast Lift
Post-operatively, you will have a supportive dressing. Your breasts will be swollen for 5-7 days. You will be given a prescription for a pain medication. Within 7-10 days, your dressing will be removed and you will be able to wear a bra.

When Can I Go Back to Work?
Although you may be active in a day or two, you may be off work for a week, depending on how you feel. Patients should avoid lifting anything over their head and playing strenuous sports for two weeks. One month after your surgery, you may resume your regular activities.