Below are some guidelines for what you can expect after surgery. While every patient is different, these are the most common post-surgical recommendations. If you have questions at any time, please contact Dr. Markus's office. Your emotional and physical well being are our primary concern.

Day of Surgery

• When you wake up in the recovery room, your breasts will be padded and bandaged.
  
• You cannot shower or disturb the dressings after surgery.
  
• You must limit your arm motions to avoid straining, this means no lifting, and you should be careful with activities like brushing your hair.
  
• You may use the bathroom only with assistance.
  
• You will have drainage tubes placed beneath the breasts to help prevent fluid from accumulating. A nurse will teach you how to manage the drains and how to empty them once you go home. When you go home, you will need to empty the drainage tubes every four hours. (You will be asked to record the amount of drainage and to bring this record with you on your next office visit.)
  
• You may feel discomfort when you cough or move around, but most of the discomfort can be controlled with medication prescribed by Dr. Markus.

The First Week

• Three to six days after surgery, Dr. Markus will remove any surgical drains and will change the dressings. He will also teach you how to change the dressings yourself.
  
• Dr. Markus will let you know when you may shower.
  
• You may notice some bruising, swelling, and discomfort, but they should diminish over the next few weeks. (If you believe the discomfort or swelling is unusual, please contact Dr. Markus's office.)
  
• You can begin to move around comfortably and return to non-strenuous activities. You must avoid all heaving lifting or straining for several weeks.
  
• Dr. Markus recommends that you do not drive for 7 to 10 days after surgery.
  
• You may tire easily after surgery, so allow for adequate rest periods and allow yourself time for a complete recovery.
  
• You will wear a bra day and night for two months.
  
• Plan to return to work 1 to 2 weeks following surgery.

The Following Months

• To aid the healing process, you should not wear an underwire bra for three months after surgery.
  
• Dr. Markus will advise you on when you may return to your exercise program. In most cases, this is about 4 to 6 weeks after surgery.
  
• Incision lines will fade.