- Breast augmentation recovery occurs in stages.
- In the first few days, swelling, tightness, and discomfort are common but gradually subside.
- Final results are generally assessed around the one-year mark, once implants have fully settled and scars have matured.
The weeks and months after breast augmentation in Singapore are a gradual period of recovery and adjustment. While healing timelines follow general patterns, individual experiences can differ.
What physical changes are normal at each stage, and when should you check in with your surgeon? How much downtime might you need, and what can support your recovery? Read on to find out.
Understanding Breast Augmentation Surgery in Singapore
Breast augmentation is a commonly performed cosmetic procedure in Singapore, especially among women aged 18 to 34. It can increase breast size, restore volume after weight changes or pregnancy, or improve visible asymmetry.
The operation usually takes one to two hours and is performed under general anaesthesia.
What Breast Augmentation Surgery in Singapore Involves
During the surgery, your plastic surgeon places saline or silicone implants behind the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle through a small incision under the breast, around the areola, or through the armpit.
Factors That Affect Recovery and Results
Several factors influence breast augmentation surgery in Singapore recovery and outcomes:
- Implant Placement: Under-the-muscle placement often causes early tightness and a longer initial recovery compared with placement over the muscle.
- Incision Location: Areolar and underarm incisions may take longer to settle or be more noticeable post-procedure.
- Your Body's Natural Healing Ability: Age, overall health, and whether you smoke can affect the speed of your recovery.
- Following Post-Operative Instructions: Following your surgeon’s guidance supports normal healing and reduces the risk of delays or complications.
- Physical Activity Level: Physically demanding jobs or lifestyles often require longer downtime after breast augmentation.
Considering breast augmentation in Singapore? Book a consultation at Argent Plastic Surgery to get started.
Healing Timeline After Getting Breast Implants
While everyone heals differently post-breast surgery, most patients follow these recovery stages.
Day 0-3: First 72 hours
Sensations & Physical Changes
- You may feel groggy as the anaesthesia wears off.
- You will likely notice tightness and soreness across your chest.
- Any type of movement may feel moderately to significantly uncomfortable.
- Your breasts may appear swollen, higher, fuller, and firmer than expected.
Care & Activity Guidance
- Rest as much as possible.
- Take prescribed pain medication as directed.
- Sleep on your back with your upper body elevated to help reduce swelling.
Clinical Follow-Up & Support
- Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours.
Week 1
Sensations & Physical Changes
- Discomfort often shifts from sharper sensations to a dull ache.
- You may rely less on prescription pain medication.
- Swelling usually persists, with breasts still sitting higher than their final position.
- Mild stiffness or sensitivity around the chest and incisions is common
Sensations & Physical Changes
- You may return to light, sedentary work after five to seven days if you feel comfortable.
- Continue wearing your surgical bra.
- Avoid heavy lifting, overhead reaching, and strenuous activity.
Clinical Follow-Up & Review
- Attend a scheduled follow-up appointment so your surgeon can assess healing and check your incisions.
Weeks 2-4
Sensations & Physical Changes
- You may notice continued improvement in comfort and daily movement.
- Chest tightness may start to ease as your muscles and skin adapt.
- Swelling continues to reduce, though your breasts may still appear larger or higher than their final shape.
- You may notice early signs of implant settling, which can feel uneven at times.
Care & Activity Guidance
- Continue to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting.
- Transition to a supportive sports bra if your surgeon approves.
Clinical Follow-Up & Review
- Your surgeon continues to monitor healing during scheduled reviews.
Weeks 4-6
Sensations & Physical Changes
- You may experience little to no pain during routine activities.
- Your energy levels improve, and moving feels easier.
- Your breasts continue to soften and take on a more defined shape.
- Sensation changes may begin to improve, though some numbness or sensitivity can persist.
Care & Activity Guidance
- Resume light exercise, such as walking or gentle cardio, if cleared.
- Avoid chest-focused exercises until your surgeon advises otherwise.
Clinical Follow-Up & Review
- Follow guidance on activity progression based on how you’re healing.
Month 3-6
Sensations & Physical Changes
- Most swelling has usually settled by this stage.
- Your breast shape and position become more consistent.
- Implants often feel softer and more natural.
- Scars continue to fade and soften over time.
Care & Activity Guidance
- Resume full exercise routines once cleared.
- Wear underwire bras and fitted clothing more comfortably again.
Clinical Follow-Up & Review
- Attend follow-up reviews, if advised, based on your recovery.
Months 6-12
Sensations & Physical Changes
- Any remaining swelling continues to settle.
- Your breast shape and position stabilise further.
- Scars mature gradually, often becoming lighter and flatter.
- Sensation largely returns, though some lasting changes are possible.
Care & Activity Guidance
- Continue scar care if advised.
Clinical Follow-Up & Review
- Review your results with your surgeon around the one-year mark.
What to Expect After Breast Augmentation in Singapore
Sensation Changes
Temporary changes in sensation are common. You may experience numbness, tingling, or heightened sensitivity around your nipples as your nerves stretch or temporarily lose function during surgery. These sensations will return gradually.
Wound Care
Your surgeon will provide specific aftercare instructions, but the gist is: keep your incisions clean and dry.
Dissolvable sutures or surgical glue are typically used in breast augmentation surgeries, so you likely won’t need to have stitches removed. Surgical tape or adhesive strips should remain in place until they fall off naturally or are removed by your surgeon.
Once the incisions have fully closed and your surgeon confirms it is safe, you may begin scar care. This includes applying silicone gel or sheets to the treated area. Scars usually evolve gradually in colour and texture over time.
Support Bras and Garments
Support garments help stabilise healing tissue and reduce swelling. You’ll wear a surgical bra or compression garment immediately after surgery, transitioning to supportive, non-underwire bras as advised.
Underwire bras are typically avoided early in recovery because they can irritate healing areas. Front-closure bras are often easier to manage when movement is limited.
Sleep Positions
Adjusting how you sleep and move will require planning. In the early stages, sleeping on your back with your upper body elevated can reduce pressure on healing tissue.
As recovery progresses, you may gradually return to other sleep positions, based on your comfort and surgeon’s guidance.
Expected Downtime
The downtime after breast augmentation in Singapore depends on how physically demanding your work and routine are. Some people return to desk-based tasks quickly; others may need more time before resuming full activity.
Warning Signs To Look Out For After Surgery
Contact your surgeon promptly if you experience any of the following:
- Fever above 38.5°C
- Increasing redness, warmth, or swelling
- Unusual or foul-smelling incision drainage
- Severe pain that does not improve or suddenly worsens
- Marked changes in breast shape beyond expected swelling
- Incisions opening or separating
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Excessive bleeding soaking through dressings
Seek Professional Advice from Argent Plastic Surgery
Recovery after breast augmentation in Singapore requires time, care, and a doctor who looks out for your well-being.
At Argent Plastic Surgery, we support you throughout your journey — from the initial consultation through recovery and follow-up care.
Book a consultation today to discuss your options.