BPCS December 9, 2025

Breast lift recovery is a process that unfolds in stages, with each phase involving different levels of activity, healing, and care.

A breast lift is considered a surgical procedure that requires careful attention in the weeks and months afterwards, and while the overall timeline is relatively consistent, every patient will heal slightly differently.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what the recovery period involves, how long it generally takes, and what patients can expect at different points along the way.

How long does a breast lift recovery usually take?

Breast lift recovery tends to be broken down into short-term and longer-term phases. The initial recovery phase usually lasts around one to two weeks, where rest and wound care are the primary focus. After this stage, most patients can return to

light daily activities, though they’ll still need to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.

By around six weeks, many patients will generally notice a significant improvement in comfort and mobility, and most of the external healing has taken place. However, the deeper internal tissues can take longer to fully heal, and this is why surgeons generally recommend being cautious with certain activities even after about six weeks. For some patients, it can take several months for swelling to fully resolve and for their body to feel completely recovered.

What is normal to experience within the first few days after a breast lift?

Straight after the procedure, patients are usually monitored in the surgical facility before going home to complete their recovery. In this early stage, rest is essential, but it won’t necessarily mean lying completely still for too long.

Once you feel able, light walking around the house is often encouraged to keep blood circulating and to reduce the risk of complications such as blood clots.

Dressings are often placed cover the incisions, and in some cases, surgical drains may be placed to remove excess fluid, which are generally removed within the first week. The breasts are also usually supported with a surgical bra or compression garment, which helps to manage swelling and keep the tissues supported as they heal.

Discomfort, bruising, and swelling are very common during this time. Surgeons will typically provide pain management strategies and guidance on caring for the incisions, including when showering is allowed and how to keep the area clean.

When can patients return to work and daily activities?

Many patients can return to non-strenuous work within about one to two weeks, depending on the nature of their work. Those with more physically demanding roles may need longer before they can resume their normal workload.

Daily activities, such as walking around the house, preparing light meals, or driving short distances, are often manageable within the first couple of weeks. That said, lifting heavy items, bending repeatedly, or stretching the arms overhead should be avoided for a little longer. These movements can put unnecessary strain on the healing incisions and tissues.

What changes occur over the first six weeks?

The first six weeks generally represent the most active part of the healing process. During this time, swelling and bruising are usually most noticeable at the beginning and then gradually subside. Incisions also begin to close and form scars, which will continue to fade and soften over several months.

Patients often notice that their energy levels improve by the third or fourth week, allowing them to move around more freely and resume activities such as light household tasks or returning to office-based work. By the six-week point, the breasts are generally well supported and healing steadily, though the tissues are still adapting and should not be put under unnecessary stress.

When will swelling fully go down?

Swelling is a normal part of breast lift recovery, and while a large portion of it decreases within the first six weeks, it can take several months for the swelling to fully resolve. The timeline varies between patients, because factors like the extent of the surgery, how the body naturally heals, and aftercare instructions can all make a difference.

Surgeons usually recommend wearing a supportive bra for a few weeks or potentially longer, as this helps to control swelling and gives the tissues additional support during the healing process. It’s also common for swelling to fluctuate slightly day to day, particularly in the early weeks.

What follow-up care is involved during recovery?

To monitor how the healing process is progressing, surgeons will typically schedule multiple follow-up appointments. The first is usually within the first week, when any drains can be removed and the incisions checked. Additional follow-ups occur over the coming weeks and months to ensure that the tissues are healing as expected.

These appointments are also the time for patients to ask questions about their activity levels, wound care, and scar management. Following this guidance is important, as it ensures the recovery continues to progress without unnecessary complications.

What can patients expect long term?

Although most of the active recovery happens in the first six to eight weeks, the body continues to heal in the months afterwards.

By about three to six months, patients will usually find that swelling has almost completely subsided, scars are beginning to

fade, and the breasts feel more settled into their new position.

Full recovery, where all tissues are fully healed and scars have matured, can take up to a year. During this time, patients are usually advised to keep monitoring their breasts, continue wearing supportive bras when needed, and attend any scheduled follow-up appointments.

Breast lift recovery is a gradual process that requires rest, patience, and adherence to aftercare guidance. The stages of recovery, from the first few days of rest, to returning to work, and eventually reintroducing exercise, each make a difference in supporting long-term healing.

Brisbane Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery: Personalised breast lift recovery advice with Dr Richardson

If you’re thinking about having a breast lift, the first step in your surgical journey will be a consultation process with Dr Philip Richardson.

During your consultation, you will receive more personalised advice, carefully considering your personal needs and how factors such as your health or lifestyle will need to be factored into the planning for your recovery period.

Once you’re ready to schedule your consultation, please feel free to contact our team at Brisbane Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery.

More reading about breast lift mastopexy:

What Is The Recovery Time for A Breast Lift, And What To Expect?