Returning to Work After Breast Surgery: Tips and Advice for Getting Back to Work

Will I need time off after surgery?

Yes, everyone needs time off after breast surgery, and although breast enlargement, breast reduction and breast lifts are some of the most common types of cosmetic surgery in the UK, they are still serious operations. For at least the first week, you will need to rest to give yourself the best chance of a speedy and smooth recovery. 

Many women tend to book a fortnight off before returning to work after breast surgery. However, if you are healing well and your job doesn’t involve any strenuous activity or heavy lifting, you may be able to return to work after seven or 10 days with your surgeon’s approval. 

How long does it take to recover from breast surgery?

You will feel some pain and discomfort during the first week, although it will be most acute in the first few days after the procedure. There’s also likely to be swelling and bruising in the chest area which can last for up to two weeks. 

The recovery time can differ slightly depending on the type of breast surgery you have. Although a breast lift does not affect the underlying muscle, the incisions are typically larger than those required for breast enlargement. Therefore, we usually advise patients to take two weeks off work. By the end of that second week, you should be less sore and able to move normally. The initial recovery period is usually over after about six to eight weeks after a breast lift. 

The recovery process after breast implants tends to be a bit quicker. We would expect you to take at least a week off work and the initial recovery period to last around six weeks. After both procedures, you should not do any strenuous activity or heavy lifting until at least week eight, and it can take up to 12 months for the body to be fully healed and the breasts to settle into their final shape.

Tips for returning to work after breast surgery

Plan ahead

All workplaces have different policies around staff holidays. If you’re a teacher, for example, then planning your breast surgery for the start of the summer holidays is likely to be your best option. You should also confirm the date of your surgery before booking your leave so you know there’s a date available with your chosen surgeon. We also advise you to book more time off rather than less, as you wouldn’t want to return to work before you’re ready and jeopardise your recovery.  

Consider adjustments

It might be possible to make a few adjustments for your return to work. For example, if you have a desk job, your boss might be happy for you to work from home for a week or two until you feel more comfortable. If your work is physically demanding or involves heavy lifting, discuss whether there are any temporary adjustments you can make to help you work without causing pain and discomfort or jeopardising your recovery. 

Refresh your wardrobe

You’ll also need to think about your clothing options when returning to work after breast surgery. Most surgeons recommend you wear a compression garment for four to six weeks after the surgery, and you may feel conscious about people noticing it. In that case, wearing clothing with a thicker fabric and choosing a compression garment in a nude shade will help. Loose but comfortable outfits are usually best for the first few weeks. After that, you may find your old clothes no longer fit properly, so it might be time for a wardrobe update. 

Keep moving

You may be able to return to work more quickly after surgery if you have a desk job, but you should still stay mobile and take regular breaks to walk around. Sitting for too long in one position can add to the swelling and increase the risk of a blood clot. That said, you should still listen to your body and get plenty of rest to avoid overdoing it. 

Adapt your routine

Even at work, there are simple steps you can take to enhance your recovery. Drinking plenty of water, eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of sleep, avoiding underwired bras and stopping smoking and vaping for at least two weeks after the procedure will reduce the risk of complications and help you get back on track. Here are a few other lifestyle changes to consider after breast augmentation.  

Should I tell my colleagues about the procedure?

‘When can I go back to work after breast implants?’ is a common query from our patients. Another worry is what they should tell their colleagues. Most of our patients typically tell a few trusted colleagues and their boss about the procedure. That way, they have some support at work, and their boss understands why they might need to make certain adjustments. 

However, who you should tell depends on your workplace dynamic and how comfortable you feel around your team. If you don’t plan to tell everyone, you certainly shouldn’t feel bad about it, but it is worth getting your story straight before you return. 

Back to work guidance from the Enhance Medical Group

At Enhance Medical Group, we are with you every step of the way, from your first consultation to your return to work and beyond. Comprehensive aftercare is included in the quoted surgery price and we are always on hand to answer your questions. We also provide a sick note for one to two weeks following your procedure.

Find out more about breast surgery with the Enhance Medical Group, book a free consultation and follow us on Instagram for breast surgery tips, articles, before and after pictures and more.