Is There a Best Time to Get Breast Augmentation Surgery? Let us Explain:


People often ask, “when is the best time to get breast augmentation surgery?”

While the best time to get breast augmentation surgery is when you are ready, some people want to time their surgery to fully recover before bathing suit season, a tropical vacation, or a big event like a wedding or class reunion.

Since people are not exactly the same, this article isn’t a substitute for individualized advice from a skilled professional. Talk with a board-certified plastic surgeon or cosmetic professional about your goals, needs, and ideal timeline.

When Is The Best Time To Get a Breast Augmentation

If your goal is to look your best by summer, the best time for breast augmentation surgery is usually winter. It often takes several months before you are healed, the swelling goes down, and your full results are apparent. The main reason is so you are healed by summer and can enjoy your active lifestyle, wearing a swimming suit or revealing summer clothing.

Also, during the colder winter months, it is easier to hide any swelling under sweaters and loose-fitting clothing. While healing, you want to limit sun exposure. This is also easier during the winter. This is why it’s the best time of the year to get breast implants.

Some also have extra time off from work or college during the winter holiday season. By strategically scheduling your augmentation surgery, you can use this extra time off as part of your healing downtime and use fewer vacation days or flexible paid leave.

While winter may be ideal for many, this varies by person. Consider your own goals and needs and discuss those with your provider.

Questions to Ask to Determine the Right Time for Your Breast Augmentation

Take a moment and ask yourself the following questions. There are no wrong answers; just be honest with yourself. Be sure and discuss your goals with your provider:

  • When is the best time to get a breast augmentation
  • Do you have any upcoming events you won’t fully enjoy unless you are healed? Examples include a child’s graduation, a class reunion, your wedding, or maybe just a beach trip.
  • Are you planning on conceiving a child within the next year or so? Talk with your provider if that is the case.
  • When are the busiest times for your work? When will it be difficult to take time off to recuperate? Are there best times to take time off?
  • What are your family obligations like? Is there a time when it is easier to scale back for recovery?
  • Do you engage in any seasonal activities or sports? While many people may prefer their surgery during the winter, you may prefer fall or spring if you are a skiing enthusiast.
  • When can you enjoy a little downtime?

Be sure and ask your surgeon about the recovery process. You will likely need to temporarily stop certain activities while you heal. Understanding what is involved may help you plan and identify the best time to get breast augmentation surgery.

While healing and recovery vary, here is a general outline of the breast augmentation healing process:

  • The first 4 to 6 weeks: You experience the most dramatic healing during the first few weeks. Certain activities are usually limited for your own protection. Avoid swimming, soaking in hot tubs, or bathing due to an increased risk of infection. During the first couple of weeks after your operation, you may need to avoid vigorous exercise. You are at increased risk of bleeding and swelling.
  • Around three months: Your breasts will primarily be healed, and you can resume many of your normal activities. Swelling may be decreasing, so you can see what cup size you are settling into. You may continue to experience some sensations of tenderness, tingling, etc. Talk with your doctor about what to expect. Most are also adapting to the changes in their body and self-image. This may be an exciting time for most who love their results.
  • 6-9 months: During this period, some people continue to feel sensations like tingling, possibly shooting pains, hypersensitivity, or even numbness. Keep your doctor informed of any concerning symptoms.
  • One year: Most people are completely healed, though you may still have a scar that has faded over the previous months.

As the timeline indicates, many people want to get their breast augmentation around six months before an adventure vacation, big event, or swimming or skiing season. Some may be happy planning their surgery three months before a big event since most of the healing will be complete, and they can better enjoy their new physique.

In summary, when planning the best time to get breast augmentation surgery, consider the following and make a plan:

  • How long will your recovery period likely take? Plan your procedure when you can arrange suitable downtime for healing.
  • Learn about the common timeframe for recovery and which activities you will need to limit at each stage.
  • Pre-schedule all of your pre-operative and post-operative appointments.
  • Consider any practical considerations during the first few weeks or months following the procedure. This isn’t the time to spend a week at the beach since swimming is too risky.
  • Stock up on easy-to-prepare foods or arrange for someone else to handle grocery shopping and other chores involving lifting over 35 pounds.
  • Plan a comfortable recovery space for the first couple of weeks. Including setting up your bed for the optimal sleeping position, updating your Netflix queue, dedicating a space for your pain medicine and any personal care items you will need.
  • Plan ahead so you can heal and experience the full results in time for any important social events or in time to enjoy your favorite seasonal activities.

Next Steps: Schedule a Consultation

Schedule an appointment with a professional to learn more about breast augmentation surgery and how to plan to optimize your recovery.

Charlotte Plastic Surgery has been treating Charlotte area residents for over 70 years. We find satisfaction in helping people look and feel their best. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.