What does recovery after breast lift look like? January 25, 2023 For the first 24 hours following your breast lift Houston patients typically experience moderate chest pain and nausea due to the anesthesia used during surgery. You may also remove your surgical dressings and tubes 48 hours after surgery. After two to three days following your breast lift, you may resume showering as normal. We recommend avoiding the use of narcotic pain medication after three days. Within two weeks, you may return to work and resume low-impact daily activities and exercises, provided your breasts are supported. At this time, most of your pain and soreness will begin to subside. About 6 to 8 weeks following surgery, Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks will suggest you remove your compression garments and start to wear normal bras again. We recommend seeking out bras that do not have an underwire, as an underwire may irritate your scars. At this time, you may resume normal activities and workout routines without hesitation. Within about six months following your procedure, your breast lift scars will begin to fade, and your breasts’ final shape will begin to settle.