Working after breast augmentation/implants.

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I am an ICU nurse who is considering getting breast implants next year. I've been doing my research and found that doctors suggest to avoid heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks. Being that I am an ICU nurse and we lift heavy patients all the time, I was wondering if that means I would have to take off work for that amount of time.

Are there any nurses here that have had breast implants in the past and had to face this same issue? And what are your experiences? All comments are appreciated.

Thanks!

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Specializes in Emergency.

I currently work in an ED with at least a dozen or so ladies whom have had that procedure. 75% are bedside nurses like myself. Being male I dont know what that is going to feel like. I can tell you the longest any have been off is 2 weeks, but most were back in a week doing what we do. I think the last one was always asking for someone to do her lifting though.

Rj

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I had breast augmentation when I was working LTC. I was back to work in 1 week. I was pushing my med cart, transferring pts. and all my other duties. Good luck with your surgery. I have never regretted it. My self esteem and confidence has greatly improved since my surgery.

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I had the opposite done...breast reduction. But, still the same part of the body. From what I understand a reduction is far more invasive than augmentation (I have NEVER considered augmentation. :chuckle... unfortunately, I got more than my share) but I can't imagine having gone back to work with all the pushing, pulling, etc earlier than a month post-op.

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Specializes in Plastic surgery and Med/surg.
I am an ICU nurse who is considering getting breast implants next year. I've been doing my research and found that doctors suggest to avoid heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks. Being that I am an ICU nurse and we lift heavy patients all the time, I was wondering if that means I would have to take off work for that amount of time.

Are there any nurses here that have had breast implants in the past and had to face this same issue? And what are your experiences? All comments are appreciated.

Thanks!

I actually work with plastic surgery as a post-op nurse and what I have found with breast augmentation and implants is that you ladies jump back pretty fast. It really depends on your body and how quickly it heals. I have been around other people that I work with and they were back to work in as little as 1-2 weeks, not 4-6 weeks. If you do not feel ready, then don't do it. (lifting of patients) Just make sure you have a doctor's note to give to your boss if you have to have light duty. The ultimate decision is between you and your doctor. Good luck to you.

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Specializes in Operating Room, Med-Surg, Home Care.

Hi Twilight-

Some implants are placed below the muscle and some above. There are different approaches that can be used to place the implants, such as an incision under the breast, axillary, thru a tunnel in the abdomen, or around the areola. Ask your plastic surgeon howthis would influence the healing time. Naturally you will want to use the approach that will give you the best cosmetic result. Silicone implants require a larger incision than saline implants, because the saline ones are filled after they are put into position. Take your time to consult with different plastic surgeons and get the best result..........Suzanne

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Specializes in NICU Level III.

i got them earlier this year and went back to work after 5 days. however, i was supposed to be on for 4 nights and called in the last two. i don't think the darvocet got out of my system even though i stopped taking it 2 days before returning to work because i still felt cloudy. it was a little painful, but not too bad..then again i'm in NICU!

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Specializes in L & D; Postpartum.
Just make sure you have a doctor's note to give to your boss if you have to have light duty.

Be sure to check with your employer as to IF they even will let you do light duty. Due to a nurse or two in ours who completely abused that whole idea, it's full on work status or not at all. I had a reduction, which has made a world of difference for me, but had to be ready for a full work assignment before I returned. Of course, most times you can work things out with your co-workers, if you're one who has done that for others in the past. Good luck.

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Specializes in My son...for now..

I got implants last year and felt great in about 5 days.. I did take it easy on lifting as I was sore when I lifted.....

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