The day was finally here—the day I had been dreaming, researching, and planning for:
breast augmentation surgery day.
Despite all my excitement, the nerves were very real that morning. But I reminded myself of something I’d been telling others for years as a nurse and mom: “You can be nervous and ready at the same time.” So, with a pounding heart and an oversized zip-up, I headed into one of the most exciting and vulnerable days of my life.
🌅 The Morning of Surgery
I woke up at 5:20 AM, showered with Hibiclens as instructed (no deodorant or lotion allowed), and got dressed in my surgery day uniform:
- Oversized zip-up sweater
- Baggy sweatpants
- Comfy socks + slippers
- Braided hair (so I wouldn’t have to mess with it post-op)
Let me tell you—two French braids were a smart move. No brushing, no tangles, and no fuss for a few days while I healed.
I had washed my hair the night before and skipped all makeup, jewelry, and perfume. Just clean, simple, and ready to go.
🏥 Arrival at the Surgery Center
I arrived at Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery at 7:00 AM sharp for my 8:00 AM surgery time. Just walking through the doors, I felt a mix of anticipation and excitement—and honestly, a little disbelief that I was finally doing this.
The same sweet nurse from my pre-op appointment came to bring me back. First, I did a quick urine test (to confirm I wasn’t pregnant), then changed into my glamorous hospital gown and hair net.
We took “before” photos for my chart, reviewed all my surgical consents, and she placed my IV and started fluids. At this point, the nerves were real, but the team made me feel so at ease.
🧠 Meeting the Anesthesiologist
When the anesthesiologist came in, she walked me through everything she’d be doing:
- What meds she would give
- Prophylactic anti-nausea medication
- That I’d be intubated and could have a sore throat after
- Waking-up process post-surgery
She also gave me some great post-op tips, like eating a bland diet for a few days to prevent nausea and taking things slow. After signing the final consents, I was just waiting for one more person—Dr. Mitchell.
✍️ Surgical Markings & Go-Time
Dr. Mitchell came in, reviewed his notes, made some markings on my chest for the surgery, and answered my last-minute questions. He was calm, kind, and totally professional—everything you want right before going under.
A few minutes before 8:00 AM, it was go-time. They walked me into the OR, helped me onto the surgical table, and started hooking up the monitors.
The anesthesiologist gave me the first meds and placed the oxygen mask over my face.
And that’s it.
Lights out.
💉 Waking Up in Post-Op
I woke up uncomfortable but stable. My chest felt tight and so heavy. I was trying to focus on deep breathing, knowing how important it is post-op—but honestly, even breathing hurt.
The nurse gave me some of my prescribed muscle relaxers, and within a short time, I was feeling a little more human. They called my husband to let him know I was ready to go home soon.
They helped me get dressed, wheeled me out to the car, and just like that—I was on my way home by 10:05 AM.
Yep, surgery and post-op recovery went way faster than I expected!
🚗 The Ride Home & First Few Hours
The car ride home was rough. I was in pain and super uncomfortable, but as soon as I got in the truck, I took my pain meds and anti-inflammatories, and by the time we pulled into the driveway, I felt 100x better.
When we got home:
- I was wearing my surgical bra with gauze over my incisions
- I had no drains, which I was super thankful for
- I climbed into bed, propped myself up with pillows, and took a nap
And when I woke up?
I felt like a brand new woman—just one with breast implants now 😄
🛌 First 48 Hours Post-Op
I was definitely sore and swollen, but honestly? The pain was manageable.
I took it super easy—sleeping, relaxing, and binge-watching Dexter (10/10 recommend for recovery days).
Huge shoutout to my husband who set alarms and kept me on track with my meds. Staying ahead of the pain in those first 48 hours made all the difference.
A Few Post-Op Tips from Me to You:
- Eat & drink even if you don’t feel like it—your body needs it to heal.
- Stay propped up and don’t fight the naps.
- Keep your meds on a schedule and ask for help when you need it.
- The tightness and soreness are normal—it will pass!
💬 What’s Next?
My first 24 hours post-op were filled with emotions, gratitude, and (honestly) relief. After dreaming about this for so long, I was finally on the other side—and already so happy I made the leap.
👉 Coming Up in Part 4…
Next up in the series, I’ll share Week 1 of recovery:
How I managed pain, sleep, and mobility… what I could (and couldn’t) do… and what surprised me the most about my brand-new chest.
💗 Have you had surgery before?
What helped you feel prepared and supported afterward? Or are you thinking about breast augmentation and wondering what to expect?
👇 Drop your questions or stories in the comments below—I’d love to connect and support you through your journey too!
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