Breast Reduction Recovery
Recovery Time After Breast Reduction Surgery
Summary: This article covers the breast reduction recovery period, including tips to reduce swelling after surgery and the benefits of compression garments as healing aids.
Breast reduction is performed with general anesthesia. When you wake up, you will feel tired, groggy, and sore. Confusion or nausea are common side effects of the anesthesia. In most cases, a compression garment or surgical gauze will already be placed over the breasts before you wake up from surgery to help with your breast reduction recovery.
After you wake up, it is time to focus on the healing process. You will probably have sutures and fluid drainage tubes, both of which will be removed in about a week. It is important not to disturb the incisions or sutures during this time. Sleeping may be difficult following surgery. Use several pillows to keep your head and chest elevated, and do not sleep on your stomach until the area has healed. Breast reduction recovery patients often find bathing difficult, as they must wait until the sutures have been removed and cannot lift the arms above the head. You may want to arrange for a friend or hairstylist to help you wash your hair for the first few weeks.
Because breast reduction is a surgical procedure, patients should expect some scarring, although the size, position, and appearance of scars varies from patient to patient. The incision required during the breast reduction procedure depends on the amount of tissue being removed, among other factors. Over time, these incisions should fade into the surrounding skin.
Common side effects during the breast reduction recovery period include discomfort, redness, bruising, reduced nipple sensitivity, and swelling. You can expect the breasts to be very tender and sore, especially for the first few days. Pain medication can keep the discomfort you feel under control. It is normal to have dull pain continuing for several weeks after surgery. These side effects should begin to subside within a day or two of your procedure.
Tips to Reduce Swelling after Breast Reduction Surgery
Many patients find that post-operative swelling obscures the results of their surgery for up to a month. This swelling may even cause the breasts to look misshapen. Swelling will subside gradually as the breast tissue heals, although there are a few ways to speed the breast reduction recovery process. Here are a few tips to reduce swelling after breast reduction:
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
- Maintain a proper, low-sodium diet
- Get plenty of rest and ease into daily activities gradually
- Avoid medications that may interfere with the recovery process. Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking.
Breast Reduction Compression Garments
A compression garment must be worn over the breasts at all times for the first few weeks after breast reduction. The purpose of this surgical garment is to reduce the recovery time by controlling swelling, bruising, and other side effects. It also holds the breast tissue in place, allowing it to become accustomed to the new contours. During breast reduction recovery, it is important to avoid underwire bras or those that do not provide enough support for the breasts.
Breast Reduction Healing Time
Most patients plan to take one to two weeks away from work and other obligations to recover following breast reduction surgery. For the first few days, you will need help completing your daily activities. Gradually, you may ease back into your normal routine, although actions such as lifting your arms above your head, heavy lifting, or bending over should be restricted. Strenuous exercise must be avoided for six weeks.
The amount of tissue removed and the length of incisions can affect the healing time. The breasts may not settle into their final shape, size, and position for up to six months, although the initial results of the procedure will be apparent within a week or two. Following breast reduction, the breasts will appear smaller, lighter, and less droopy than before surgery. However, weight gain, pregnancy, and aging can cause further changes in the size or appearance of the breasts.
