Breast Reduction Recovery

Breast reduction surgery helps women regain not only physical comfort but also a greater sense of confidence. Having breasts that are more in line with your overall proportions can make it easier to fit into clothing, and much easier to get through the day without shoulder, neck, and back pain.

If breast reduction surgery is in your future, you may have a lot of questions. Ultimately, you want to know what to expect; what to expect from your procedure, during recovery, and what to expect in terms of the final results from your procedure. Here, we want to discuss how to make your post-surgery transition as comfortable as possible.

Get Support

Breast reduction surgery may sound less invasive or gentler than breast augmentation, during which pre-filled implants are inserted beneath breast or muscle tissue. This may be the case, but that does not mean you will sail right back into your normal activities. There are two primary ways in which support should be obtained:

• Prescribed medication. Not every patient experiences discomfort that requires prescription pain medication. However, every woman is different. We prescribe pain medication, which should be taken as a preemptive step for at least a day or two after surgery, when tissues are most “upset” by the disruption of the procedure.
• A support bra. For the first few weeks after breast reduction, patients may be advised to wear an actual surgical support bra, rather than a sports bra. The surgical bra may be easier to put on and take off, which is important even though continual wear is recommended for several days.

Self Care

Self care is an important aspect of every person’s life. After surgery, the way that you care for your body and mind can promote a better healing experience.  A few key points to remember include:

• Breast tissue and the overlying skin will be sensitive and sore for a few days. You may not feel much like showering, and that is ok! It is best to wait a day, and to then make sure you feel up to the task.
• Full recovery from breast reduction surgery can take 4 weeks. Patients should take at least 2 weeks off from work, and plan for an additional 2 weeks if necessary. Because every person is different, it can be difficult to pinpoint just how much time off you will need. More is better than not enough!
• A few weeks off of your normal exercise routine will promote healing. Pushing yourself to return to physical activity could leave you feeling drained, if not uncomfortable. When exercise is resumed after week 3, it should be light. Rigorous exercise should not resume for 4 to 6 weeks.

Call our Reno office for more information on breast reduction. (775) 826-4477