Breast Reduction: What to Expect After Surgery

Breast reduction surgery (also known as reduction mammaplasty) removes excess breast tissue and excess skin from the breasts to improve the appearance and help with any back, shoulder, or neck pain you may be feeling. It can also be used to help with skin irritation in the breast crease and with any self-consciousness you might feel due to your breast size.

Oftentimes, a breast reduction is combined with a breast lift to create the ideal placement and shape for your body.
But what about after the surgery? What do you need to do to ensure the best possible results? Let’s take a look at the dos and donts of breast reduction recovery.

What Should I Avoid After Breast Reduction Surgery?

At the start of your breast reduction surgery recovery, you’ll want to rest as much as possible. You’ll also want to ensure there is someone watching over you for the first 24 hours after surgery.
During most of your breast reduction recovery process, you will need to avoid any strenuous activity. If your work is sedentary, you can likely return to work after a week, but if it’s a job that is more physical, you’ll need to take at least 7-10 days off.
After the surgery, you’ll also want to avoid alcohol, recreational drugs, and any blood thinning medication.
If you have questions about activity or medications, contact your surgeon to find out what is approved based on where you are in the recovery process.

Day-to-Day Recovery

During your recovery from breast reduction surgery, you may feel tired and sore. You may also feel some pulling or stretching in your breast area. You will be prescribed pain medication and should take it as needed. You can use ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort. Sleeping propped up will also help.

Your daily routine should include wearing the surgical bra provided by your surgeon. Wear this until advised otherwise.
Despite the feeling of weakness, you will want to do some light activities to help with circulation and healing. Even just walking around the house will help. And as you feel stronger, you can do more and more activities. That being said, don’t overexert yourself. Rest when you feel tired.

You’ll want to avoid lifting heavy things for the first 2-3 weeks. This includes heavy groceries, backpacks, and even your child.
Additionally, you’ll want to eat healthy foods and drink plenty of fluids. It will help the healing process.
As for bathing, you will want to avoid baths for at least 4 weeks or until your surgeon informs you it is okay.
Additionally, if you have drains, your surgeon will explain how to take care of them.

Physical Activity

Strenuous activities like high-intensity exercise, jogging, and lifting weights should be avoided. You don’t want to pull your stitches or open your incision by moving too much. You will need to avoid lifting your arms above your head as well.
Light activities are all that is allowed, especially in those first few weeks. Your doctor will give you some stretches and light exercises you can do.

Schedule A Consultation

Interested in learning more about breast reduction surgery? Dr. Cruise and the experienced staff at Cruise Plastic Surgery can answer any questions and address any concerns you may have. To schedule a consultation today, call our Newport Beach, CA office at (949) 446-1421 or use our online scheduling form.