January 14, 2019 | Blog
3 minute read
If you’re considering having your breasts reduced, whether, for aesthetic or medical reasons, it’s natural for you to want to know what to expect after the procedure is complete. We have put together a breast reduction recovery timeline so you can know how you will feel after undergoing this surgery, and the time it will take you to recover. If you have other questions about, it’s always a good idea to talk to Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery in New York and find out more about a breast reduction recovery timeline.
Breast Reduction Recovery
Breast reduction surgery requires general anesthesia. During the procedure, the surgeon will have reduced your breasts and reshaped them. It can take 2-6 weeks to feel recovered from this surgery, however, the breast reduction recovery timeline varies with each patient.
Immediately After the Operation
You will have dressings on your breasts to cover the area and drainage tubes to help it heal. You may need to stay in the hospital for one or two nights after your operation, depending on reduction and the time of your operation. If discharged on the day of your operation, you will need to have somebody with you to take you home as you will not be capable to drive.
After a Few Days
Your breasts are likely to feel tender and swollen. This is a normal part of the healing process. It is likely that you will experience discomfort when raising your arms above your head. Your doctor will advise you on when you may take baths and showers, but you may need to take sponge baths during the first week and may need help in washing your hair.
Things to Do
- Take short, gentle walks as soon as you are able
- Wear a sports bra to support breasts while healing
- Support yourself with pillows to relieve pressure on your neck
Things to Avoid
- Avoid strenuous exercise, stretching, or heavy lifting
- Do not drive or operate heavy machinery
After a Few Weeks
Make a follow-up appointment with your doctor ten days to two weeks after surgery. During this appointment, doctors will monitor your progress and remove your stitches. Your breasts may still feel tender, however, it will reduce in time. Once you can wear a seatbelt without discomfort, you can drive again.
After a Few Months
Once you have undergone a breast reduction procedure, you can usually resume all your physical activities after around six weeks after surgery, depending on your healing progress. The incision marks from the surgical procedure should fade. Though the vast majority of swelling should have gone down by this point, your breasts may not yet have settled into their final shape; this can take up to a year.
Contact Us
We hope that the information in this Breast Reduction Recovery Timeline has given you a clearer picture of the healing process that this procedure entails so you can make your choice with confidence. For more information or to schedule a consultation, give Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery in New York a call.