Breast Reduction Surgery: What to Expect After Surgery

Posted on 19. Mar, 2009 in Surgical Procedures

Breast reduction surgery (mammoplasty) is no walk in the park, but for thousands of women, it’s the only option to lead a normal, physically healthy life. If you decide reduction surgery is the right option for you, here’s what you could expect after surgery whilst recovering.

Post-Surgery and Recovery

You should be able to be up and around almost immediately, and most patients return home the day of the surgery.  Be prepared to stay in the hospital for a day or two if your doctor advises it.  You’ll wear bandages right after the surgery as well, which can usually be removed within a couple of days; you’ll wear a surgical bra for several weeks to reduce swelling.

You must avoid heavy activities such as lifting or pushing for several weeks.  Unfortunately, washing the dishes is not generally considered a heavy activity; however, you may be able to prevail upon family members or friends to assist you while you recover from your surgery.

Stay In Contact…

Keep in touch with your doctor and wait for the go-ahead before resuming your full round of normal activities.  You’ll probably need two weeks off work, so plan ahead.  Each patient’s recovery time is different, and depends greatly on your general physical health and the extent of the breast reduction surgery performed.

It takes time to recover, and time for your body to settle into its new shape.  Swelling should be drastically reduced within a few weeks of the surgery, but sometimes swelling and bruising lingers; it all depends upon the woman and her tolerance for major surgery and her body’s ability to heal.

Complications

Serious complications from this common mammoplasty procedure are extremely rare.  Always let your physician know if you have any concerns, or believe your recovery time is taking longer than normal.

The psychological effects of breast reduction surgery can take longer to integrate into your life.  After all, you lived with a breast problem for many years; surgery changes your body overnight.  If you carry old habits of shyness, lack of confidence, or social withdrawal, now is the time you can let your true personality shine.

Symptoms

Physical symptoms of back and neck pain, shoulder pain, and tenderness from too-tight bra straps disappear.  You learn a new way to wear your clothing, and may want to splurge on a whole new wardrobe.  You also learn a new way to carry yourself when you are no longer burdened by excessive weight on the front of your body.  You will feel lighter in so many ways, literally and mentally.

Most women report that after breast reduction surgery, they are more able to participate in physical activities and feel their general health has improved significantly.  Improved social life and personal outlook lead most women to comment that their quality of life was improved by the surgery.  Even years later, women report significant gains in health and well-being.

Discuss the risks and benefits of receiving breast reduction surgery with a qualified plastic or cosmetic surgeon.

Tags: Breast Reduction