Many women get breast reduction surgery to ease the weight and size of their breasts. A large chest size can cause health problems such as backaches and inflammation, and many clinics offer this surgery to assist in this reduction.
Many women who feel uncomfortable with the size of their breasts also opt for this surgery for aesthetic reasons, to feel more confident and pleased with their breasts.
The cost of this procedure depends on the patient’s surgical operation; however, breast reduction surgery costs range from $1,500 to $3,000.
Breast reduction surgery recovery is a major part of the operation, which many will consider when choosing this surgery. But first, we must look at what is breast reduction surgery.
What is the breast reduction surgery procedure?
In breast reduction surgery costs, surgeons remove any excess fat in the breast to reduce its size. By taking out this fat, the breasts look smaller. Breast reduction surgery is typically carried out under general anesthetic, where patients are put to sleep for the duration of the procedure.
Whether for aesthetic or health reasons, there are two typical ways to undergo this breast reduction surgery: reduction through open surgery or Liposuction.
The length of breast reduction surgery lasts around 2 to 3 hours long. Surgeons will move the nipple to its new position, remove excess fat and skin, and reshape the breast tissue.
There is no age limit to getting breast reduction surgery, but women must consider if their breasts have fully grown or would like to breastfeed in the future.
Breast reduction surgery recovery
7 Tips For Fast Recovery
Your surgeon will explain what you will need for self-care during the healing period,
such as:
- Wear a special bra to support the breast.
- Wear loose clothes to avoid any contact with the breast area.
- Get enough rest.
- Sleep on your back or sides to avoid any pressure on your breasts.
- Avoid lifting heavy things for six weeks.
- Avoid strenuous physical activities for six weeks.
- Reduce smoking as much as possible.
Recovery at hospital
It is common for patients to stay in the hospital after this procedure for a few days for breast reduction surgery recovery time. By staying in for medical observation, the patient can rest while the breasts are monitored and the dressings of the breast reduction surgery change.
Patients can expect discharge tubes to be attached to the breasts to drain any excess fluids after this surgery. Medical staff will continue to monitor patients and look for any complications.
Read More: Breast Reduction in Turkey pros, cons, Recovery, and Price.
Recovery at home
After leaving the hospital, patients will not see the outcome of the breast reduction surgery until the swelling has gone down. Feelings of inflammation and tenderness in the breast area are common in breast reduction surgery recovery and can last up to a month post-surgery. As well as this, changes in sensations and temporary bruising are possible side effects in recovery from breast reduction.
Depending on which surgery you opt for, there is a possibility that patients will find scars around the nipple area from the surgery. However, most scars will fade and not be seen under clothing.
Patients must continue to look after their bodies with various self-care actions. For example, ensuring breast surgery support by wearing a special sports bra and loose clothes can help significantly avoid discomfort.
Following surgeon instructions, breast reduction side effects can be minor, but patients will likely need help at home after a breast reduction surgery.
Breast reduction surgery recovery week by week
. Please keep in mind that recovery experiences may vary from person to person, and it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s specific post-operative instructions.
Week 1: Immediate Post-Op
- Pain and Swelling: Expect some pain and swelling. You’ll be prescribed pain medication to manage discomfort.
- Rest: Rest is crucial during this phase. Avoid strenuous activities.
- Dressing Changes: Your surgeon or nurse will change dressings and possibly drains.
- Support Garment: You’ll need to wear a surgical bra or compression garment for support.
- Limited Arm Mobility: Arm movement may be limited initially.
- Diet: Stick to a balanced diet to aid healing.
Week 2-3: Early Recovery
- Reduced Pain: Pain and swelling start to decrease.
- Sutures: If you have sutures, they may be removed during a follow-up visit.
- Gradual Resumption of Activities: Begin light activities, but avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.
- Scarring: Incisions may appear red or raised but will improve over time.
- Continued Support Garment: Continue wearing the support garment as directed.
Week 4-6: Mid-Recovery
- Less Discomfort: Most pain and swelling should be gone.
- Normal Activities: You can gradually resume normal daily activities.
- Exercise: Consult your surgeon before resuming strenuous exercise.
- Scarring Care: Follow scar care instructions provided by your surgeon.
- Swelling Reduction: Swelling continues to decrease.
Week 7 and Beyond Late Recovery
- Minimal Pain and Swelling: You should experience minimal discomfort and swelling.
- Scar Maturation: Scars continue to fade and flatten.
- Full Mobility: Regain full arm mobility and flexibility.
- Exercise Routine: Resume regular exercise as advised by your surgeon.
- Follow-Up Visits: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.
Long-Term Recovery: Months to a Year
- Scar Management: Continue scar management techniques such as silicone gel or sheets.
- Final Results: Final breast shape and size become more apparent.
- Bra Support: Continue to wear a supportive bra for comfort.
- Sun Protection: Protect scars from the sun to prevent darkening.
Breast Reduction Recovery Timeline
Day 1 to 4 Sleep upright in bed, assisted by pillows to help decrease swelling.
Wear your support bra as advised by your consultant.
Take things easy when you get home.
Days 5 to 15 Slowly increase your activity but nothing too exhausting.
During this time, Any non-dissolvable stitches will be removed.
Driving may be commenced only when comfortable.
Days 15 to 30 Bruising and swelling continue to disappear.
You can back to work after 5 to 15 days from the operation.
1 to 6 Months Gentle exercise can return after four weeks but avoid laborious exercise for an additional 15 days.
Your implants will begin to settle into a more natural-looking position.
6 to 9 Months Scars will start to soften and disappear.
You will get the final result
Conclusion
Like many surgeries, rest and well-being are significant in the recovery period. Sleeping on the back and sides and sleeping well will help to assist in breast reduction recovery.
After breast reduction surgery, any physical activity or carrying heavy weight is discouraged, and it is recommended to avoid these tasks where possible.
Although breast reduction surgery can take up to a month to recover completely, the average recovery time is around two weeks.
Read More About Breast Implant Surgery Recovery
Contact Us Today
Lastly, we offer high-quality, specialized, and affordable Medical care services if you are looking for breast reduction surgery. So contact us today and get a free consultation. Good Luck! Or go back to the Medical Blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the recovery process typically take after breast reduction surgery?
Initial recovery typically lasts 2-6 weeks; however, full healing and lasting results may take up to several months.
Will I experience pain during breast reduction recovery?
Yes, initial discomfort and pain should be expected after surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medications to address it.
When can I return to work or regular daily activities after surgery?
Most patients can resume light activities and work within two to four weeks; more intense activities typically require up to six weeks before returning.
How do I care for my surgical incisions during recovery?
Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding incision care, which could include keeping it clean and applying any necessary ointments or dressings.
Can I shower after breast reduction surgery?
Showering may be allowed a few days post-surgery; just be careful around your incisions and follow your surgeon’s guidance for best results.
Are there any restrictions on lifting objects during recovery?
Yes, you should avoid heavy lifting for at least 4-6 weeks to prevent strain on your healing breasts.
When can I start wearing regular bras again?
Your surgeon will advise when it is safe to transition from surgical bras to regular ones, usually within weeks or months.
Will I have visible scars after breast reduction surgery?
Scarring is inevitable but typically fades with time. Your surgeon may suggest scar care products for maximum effect.
Is it normal to have changes in breast sensation after surgery?
Temporary fluctuations in breast and nipple sensations are typically temporary; however, permanent modifications may occasionally arise.
When can I expect to see the final results of my breast reduction?
Once breast shape and size become clearer after several months, scars continue to improve over a one-year period.
