After undergoing a breast reduction procedure, the steps that you can take during recovery can help with your body’s natural healing process, prevent potential complications and help to achieve the best results. Familiarising yourself with what to expect, what to do and what to avoid during breast reduction recovery can help you to feel confident and prepared for your procedure.
During the consultation process with Dr Broadhurst at one of our locations, such as the high demand Brisbane or Sunshine Coast, you will receive a personalised list of instructions to follow. To help you to feel a little more prepared now, read on to learn more about what you can expect during your breast reduction recovery.
What is breast reduction surgery?
To address overly large breasts that could be a source of discomfort, low self esteem or other health complications, breast reduction surgery involves removing excess breast tissue and skin to reduce the breast size. The procedure also involves repositioning the nipple and lifting the breasts to improve the shape and aesthetic of the breasts.
The result of breast reduction surgery can be life-changing, improving comfort levels, confidence levels and posture. To learn more about what the procedure involves, including the supportive consultation process, visit our breast reduction page.
What to expect during breast reduction recovery
Immediately after your surgery, you should be able to notice smaller and more lifted breasts, however, it is normal to notice the signs of the body’s natural healing process taking place. You may experience some pain, discomfort, swelling, bruising and areas of numbness. You will have some wound dressings and bandages on the operated area, which you will be instructed on how to manage at home.
This initial breast reduction recovery period can last for about a few days to one week. Generally, patients can resume their usual daily routine after two to three weeks, as long as their routine does not include heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.
While you can see immediate results, it is important to remember that the complete results of the procedure will be visible once swelling subsides. In the longer term, scarring from incisions can take about 18 months to fade.
To navigate through your breast reduction recovery period, managing discomfort and reducing the long term visibility of scarring, you’ll need to follow your personalised recovery instructions.
Important breast reduction recovery instructions
Dr Broadhurst believes in a patient-centred, supportive surgical journey. Not only will he aim to make the consultation and procedure process as comfortable as possible, but he will aim to support patients throughout their recovery.
Ultimately, your recovery instructions will be personalised, tailored to the details of your procedure and taking any personal factors such as health conditions into account. Generally, the most important breast reduction recovery instructions will apply to all patients. The most important instructions to follow include:
- Avoid strenuous exercise
- Avoid heavy and overhead lifting
- Avoid excessive heat exposure
- Do not smoke
- Wear your bra
- Do not wear underwire bras
- If prescribed, take medications to prevent infection
- Keep the incision sites clean and manage bandages as instructed
- Monitor the healing process and report any concerning signs of potential complications to your surgeon or GP
These instructions help you to heal sufficiently, prevent complications and reduce the chance of visible scarring. Following these instructions can also help you to have a speedy and fuss-free recovery, lasting for the expected duration of time and allowing you to enjoy your results as soon as you can.
General breast reduction recovery tips
As well as following the most important instructions, we recommend taking care of your general health and taking some steps to make the recovery process as comfortable and stress-free as possible. To help you to achieve the best results and prevent discomfort and stress throughout your recovery, you can:
- Follow a healthy diet
- Stay hydrated
- Get plenty of rest
- Avoid alcohol
- Avoid exposing the incision sites to direct sunlight
- Gently apply cold compress to relieve pain and reduce swelling
- Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing
- Fill any prescriptions ahead of time
- Prepare for recovery in advance by setting up a designated, comfy area in your home to rest
- Meal prep in advance of your procedure date so that you will have access to healthy meals
- Arrange for someone to stay with you within the first few weeks of recovery, to assist in daily tasks such as overhead lifting
Getting prepared for even the smallest aspects of recovery can make your healing process feel a lot simpler. The time of recovery after a surgical procedure is the most important time for self-care, self-compassion and allowing yourself to rest. We recommend avoiding stress as much as possible and putting your comfort and wellbeing first.
Potential complications to look out for during recovery
During your recovery, Dr Broadhurst will be available to contact for support in the case that you are experiencing any unusual symptoms or need further advice. At your in person consultation, he will outline the potential risks and complications of breast reduction surgery and how to minimise them.
The recovery instructions and tips above are designed to prevent the possible complications as much as possible. Complications that can occur during recovery can include bleeding, infection, a buildup of fluid around the incision site, and damage to nerves, blood vessels or muscles.
It is important to monitor your health during your recovery and let your surgeon or GP know of any of the following symptoms:
- Experiencing chills or a high temperature
- Dizziness or nausea
- Drainage or pus from the incision site
- Excessive bleeding
- A strong odour from the incision site
- A hot to touch or painful to touch wound
- Redness around the incision site
- Unusual pain or numbness in the operated area
It is important to follow any medical advice given after seeking support to prevent even further complications that could potentially become permanent and interfere with the quality of your results.
Breast reduction procedures with Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Andrew Broadhurst
Focusing on providing individual care and support, Dr Broadhurst creates a tailored treatment plan for every patient, with the ultimate aim to achieve your desired results.
Breast reduction procedures are highly personal and should require a high level of understanding, empathy and individualised support.
Specialising in breast procedures, Dr Broadhurst uses his thorough knowledge and expertise to make patients feel empowered and supported throughout their surgical journey, from the consultation process through to recovery.
If you have any personal questions about breast reduction recovery, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team today.
