After your breast reduction surgery, your body will adjust to the new changes. You may experience some swelling and some minor discomfort at first, but these should subside within a few weeks.
Take pain medication as prescribed by your surgeon, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil).
1. Take It Easy
If you are thinking about having breast reduction surgery or have already undergone one, knowing what to expect and how to take care of yourself during the recovery period can make a big difference.
During the initial week after surgery, you may experience moderate pain. This is an expected part of healing and should be managed with medications prescribed by your plastic surgeon.
Your body is working hard to heal itself, so it’s essential that you give it some rest when needed.
Make sure to stay hydrated as often as possible. Water is ideal, but teas and juices can also be beneficial. Drinking plenty of water helps your skin and muscles heal more quickly.
2. Get Plenty of Rest
Sleep is essential in the first 72 hours after surgery, as getting enough rest will help you recover quickly from your breast reduction procedure.
Though you may feel fatigued, don’t try to do too much. After a few days have passed, slowly begin returning to light work or desk jobs.
Swelling and bruising are common in the days immediately following breast reduction, so it’s essential to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of water to reduce their effects.
Within a few weeks, the swelling and bruising should have gone; your incisions should look pink and feel tender to the touch. This is an encouraging sign that your healing is proceeding as expected and you’re on the road to recovery.
3. Stay Hydrated
Water is one of the most crucial elements to remember during your breast reduction surgery recovery process. Staying hydrated helps your body heal more quickly and efficiently after surgery.
Water helps you flush out toxins, avoid fluid retention, and reduce swelling. It also supports skin healing processes while keeping tissues supple.
Make a goal to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. For added appeal, flavor your water and invest in a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Staying hydrated can also help avoid constipation after surgery, which is a common issue for those recovering from surgery. Pain medications and reduced activity levels may contribute to constipation, which is something you definitely do not want to experience after your procedure.
4. Wear a Support Bra
If you’re recovering from a breast reduction, it is recommended that you wear a supportive bra at all times. This will keep the incisions clean and reduce pain.
Your best Plastic Surgeon is likely to prescribe you a compression bra and instruct you to wear it continuously for up to three weeks, except when showering.
Compression bras provide gentle pressure to your breasts, helping reduce swelling and speed up recovery time. They also improve blood flow to the area, ensuring that breast tissues don’t go without oxygen or nutrients.
For optimal results, opt for a post-surgery bra with front closures, adjustable straps, and breathable fabric. This will prevent any muscle strain when wearing or taking off the bra.
5. Avoid Excessive Activity
It is essential to rest and avoid excessive activity during your quick recovery period after breast reduction surgery. Exercising too soon after breast reduction surgery can put undue strain on your chest muscles, incisions, and stitches.
Dr cautions patients not to lift anything heavier than 2-3kg for at least a month after surgery. Furthermore, those who used to jog should wait six weeks before beginning their regular jogging regimen again.
It is also essential to drink plenty of water during your recovery period. Staying hydrated will aid in aiding your body’s healing process after surgery, reduce swelling, and promote blood circulation throughout your system.
