What is and isn't normal after breast reduction?

After surgery, it's normal to feel unusually tired, achy, and sore. Breast redness, fluid movement, numbness, and swelling is also normal. These symptoms will go away after a few weeks. Some women have emotional side effects during recovery, such as depression, which is also normal.

What are common problems after breast reduction?

The most common breast reduction complications are infections, loss of nipple sensation and breast reduction scars. Most patients have a lollipop-shaped scar that circles the nipple and includes a straight line down to the crease under the breast, or an anchor-shaped scar along the fold under the breast.

How long does it take for breasts to look normal after breast reduction?

Your breasts will be a little swollen for the first several weeks. While you definitely shouldn't expect the size to drop from one cup to another cup, most women notice a definite size change over the initial several weeks. Your final breast shape will take around six months to settle.

How do you know if your breast reduction is healing?

At about three weeks you will notice almost all the bruising is gone and a lot of the swelling has subsided. Your incisions may look pink or brown and they might still feel tender and firm to touch. With your doctor's okay, you can start doing more activities at this point.

How long does your stomach stay swollen after breast reduction?

Swelling reaches its peak at about day 3-5 after surgery; after that it diminishes over time. You will also note that swelling will “move” to the ribcage, abdomen, hips, and even legs–this is normal (gravity). “Final” healing and lymphatic swelling resolution takes 6-12 months.

What is the recovery like after breast reduction surgery?

Do and don'ts after breast reduction?

Don't lift, push, or pull objects heavier than 5 to 10 pounds (2.3 to 5.4 kilograms) for 6 weeks after surgery. Keep this in mind when grocery shopping, lifting children, or doing laundry. Don't do strenuous exercises (such as running, jogging, or jumping) for 6 weeks after surgery.

What happens if I do too much after breast reduction?

Answer: Too much activity after breast reduction

They usually resolve on their own and although they can sometimes cause a small open wound. It would be best to decrease your level of activity and schedule a review with your plastic surgeon.

What are the signs of infection after breast reduction surgery?

If you have greenish, yellowish, or cloudy drainage seeping from the surgical site, your healing incisions might be infected, and you will need to contact your surgeon as soon as possible.

How do I know if my surgical wound is healing right?

The area may be swollen, sore, and red in color right after you've sustained your injury. This is normal as blood is being sent to the area to supply oxygen and other nutrients for healing. But if the wound is still red and swollen after five days, it's a sign that your body is not healing correctly.

What should I watch after breast reduction?

You may feel sore for 2 to 3 weeks. You also may feel pulling or stretching in your breast area. Although you may need pain medicine for a week or two, you can expect to feel better and stronger each day. For several weeks, you may get tired easily or have less energy than usual.

What are the five signs of an infection after surgery?

Signs and symptoms of surgical site infections

Any SSI may cause redness, delayed healing, fever, pain, tenderness, warmth, or swelling.

What not to do after breast reduction surgery?

NO heavy lifting (greater than 15 pounds), pushing or pulling for 4 weeks after surgery. NO driving or working while on pain medications. You may take Tylenol for pain or Benadryl for itching if needed. Avoid Advil, Motrin, or Ibuprofen for the first week after surgery but you may take them any time after the 1st week.

Why is my stomach big after breast reduction?

During your recovery, your activity level will be significantly reduced. This decrease in movement can lead to fluid retention, increasing your swelling and bloating symptoms. Without being able to engage in the physical activity you usually would, you may even recognise a small weight gain. This is completely normal!

When can I raise my arms after breast reduction?

Lifting your arms over your head, bending and heavy lifting should be avoided for the first few days after breast reduction surgery. After several days have passed, you may gradually increase your daily activities. Anything strenuous should be avoided for a minimum of six weeks to promote complete healing.

How long do I have to sleep sitting up after breast reduction?

Typically, patients can safely resume their preferred sleeping style four to six weeks after surgery.

Can I wear a sports bra instead of surgical bra?

Sports bra is fine for most of the patients. However if you are going for a big size augmentation, a surgical bra is recommended as it gives you lateral support on the breasts. So you don't want the breast implants to pop up laterally, that's why the surgical bras are better.

How long does it take for breast reduction incisions to heal?

A month after your procedure, you will be essentially fully healed. While everyone heals at a different rate, you can expect for your incisions to be healed fully three to four weeks after your procedure. Once your incisions are fully healed, you may take a bath.

Why did I gain weight after my breast reduction?

Weight gain can be related to hormonal balances, but these should not change with a reduction in breast tissue. Therefore, your weight gain is likely related to an increase in you consumed calories (whether you notice it or not) or a decrease in calories burned.

How many sizes do you go down after breast reduction?

Typically, most reductions bring the cup size down one to two sizes, though in cases of extremely large breasts, more drastic results may be achieved. For example, a woman who is a DD but wants a reduction to reduce discomfort, especially during physical activity and exercise may be able to go down to a B-C cup.

Is it common to lose weight after breast reduction?

Yes, you will probably lose some weight after this procedure because you are removing fat from your body. The amount of weight you'll lose depends on how much tissue you remove with surgery. However, you shouldn't expect your operation to tip the scales. Even the largest breasts only weigh only a few pounds per breast.

What is the fastest way to recover from a breast reduction?

How long does tightness last after breast reduction?

1 to 2 Weeks After Surgery

You can expect your breasts to feel tight and swollen for about one week – many women compare this feeling to when their bodies start producing milk for breastfeeding. Throughout this time, you should not have too many issues moving around.

How do I know if my incision is opening?

What are the signs of sepsis after surgery?

How long after surgery do you have to worry about infection?

Most surgical wound infections show up within the first 30 days after surgery. Surgical wound infections may have pus draining from them and can be red, painful or hot to touch. You might have a fever and feel sick.