Breast Reduction Surgery Recovery- Timeline, Diet, & Lifestyle Changes

Week-to-Week Recovery Timeline After Breast Reduction

Generally, breast reduction surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, which means the patient is sent home on the same day after a few hours. If a greater extent of modification is required, the patient may need an overnight stay so that the doctor’s team can monitor the recovery. The patient is sent home the next day after surgery. 

The recovery timeline will be as below. 

Week 1: 

• The first week after surgery is usually the most uncomfortable when the pain is considerable and needs to be managed with heavy pain medications. 
• There will be significant swelling and bruising in the treated area. 
• A drainage tube is also placed in the treated area. Some blood and fluid drainage will occur in the first week. 
• The patient is advised to wear a surgical bra or compression garment to reduce the swelling and support the muscles. 

Week 2: 

• The discomfort and swelling will persist but start to improve gradually. 
• The drainage tubes and stitches will be removed in the second week. 
• It’ll be safe for the patient to start wearing a soft support bra, but the compression garment needs to be worn at least 12 hours a day. 
• Light activities, such as walking, are allowed, but the patient should avoid lifting, pushing, pulling, and other strenuous activities. 

Week 3 to 4: 

• The patient will start to feel better within 3 to 4 weeks, and there will be less discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the breasts. 
• It’ll be fine to resume work or office in the 4th week. 
• The surgical wound will start to heal at this point. 
• The patient can walk and perform basic activities, but strenuous activities should still be avoided. 
• Some adjustments will be made to the pain medication dosage. 
• The patient can start wearing a regular support bra but should continue using the compression garment whenever possible. 

Week 5 to 6: 

• Most patients resume normal activities within 5 to 6 weeks. 
• The patient still needs to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting. 
• The swelling and bruising will continue to decrease.
• The doctor might suggest using scar reduction cream or gels to improve the appearance of the scar. 
• It’s safe for the patient to start driving again. 

In the upcoming weeks, the patient can resume most activities gradually but still needs to be careful about exerting force while pulling or pushing. The patient will have to take some precautions for about 3-4 months to get the desired outcome.

Lifestyle Changes Recommended After Breast Reduction

For most women, breast reduction surgery is necessary to bring positive changes in their lives, physically and emotionally. For a faster and smoother recovery, the patient will have to make the following changes in their regular life. 

• Exercise: Regular exercise is beneficial for overall health and can help maintain the results of breast reduction surgery. However, it is important to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks after surgery to allow the body to heal properly. Light exercise, such as walking, can be helpful in promoting blood flow and reducing the risk of blood clots.
• Proper Posture: Good posture is essential for maintaining proper alignment and reducing strain on the neck, back, and shoulders. After breast reduction, it is important to avoid hunching over or slouching, which can put pressure on the incision sites and affect the final results of the surgery.
• Bra Support: Wearing a supportive bra can help reduce strain on the breasts and provide comfort during the recovery period. It is recommended to wear a surgical or compression bra for the first few weeks after surgery, followed by a well-fitted supportive bra as the healing process progresses.
• Avoid Smoking: Smoking has a direct impact on nerve health which interferes with the body’s healing process and increases the risk of complications after surgery. It’ll be best to avoid smoking or using tobacco products for several weeks before and after surgery.
• Emotional Well-being: Breast reduction surgery can have a significant impact on a person’s emotional well-being. It is important to maintain a positive outlook and seek support from family, friends, or a mental health professional if needed.

These changes will ensure an optimal recovery and help the patient to achieve the desired outcome from the procedure.