What is involved in the breast reduction recovery process?
Initial healing will include swelling and discomfort at the incision sites. A support bra will be recommended for continuous wear for the first six weeks. The bruising will take up to three weeks to disappear. The swelling may take up to six weeks to disappear. The breast shape goes on improving for up to six months.
A return to light activity is possible as soon as you feel ready, usually within ten days following surgery. All stitches are usually absorbable and will not need removal. You will be advised not to exercise for six weeks after surgery, and after that period, you must wear a sports bra while exercising.
Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling dissipates and breast shape and position settle. Scars are initially red and visible for the first six months but rapidly become soft, supple, and fade after that.
What should I expect in the post-operative period?
Small thin tubes are usually placed after major reductions to drain out any accumulated blood. These drains take about two to five days to stop draining, and are removed once they have stopped draining. You may be discharged after drains have been removed.
The post-operative discomfort can be managed quite satisfactorily by regular medication with oral pain killers. You will find that you can discontinue these a week after surgery.
3. How breast reduction is performed?
Breast reduction is usually done under general anesthesia. There are many ways to do breast reduction. The procedure essentially consists of excising a wedge of the breast gland with the overlying skin. While doing so the nipple is preserved on a bridge of tissue, which provides it with blood supply, and then translocated to a new higher position. The breast and skin are closed, giving it a smaller and much nicer shape.
The final scar will be around the areola and extend vertically down to the inframammary fold in the vertical scar technique of breast reduction. There will be an additional transverse scar in the inframammary fold if the keyhole pattern (inferior pedicle technique) is used.
What procedures can be performed in conjunction with Breast Reduction?
Patients often opt to combine breast reduction surgery with other cosmetic procedures, such as breast lift, breast asymmetry correction, liposuction, or tummy tuck. This can help achieve optimal results and a more cohesive overall look.
Are there any risks and complications involved in breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction is a refined surgical procedure and is done quite routinely. Like any surgical procedure there are potential risks and complications that our surgeon at Aesthetics Medispa will explain in detail.
Some of the potential risks include:
● Accumulation of blood (hematoma), infection and poor healing at the site of suturing.
● Decreased sensation at the nipple.
● Decreased blood supply at the nipple, which may lead to partial or total necrosis of the nipple. This may need secondary reconstruction. This is very rare. The risk is increased in smokers and diabetics. Hence, women are advised to stop smoking at least two weeks prior to surgery.
● The ability to breastfeed after reduction is unpredictable. It depends on the extent of reduction and the type of technique used.
