The Healing Period: Recovering from Breast Reduction Surgery By Kenneth Smart Jr. on May 28, 2015

Disproportionately large and heavy breasts can cause a woman physical pain as well as feelings of self-consciousness. Fortunately, breast reduction surgery makes it possible for such women to achieve breasts that are more proportional with their figures, bringing their bodies into balance while eliminating neck, back, and shoulder pain and improving their self-confidence and self-esteem.

If you have large, heavy breasts that are causing you discomfort or bringing you unwanted attention, plastic surgeon Ken Smart would welcome the opportunity to explain the benefits of breast reduction to you during a confidential, one-on-one consultation. In this consultation, you and Dr. Smart will also have the opportunity to discuss your cosmetic preferences and goals, as well as the risks associated with the procedure and what you can expect during your breast reduction recovery period. At our Dallas area practice, Dr. Smart believes in presenting balanced information about every procedure he performs so that his patients can make the most educated, confident decisions about whether to proceed with treatment.

Of course, every patient’s breast reduction recovery will be unique, depending on the exact instructions provided to her by Dr. Smart. In the meanwhile, however, here is some basic information about the healing period after breast reduction surgery.

What Patients Can Typically Expect after Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that you will be able to return home on the day of your surgery. Of course, you will not be able to drive yourself home, so please arrange to have someone else transport you to and from your surgical appointment. It is probably a good idea to have someone at hand to help you around the house with basic chores for a day or two after your surgery as well, as your movement will be limited.

You should expect to miss at least two weeks of work while recovering from breast reduction surgery. During this time, you will be encouraged to do as much light walking as you can, but otherwise get lots of rest. Until given clearance by Dr. Smart to do so, you should avoid:

Strenuous exercise
Taking a bath
Raising your arms above your head
Lifting objects heavier than 10 pounds

To facilitate your healing and ensure the best possible results of your surgery, you must follow all post-surgical instructions provided to you by Dr. Smart to the letter. In addition to any instructions that are specific to your case, you will be advised to:

Take all medications as prescribed
Wear your compression garments exactly as advised
Keep your upper body elevated at all times, even when resting and sleeping
Drink plenty of water and other liquids
Eat a healthy diet low in sodium
If you are a smoker, give up the habit at least while recovering, as it can interfere with your body’s ability to heal
Attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. Smart