Are you considering getting Breast Reduction surgery? Do you suffer from the many social, emotional and physiological issues that surround those with excessively large breasts? Reduction mammoplasty can help you achieve a more proportionate, natural looking breast size. However, many patients are completely unaware about what the post-operative recovery period is like. Knowing what to expect and how to properly prepare for surgery is extremely important. So here are our 6 Tips for Breast Reduction surgery recovery.
1: Wrapping it up!
Once your surgery is complete, our surgeon will wrap your breasts and chest in surgical gauze. This will help protect your incisions as they knit and heal. This dressing will typically be left on for one week and will not need changing till review at one week.
2: Drainage
You will typically be fitted with surgical tubes for one night to drain away excess fluid that accumulates after surgery. Drainage can last a couple hours and will help manage swelling after the procedure. Your experienced surgeon will advise you when it is safe to have the drains removed and will likely conduct the removal themselves.
3: Surgical bra
While it might not be the most attractive thing in the world, a surgical bra is incredibly important for the healing process. Before leaving hospital you will be fitted with your surgical bra. You will need to wear it for several weeks to keep your breasts secure while your incisions heal.
4: No pain, no gain
Breast Reduction is a surgical procedure and like all surgeries you need to expect some pain and swelling for several days – to a few weeks – after your operation. Dr Drielsma advises that post operative pain is likely to be much less than you expect. It is not uncommon to experience bruising and tenderness in the affected area. If you are experiencing excessive pain or discomfort it is important to contact your surgeon and patient advisor. They may be able to prescribe you a short course of pain medications to help alleviate the symptoms.
5: Take it easy
While you might find you feel more comfortable and attractive post-surgery, it is important to give your body plenty of rest. As such, it is important to treat yourself kindly and not to expect too much from your body in the early weeks after surgery. This includes refraining from sexual activity that may impede your healing process.
Patients can generally get back to their regular routine after 2-3 weeks, and exercise after 6-8 weeks. However, it can take your breasts up to 18 months to heal, for swelling to reduce, and for you breasts to settle into their final position. Like all surgery, there will be scarring from your breast surgery however these scars often significantly fade after 8-12 months.
6: GO TO A PROFESSIONAL
You have the best chance for minimal scarring and a comfortable recovery period by seeing an experienced, accredited plastic surgeon. While it might be tempting to chase after those cheap, overseas cosmetic solutions in Thailand and Mexico, you need to seek the safest option for your body. Overseas clinics are often unaccredited and have little to no standards for hygiene and patient safety. As such, your chances of experiencing a botched procedure are far higher than if you sought surgery within Australia. Don’t risk your life to save a few dollars!
Dr Drielsma has over 20 years experience in complex procedures, including Breast Reduction surgery. Contact us today to book your consultation to find out if Breast Reduction surgery is right for you!