Breast Reduction: What can I expect after my operation?
After surgery, you'll be wrapped in an elastic bandage over gauze dressings. Rarely are any drains used. You will leave this dressing on until you are seen in the office the following day. At that time, your dressing will be removed and your wounds checked by our nurse. You will be fitted for a bra at that time. We may ask you to remain in the bandages for a few days to reduce the swelling.
- “It used to be that I could not wait to take off my bra at the end of the day. No more!”
Most patients take pain medication for the first two or three days following their operation. Often, we will change the kind of pain medication on your first visit after the operation to provide you with better pain relief without causing nausea.
Most patients are allowed to shower the following day (the second day after the operation.) You can expect your breasts to swell for two to three days following your operation. If your breast skin is very dry following surgery, you can apply a moisturizer several times a day, but be sure to keep the suture area dry.
Your first menstruation following surgery may cause your breasts to swell and hurt. You may also experience random, shooting pains for a few months. You can expect some loss of feeling in your nipples and breast skin, caused by the swelling after surgery. This usually fades over the next six weeks or so. In some patients, however, it may last a year or more, and occasionally it may be permanent.
When will I be back to normal?
Although you may be up and about in a day or two, your breasts may still ache occasionally for a couple of weeks. You should avoid lifting or pushing anything heavy for three or four weeks. Over exertion may result in internal bleeding and a return to the operating room.
Dr. Grado will give you detailed instructions for resuming your normal activities. Most women can return to work (if it's not too strenuous) and social activities in about two weeks. But you'll have much less stamina for several weeks, and should limit your exercises to stretching, bending, and swimming until your energy level returns. You'll also need a good athletic bra for support.
What happens in the months following?
Although much of the swelling and bruising will disappear in the first few weeks, it may be six months to a year before your breasts settle into their new shape. Even then, their shape may fluctuate in response to your hormonal shifts, weight changes, and pregnancy.
Dr. Grado will make every effort to make your scars as inconspicuous as possible. Still, it's important to remember that breast reduction scars are extensive, permanent, and unpredictable. They often remain lumpy and red for months, then gradually become less obvious, sometimes eventually fading to thin white lines. Fortunately, the scars can usually be placed so that you can wear even low-cut tops.
Dr. Grado cannot guarantee a certain bra size or cup since that varies tremendously depending on the manufacturer and style of bra. Dr. Grado will try to bring your breast size down to the size you feel comfortable with.
However, as much as you may have desired these changes, you'll need time to adjust to your new image-as will your family and friends. Be patient with yourself, and with them. Keep in mind why you had this surgery, and chances are that, like most women, you'll be pleased with the results.
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