Caring for Yourself After Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery, also known as mammoplasty, is a procedure that reduces breast size by removing excess fat, tissue, and skin. People may choose to undergo this surgery for a variety of reasons, including physical discomfort, aesthetic preferences, or personal wellbeing. If you’ve had breast reduction surgery, taking the right steps during your recovery can help promote healing and improve the overall outcome of your procedure. This guide from Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors provides clear advice on how to care for yourself after surgery and support your recovery process.

Understanding breast reduction surgery

Breast reduction surgery can help alleviate physical discomfort such as back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of large breasts. The procedure also enhances body symmetry by lifting and reshaping the breasts and repositioning the nipples for a more balanced appearance. Some individuals choose to combine breast reduction with other procedures, such as a lumpectomy or breast lift, for a cohesive result.

If your breast surgery involves a lumpectomy (removal of a tumour), an oncoplastic reduction may be performed. This involves reshaping the remaining breast tissue during the same procedure to improve aesthetics. In some cases, the surgeon may also reduce the other breast to achieve symmetry. Before the operation, your healthcare provider may recommend a mammogram to evaluate breast tissue.

Breast reduction surgery is typically performed as a day procedure, allowing you to return home the same day. You will need a responsible care partner to accompany you home and assist during the initial recovery period.

Breast reduction aftercare instructions

Your surgeon will provide instructions for care of your surgical site to enable optimal healing during your recovery.

Incision care

After surgery, your incisions will be closed using dissolvable or non-dissolvable sutures. Dissolvable sutures will naturally break down over time as you recover from breast reduction, while non-dissolvable sutures require removal by your healthcare provider about two weeks after surgery. Small adhesive strips (Steri-Strips™) may cover your incisions; these will fall off naturally as the wounds heal.

Your incisions will also be covered with a gauze bandage, which your bra will help keep in place. You should replace the gauze if it becomes soiled, wet, or saturated with drainage. This is especially important after showering.

Managing drainage

It is normal to experience mild, bloody drainage from the incision sites during the first few days after surgery to remove excess fluid from the surgical site. Increased drainage can occur after showering. However, if you notice heavy bleeding or sudden swelling or firmness in your breast, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Additional gauze padding can help manage light drainage until you receive medical advice.

Some patients may require a surgical drain, a small device that collects fluid from the surgical site to reduce swelling. If a surgical drain is used, your healthcare provider will teach you how to care for it before discharge, and you will receive further guidance on its management.

Recovery at home after a breast reduction procedure

Recovering at home after breast reduction surgery requires adherence to your surgeon's instructions to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Showering guidelines

• Avoid showering during the first 48 hours post-surgery. After this, follow your surgeon’s specific recommendations, which may include only showering from the waist down.

• If you have a surgical drain, wait an additional 24 to 48 hours after its removal before taking a full shower.

• Use warm water and gentle, fragrance-free soap to clean the incision area. Avoid aiming the shower stream directly at your breasts. Instead, let water flow softly over the area by angling it towards your back or arm.

• Pat the incisions dry with a clean towel and avoid rubbing. Do not use deodorants, lotions, or creams near the incisions until approved by your healthcare provider.

• Avoid tub baths, hot tubs, or swimming pools for six to eight weeks or until your healthcare provider confirms that the incision sites have fully healed.

Managing pain after breast reduction surgery

You will receive prescriptions for pain medication to help manage post-operative discomfort. Since pain medications and anaesthesia can lead to constipation, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fibre and staying hydrated can help prevent this. Over-the-counter laxatives or stool softeners may also be recommended.

Physical activity and lifestyle adjustments

To ensure optimal healing after your breast surgery, you will need to make certain lifestyle changes.

Activity restrictions (the initial six weeks)

• Avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling objects heavier than five to ten pounds (approximately 2.3 to 5.4 kilograms).

• Refrain from strenuous exercises such as running, jumping, or high-impact activities during this time.

• Gradually reintroduce light activities as advised by your surgeon, ensuring your movements do not strain the chest area.

Nutritional considerations

A healthy diet plays an important role in recovery. Incorporate foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to support tissue repair. Staying hydrated is equally vital, as it promotes healing and helps manage post-surgical side effects like swelling.

Smoking

Avoid smoking during your recovery after surgery. Cigarettes can reduce blood supply to the nipples, which may slow healing or increase the risk of necrosis in the breast tissue and nipples.

Signs of infection after breast reduction surgery

Monitor your recovery closely and contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:

• A fever of 38°C or higher.

• Increased redness, warmth, swelling or pain in the breast.

• Heavy, bright red drainage from the incision.

• Increasing firmness or swelling after breast reduction surgery

• Chills or other flu-like symptoms.

Promptly addressing these signs can prevent complications and support smoother recovery.

Long-term recovery considerations

The importance of caring for yourself after breast reduction surgery extends beyond the initial six weeks. Over the next several months of your breast reduction recovery:

• Scarring: scars may appear red or raised initially but tend to fade and flatten over time. Silicone scar sheets, massage and protecting scars from sunlight can help improve their appearance.

• Breast shape: your breasts will continue to settle into their final position over the following months. Full recovery, including scar maturation, can take up to a year.

• Lifestyle adjustments: maintain a stable weight and wear well-fitted bras to preserve the surgical results.

FAQs

How long should I wear my surgical bra after breast reduction surgery?

Wearing a surgical bra provides support and helps reduce swelling during the recovery process. Most surgeons recommend wearing it continuously for six weeks, except when showering. During this time, a soft, supportive bra without underwires is advised. Your surgeon may provide specific guidance based on your progress and comfort.

Can you breastfeed after breast reduction surgery?

Breastfeeding after breast reduction surgery depends on the technique used and the preservation of milk ducts and glandular tissue. While some women can breastfeed without issues, others may experience reduced milk production. If breastfeeding is important to you, discuss this with your surgeon beforehand to understand the likelihood of maintaining this ability and explore options suited to you.

How to sleep after breast reduction surgery?

During the initial recovery period, sleeping on your back with your upper body slightly elevated is recommended. This position helps reduce swelling and discomfort while protecting the healing incisions. Using extra pillows or a recliner can provide additional support. Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach until your surgeon advises it is safe to do so.

What will the result be two years after breast reduction surgery?

Two years after breast reduction surgery, most patients notice that their breasts have settled into their final shape and position. Scars will typically have faded and flattened, though their appearance varies from person to person. The long-term results often include improved body proportion and relief from physical discomfort associated with larger breasts. It is important to maintain a stable weight to help preserve the outcome.

How solicitors can assist with breast reduction issues

While most breast reduction surgeries are performed safely, complications such as improper healing, infection, or dissatisfaction with the results may arise. In cases where medical negligence is suspected, consulting with an experienced solicitor can provide clarity on your options. If you feel your concerns were inadequately addressed or the standard of care fell below expectations, you may be eligible for compensation.

Solicitors specialising in cosmetic surgery claims can help assess your case, gather evidence and provide representation to achieve a fair outcome. Should you feel that you've suffered as a result of negligence during breast reduction surgery, get in touch with Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors for help in securing breast surgery compensation.