What to Expect When Undergoing Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery is often a less well-known procedure compared to breast augmentation and breast lift surgeries. It can be difficult to know what to expect from breast reduction surgery if you have little to no knowledge of the procedure. 

Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors has created this helpful guide to help you understand what to expect from breast reduction surgery. 

What is breast reduction surgery?

Breast reduction surgery, also known as a mammaplasty, is a major operation that reduces the size of the breasts, often with the purpose of making them feel lighter and providing a more comfortable shape. During the procedure, excess fat tissue and skin are removed from the breasts. 

Why is breast reduction surgery needed?

Breast reduction surgery is meant for those who have large breasts and wish to resolve issues such as:

• Chronic back, neck and shoulder pain
• Chronic rash or skin irritation under the breasts
• Nerve pain
• Restricted activity
• Poor self-image related to large breasts
• Difficulty fitting into bras and clothing 

Having large breasts can cause a number of issues, the most common being chronic back pain, for which breast reduction surgery can help those with large breasts begin to find their life more comfortable again.

Breast reduction surgery can also contribute to the patient having a more confident and positive outlook on their own body, having previously been weighed down by their large chest. 

Breast reduction surgery is possible at almost any age, and is sometimes available for people under the age of 18 in some severe cases. 

What are the risks of breast reduction surgery? 

Like any other cosmetic procedure, breast reduction surgery does have some risks. Bleeding, infection and an adverse reaction to anaesthesia are all common risks in every surgery. Other possible risks specifically for breast reduction surgery can include: 

• Bruising
• Scarring
• Loss of sensation in the nipples and the skin surrounding the nipples (areolae)
• Difficulty or complete inability to breast-feed
• Differences in the size, shape and symmetry of the breasts, which can lead to further surgery to correct this

It is important that you do your research before undergoing any sort of medical procedure. Ensure that your surgeon is reputable to reduce the risks of damage. Take a look at our guide to help you find a safe cosmetic surgeon.

What to expect from breast reduction surgery

Breast reductions are generally performed under general anaesthesia.

During the procedure

The specific technique used to reduce the size of your breasts can vary. The procedure might include surgery through incisions, or liposuction to remove the excess fat in your breasts. 

The surgeon will most likely: 

• Make incisions around the areola and down each breast
• Remove excess breast tissue, fat and skin to reduce the size of the breasts
• Reshape the breast and reposition the nipple and areola 

During the procedure, the nipple and areola usually remain attached to the breast. It is important to know also that, although your surgeon will try to achieve perfect symmetry between the breasts, some variation in size and shape may occur. 

After the procedure

Immediately after the surgery, your breasts will likely be covered with a gauze dressing or bandages, and a tube could be placed under each arm to drain any excess blood or fluid. 

In the following days after surgery, it is normal to experience tenderness and sensitivity in the breasts, as well as swollen and bruised skin. Your surgeon may recommend wearing a compression bra (e.g. a sports bra) to protect your breasts.

Healing

During the first week of your recovery, the pain and discomfort should start to decrease and, if directed by your surgeon, you may be able to return to some normal activities as long as they are not too strenuous. 

Lifting your arms above your head should still be avoided as this can cause irritation and bleeding along your scars as they heal. 

Three to four weeks post-op

After almost a month of recovery, you should be feeling almost no pain or discomfort, and any swelling or bruising should have dramatically reduced. If there were any complications during the surgery, some bruising is still to be expected. If you are concerned about your bruising or swelling, speak to your surgeon immediately. 

At this stage, you should be able to return to most activities, but be wary of over-exerting yourself. Continue to wear a sports bra to aid healing. 

Four to six weeks post-op

Most patients are fully recovered by this stage and can resume their regular activities as normal. All bruising and swelling should no longer be visible. 

Your surgeon should schedule a follow-up appointment with you to check how your implants have settled and if you have recovered well. 

Contact us

If you have suffered as a result of negligent breast reduction, our expert legal team at Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors can help. Our team of professionals pride themselves on being able to offer a sympathetic and supportive service to our clients. 

If you have undergone negligent surgery that has left you suffering, either emotionally, physically, or financially, contact us. A member of our team will be able to speak to you and discuss your options. 

Is it Ok to Sneeze After Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty surgery is a cosmetic procedure that alters the structure and appearance of the nose. During the healing process, the nasal tissues are extremely delicate and nose surgery patients should avoid doing anything that could risk damage while they are healing. Some patients may wonder whether sneezing episodes could affect their surgical outcome and may want to understand how to mitigate these risks.

This blog will outline what the risks of sneezing are on rhinoplasty results, what the signs of damage are and the actions patients can take to ensure a smooth healing process after nose reshaping surgery.

Is it ok to sneeze after rhinoplasty?

Sneezing after a nose job can put strain on the delicate nasal tissues as they heal. While it is not possible to completely avoid sneezing, taking precautions can help prevent complications. Forceful sneezing can lead to swelling, bleeding, or even changes in the results of the surgery. To minimise the impact, patients are advised to sneeze with their mouths open, which helps to reduce pressure on the nasal structures during sneezing.

During the initial weeks of recovery, the nose is particularly vulnerable. The internal structures are still settling, and any excessive force could disrupt healing. If sneezing becomes frequent due to allergies or irritants, consult a medical professional for advice on managing symptoms safely.

What advice should I follow when recovering from rhinoplasty?

Proper aftercare is essential for a successful rhinoplasty recovery. Patients should follow their surgeon’s guidance, which typically includes:

• Avoiding strenuous activities: heavy lifting, exercise and bending over can increase blood pressure and swelling.
• Keeping the head elevated: sleeping with the head propped up on pillows can help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
• Avoiding nose blowing: forceful nose blowing can disrupt healing and lead to complications such as bleeding.
• Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet: proper nutrition supports tissue repair.
• Following medication instructions: any prescribed pain relief or antibiotics should be taken as directed to aid healing and prevent infection.
• Avoid wearing glasses: given that glasses rest on the bridge of the nose, this can place pressure on the healing nasal structures that could affect the final surgical outcome. Surgeons may recommend that patients avoid glasses for a minimum of four to six weeks following surgery, opting for contact lenses where possible.

How do I know if I damaged my rhinoplasty because of sneezing?

If the nose experiences excessive force - whether from a sneeze or accidental impact - patients may be concerned about whether their rhinoplasty results have been affected. Signs of potential damage include:

• Sudden or increased swelling: some swelling is normal after surgery, but unexpected or prolonged swelling may indicate an issue.
• Persistent nasal pain: if discomfort worsens rather than improves, it could suggest internal irritation or damage to the nasal passages.
• Changes in nasal shape: any visible changes in symmetry or structure may be a sign that the healing process has been disrupted.
• Nasal bleeding: while minor spotting can occur, persistent or heavy bleeding should be evaluated by a medical professional.

If any of these signs appear, consult your surgeon promptly to assess whether additional care or adjustments are needed.

Recognising the signs of surgical complications

While sneezing can put strain on the healing nose and potentially affect rhinoplasty results, all cosmetic surgery carries some level of risk that could occur regardless if the patient sneezes or not. Rhinoplasty is no exception, and while complications are uncommon, they can sometimes occur even when patients carefully follow post-operative care instructions.

Patients should be aware of the warning signs that could indicate a complication, including:

• Persistent or worsening pain: discomfort that does not improve or suddenly worsens could indicate an issue with healing.
• Excessive swelling that does not subside: while some swelling is expected, prolonged or severe swelling beyond what was discussed could be a sign of fluid retention or another complication.
• Prolonged or heavy bleeding: minor spotting is normal in the early stages, but ongoing or excessive bleeding should be assessed by a medical professional.
• Difficulty breathing: some nasal congestion is expected in the immediate aftermath of rhinoplasty, however, if nasal airflow becomes significantly obstructed or breathing issues continue beyond what was expected, it may indicate internal swelling or a structural issue.
• Signs of infection: redness, warmth, unusual discharge or fever could indicate an infection that requires medical attention.
• Visible changes in nasal shape: if the nose appears asymmetrical or changes unexpectedly, there may be a disruption in the healing process.

Understanding your surgeon's duty of care

Your surgeon has a legal and ethical duty of care to ensure that procedures like rhinoplasty are carried out safely and to a reasonable standard. This duty extends from the initial consultation through to post-operative care, your safety and wellbeing at every stage.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing full and accurate information: surgeons must explain the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of rhinoplasty, allowing patients to make an informed decision.
• Conducting thorough pre-surgical assessments: a surgeon must evaluate a patient’s medical history, overall health, and suitability for the procedure.
• Following best medical practices: during surgery, the surgeon must adhere to industry standards and regulatory guidelines to minimise risks and complications.
• Ensuring proper post-operative care: patients should receive clear aftercare instructions, access to follow-up appointments, and prompt support if complications arise.
• Acting in the patient’s best interests: surgeons should never pressure individuals into undergoing surgery and must ensure patients have realistic expectations about their results.

Finding help if your surgeon was negligent

Should you believe that your surgeon performed your rhinoplasty surgery negligently, experts in rhinoplasty surgery claims such as Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors will be able to help you make a claim for compensation. Our friendly, knowledgeable team can help you to understand your rights, compile evidence needed to build a case and secure compensation on your behalf.

Speak to our team today by calling 0808 231 6370 or using our online contact form.