A reduction mammoplasty, more commonly referred to as a breast reduction surgery, is done by a plastic surgeon to reduce the size of large breasts. This may be recommended if you find that your large breasts are causing health and emotional issues, such as:
- Pain and discomfort
- Self-image issues
- Impaired ability to lead an active life
- Difficulty finding clothes that fit
- Chafing, rashes, and infections under the breasts
Enhance Your Quality of Life With a Breast Reduction Surgery
At our Edmonton clinic, we are committed to helping our patients live happy and healthy lives. Whether you’re looking for surgical cosmetic procedures such as breast reduction or liposuction, or you want a customized non-surgical cosmetic injectable treatment, we have the experience and knowledge to safely meet all your aesthetic needs.
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Your Total Guide to a Breast Reduction Recovery
Breast reduction surgery is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. Typically, it takes 3-5 hours to complete, depending on the breast size. During this surgery, your plastic surgeon will remove any excess breast tissue to achieve your desired breast size.
How long is the recovery? Typically, patients wait for 4-6 weeks for the swelling to subside and the final results are often fully visible within 3 months. While most patients get back to daily activities within 2 weeks, strenuous activity is not recommended for at least 8 weeks.
What to Expect Immediately After Your Breast Reduction
- Dressings and bandages will be applied to your incisions.
- A support bra or elastic bandage will be worn to minimize swelling and support your breasts as they heal.
- A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under your skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect.
- You may feel tired and have some breast pain. Your surgeon will give you an oral painkiller to ease you through the first few days after surgery.
- You’ll have to have a trusted family member or friend to drive you home and help you around the house for the first few days.
- You may feel pulling or stretching in the breast area
How to Take Care of Yourself Following a Breast Reduction Surgery
Before undergoing a breast reduction surgery, you must remember that while there is a typical recovery timeline, each patient recovers at a different pace. To get better as quickly as possible, here are some tips you should follow:
Activity
- Rest when you feel tired. Getting enough sleep is critical to helping your body heal.
- For approximately 14 days, avoid lifting anything that will make you strain. Don’t lift anything above your head for at least 3 weeks.
- It is usually okay to take a shower the day after your bandages and drain are removed. Talk to your surgeon first. DO NOT take a bath or soak in a hot tub for at least a month following your procedure.
- Typically, you can go back to work and your daily routine in 2-3 weeks, but this depends on what type of job you have. You can usually return to your regular gym routine in 2 months.
Diet
- Make sure to drink plenty of fluids.
- It’s common to have a change in bowel movements after your surgery. To avoid constipation, take a fibre supplement. Talk to your doctor if you haven’t had bowel movements in 2-3 days.
- Patients can return to their normal diets after surgery. If your stomach is upset, try low fat and plain food such as toast, rice, and broiled chicken.
Medicines
- Your surgeon will advise you if and when you can restart your medications. They’ll also give you instructions regarding any new medicines
- If you are taking blood thinners, be sure to talk to your doctor. They’ll tell you when it’s safe to restart the medications again. If you have any questions about your medication, it’s critical that you discuss them with your surgeon.
Exercise
- Try to walk a little each day and slowly increase the amount you walk. This is important because walking boosts blood flow and helps prevent constipation.
- Avoid any strenuous activities such as aerobic exercise, weight lifting, or jogging until your plastic surgeon says it’s okay.
- Your doctor will tell you when you can begin stretching and resume your normal exercise routine.
Follow Up Care is a Key Part of Your Treatment
Follow up care with your surgeon is key to keeping you safe. Be sure to go to all of the appointments and call your doctor if you’re having any problems, including:
- Pain that doesn’t get better even after you take pain medicine
- You have loose stitches or your incision has opened
- You are bleeding from the incision
- You have signs of an infection such as a fever, pus draining from your incision or increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness
Call Today
To find out more about the costs and benefits of a breast reduction surgery and how our plastic surgeon can help you achieve all your desired aesthetic goals, visit our clinic located at 8440 112 Street Northwest, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2P4.
Additionally, you can contact Dr. Ladak at 780-407-6691 or fill in our online contact form.
