Once you make the decision to have breast reduction surgery, it is natural to start thinking through the before, during and after of the experience. Following recovery recommendations is key to fast and long-term healing. The recovery is fairly simple and straight-forward, especially when following the suggested tips below:
1. 2 Weeks Off
It’s important to prepare for post surgery by planning to take a full two weeks off from your regular daily activities to rest after your breast reduction. Some women use their vacation time to heal and decide to get extra help around the house helping with children, household responsibilities or strenuous activities. Allowing yourself to rest for a full two weeks is very important for proper healing and fast recovery. If you push yourself too much over those two weeks it can prolong the process and could potentially create challenges.
2. Pain Medication
Post surgery, you will receive very specific information on pain medications and healing techniques. Surgery involves incisions and tissue removal, therefore, there is expected discomfort when waking up from surgery and in the next few days after the procedure. The best way to stay on top of this pain is to take the pain medications exactly as prescribed. Pain from surgery is variable. Some women recover from surgery by taking Tylenol and others require stronger pain medicine. Your breast reduction postoperative instructions should clearly set your expectations regarding what pain medicine you can take after surgery.
3. Surgical Bra
Immediately after breast reduction surgery, a surgical bra will be placed on the breasts. This garment is designed to help reduce swelling after the procedure. It is required to wear the surgical bra all day, every day until your doctor provides instructions to remove it. Typically the bra can be removed for short periods of time at first, such as showering or bathing.
4. No Heavy Lifting or Strenuous Activity
After breast reduction surgery, there will be sutures that need to heal and your body will need to adapt to a new form. There will also be swelling and inflammation, as the body works to heal from the trauma of surgery. To ensure the body starts to heal properly, it’s important to refrain from any heavy lifting or strenuous activity. This means avoiding normal activities, including lifting children, household items, exercise or anything that might cause strain on the chest or incision area. Taking it easy and letting your body to heal will allow the ability to resume those activities sooner rather than later.
5. Don’t Smoke
Smoking isn’t only bad for overall health, it makes healing from surgery more difficult. It is critical to quit smoking tobacco products or e-cigarettes prior to surgery so surgery and recovery is not complicated due to the negative effects of nicotine. If you need help quitting, Dr, Comizio and her staff can offer support.
Your initial consultation, surgery day, and follow-up appointments will keep you informed of the entire procedure. The office is also available at any time to answer any additional questions or concerns. Simple call (973) 775-9248.
