If you have made the decision to have breast reduction surgery, you are probably feeling some mixed emotions. It may give you a sense of excitement knowing the pain and discomfort associated with large breasts will soon be coming to an end and you will be much more comfortable. At the same time, you may be feeling some anxiety about your impending procedure, especially if this is the first time you are having surgery.
To help calm any fears, below are some tips to prepare for a breast reduction surgery:
Have A Transportation Plan
On the day of your breast reduction, you will be receiving general anesthesia to keep you asleep during your surgery. You will not be able to drive yourself home when you’re released from the outpatient surgery center. It’s important to make a plan in advance for a family member or a friend to drive you home post surgery. The surgery center will not allow an uber or hired driver to drive you home for safety concerns.
Clear Your Calendar
Recovering from a breast reduction surgery takes time. If you attend school or have a job, it is recommended to take one to two weeks off to recover. If you are a mom or caretaker, you’ll need extra help around the house to help with your children and chores, as it is pertinent to rest and relax so that your body can naturally heal.
Prepare Your Recovery Location
Post breast reduction surgery, you will not be able to sleep on your stomach. You will need a location and set up where you can sleep on your back, propped up with pillows, or on your side. Some breast reduction patients prefer to sleep in a recliner. If you do not own a recliner, there are options to rent one for the period during recovery. Try to prepare for the best sleeping and resting positions, in a convenient location, that will make you most comfortable.
Extra Help
You will be limited to your movement and lifting objects when recovering from surgery. It’s important to enlist family and friends to help with basic activities. It might also be beneficial to stock the house with food, meal plan and freeze easy options that can be heated in the oven. While it may be uncomfortable to ask for help, the extra hands will be necessary and beneficial.
Get Healthy
Surgery can take a toll on your body. The healthier you are before surgery, the faster you will recover. Try to take the weeks before surgery to increase exercise, eat healthy, take your vitamins and supplements, drink a lot of water, and cut down on alcohol.
If You Smoke, It’s Time to Quit
Smoking is dangerous if you’re undergoing surgery. Smoking can restrict blood vessels, making it harder for Dr. Comizio to perform your breast reduction, as well as complicating your recovery process. It’s important to inform Dr. Comizio if you smoke and be honest with her about the frequency. If needed, and her team can help with enrolling in a smoking cessation program so that you can have the best possible surgical and recovery experience.
Consult with Dr. Comizio
Dr. Comizio is here to help you before, during, and after your breast reduction surgery. If you have questions about how to prepare for your procedure, please ensure to ask her during your consultation so she can review your pre and post-op instructions with you. Her team is always readily available to answer any questions – simply call the office and ask to speak with one of our knowledgeable staff about pre-surgery preparation tips at (973) 775-9248.
