Tag: breast reduction recovery

Recovery after Breast Reduction Surgery
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Recovery after Breast Reduction Surgery

Tips for a Smoother Recovery after Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast Reduction is a plastic surgery procedure that can help you reduce the discomfort associated with large, heavy breasts that are not proportionate to the rest of your anatomy. The surgery can be a useful solution for women dealing with discomfort associated with overly large breasts. You will need to prepare and allow adequate time for your recovery after Breast Reduction. Most people assume that finding the right surgeon and getting the surgery done is all it takes to get optimal results. After the surgery, comes the recovery phase which requires some preparation in advance. If you ignore the instructions of your surgeon during the recovery phase, you might end up dealing with complications that could affect the results of the procedure. The Breast reduction itself usually takes 2 to 3 hours. However, you need to be well prepared for the next month ahead so you can heal properly and enjoy the results of the procedure.

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon who performs breast surgery procedures in Sydney and Wollongong NSW. His experience and techniques aim to bring out optimal Breast Reduction surgery results.

Guide to Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction

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What to do Before Breast Reduction Surgery – preparing for a Smoother Recovery

Many people only think about the recovery phase after they have had the surgery. With the right preparation, you can have a smooth recovery and be ready for a good result. You can arrange for someone in advance to help you around the house during the initial phases of recovery, organise the right amount of time off from work and take the essential steps that will help you with the recovery. Here are a few things that can come in handy:

  • Nutrition is vital to a good recovery.  Eating nutritious meals with more protein and taking supplements & multivitamins prior to surgery can help the healing process
  • Make sure to stock up your fridge with healthy, home-cooked, and nutritional meals that you can simply reheat and eat after surgery. You don’t want to be eating anything unhealthy that is high in sodium as it will slow down the healing process and worsens swelling. Make sure to choose balanced options and incorporate protein into every single meal. A high-fibre diet is also a good idea after the surgery to help prevent constipation
  • Make sure to get your comfy clothes ready for the first few weeks of recovery. You won’t fancy doing your laundry when you are recovering. You should have comfortable, and breathable clothes to wear during the recovery period that are easy to take on and off
  • Prepare your cosy resting space in advance. This will be where you will be spending most time after the surgery. You should have everything you could possibly need within your reach. Think snacks, meds, entertainment options, chargers and anything that you think will come in handy. Move anything stored up high to easy reach

 

The First Day after Breast Reduction Surgery

The first day after breast reduction surgery is essentially the first day of recovery. After the surgery, you will be under the effects of anaesthesia. You might feel quite groggy for a few hours after you wake up. If you are experiencing any pain and nausea, let the staff know so they can make the necessary arrangements to make you feel as comfortable as possible. Make sure you have arranged for someone responsible in advance to drive you home as driving post-surgery is not possible.

Once you recover from the effects of the anaesthesia, you will be handed a list of instructions to follow during the recovery phase. It will cover incision care, diet, activity, prescription meds, and follow-up scheduled visits.

Your incisions will be covered in bandages and a compression support bra. In some cases, Dr Hunt might place drains as well to help you get rid of the excess fluid that might accumulate at the level of the surgical incisions. You won’t be able to see your incisions on the first day. Aim at resting completely. This should be your only focus on day one.

Gentle movement and walking soon after surgery can help prevent blood clots.

The First Week after Breast Reduction Surgery

It is important to take the first two weeks off from work and stay clear of any other major commitments. This will give you the due time to rest and recover. While you might start to feel better in about 5 to 7 days, it is important to rest during the initial weeks of recovery. During this time, stay clear of strenuous activities, and heavy lifting, eat well and drink plenty of fluids.

You might also be dealing with post-surgical discomfort and a bit of pain. It shouldn’t be something unbearable and is generally well controlled by the prescription medications. You might feel a bit of tightness in the chest area. Please take your pain meds on time as prescribed if you want to feel comfortable during the recovery phase.

Read all the instructions given to you thoroughly to ensure you don’t miss anything. If you don’t understand something, reach out to your medical team and find out. Make sure to follow all the instructions regarding incision care and prevention of infections.  Arrange for someone to help you around the house for the first few days and aim at resting as much as possible – a friend or you can hire home help.

The First Month after Breast Reduction Surgery

You are going to see significant changes during the first month of recovery. As your incisions heal, you will begin to feel like yourself again. You will be glad that your back, neck and shoulder pain has reduced. Your clothes will start to fit better and you will be able to move more freely.

While you can enjoy the results, it is important to remember that you are still in the initial stages of healing. Hence, it is important to stay clear of all sorts of strenuous activities. You can return to your work two weeks after the surgery. If your job is physically demanding, you might need to take some additional time off.

You can begin low impact exercises once the initial 2 to 3 weeks have passed and Dr Hunt has given you approval. You might be tempted to wear tight-fitting clothes, but stick to soft fabrics and loose-fitting options.

Once your incisions are fully healed – around 6 to 8 weeks, you can also start using silicone-based scar treatment products on incisions to help minimise the appearance of scars.

During the first month of the surgery, your body is working very hard to heal and recover. As time passes by, you will continue to see the results improve. It might take you up to 12 months to see the final outcome of the surgery. If you follow Dr Hunt’s instructions and take proper care of yourself, you will have a smooth and fast recovery.

How to Care for Yourself at Home after Breast Reduction Surgery

Here are some general guidelines that will help you with at-home recovery – Always follow the advice of your own surgeon:

1.     Activity

  • Get eight hours of sleep at night and rest throughout the day as needed
  • Avoid lifting anything heavy for the first two weeks as it will put a strain on your incisions. It includes all sorts of heavy bags, containers, briefcases, backpacks, dog food bags, cat litter, vacuum cleaners, or a child
  • Make sure to take your surgeon’s advice when it comes to driving. Till then, arrange for someone to drive you
  • You can take your shower a day after your bandages and drains are removed. It will generally happen within the first week. Just be careful and avoid getting your incisions wet
  • Take 2 to 3 weeks off work based on the nature of your job
  • Consult your surgeon about when it is ok for you to have intimate relations and resume sexual activity

2.     Diet and Fluids

  • Make sure to eat home-cooked nutritious meals that are low in sodium and high in protein. Avoid getting packaged foods if you can.
  • If your stomach gets upset, stick to bland, low-fat foods such as boiled rice, chicken, toast, and yoghurt
  • Drink fluids to keep your body hydrated, flush out the toxins, and help get rid of excess fluid build-up
  • Include fibre in your diet as it will help prevent constipation and strained bowel movements which are common post any kind of surgery. You can also take a mild laxative. Or a fibre supplement after consulting Dr Hunt

3.     Medicines

  • Your surgeon will guide you in terms of taking the right medicines. Make sure to follow the instructions closely
  • Stay clear of aspirin and any other blood-thinning medications post surgery if you wish to prevent excessive bruising
  • Take pain medicines exactly as directed if you want to have a smoother recovery and prevent any pain, discomfort, and infections
  • Avoid taking any over-the-counter medications without consulting  your surgeon first
  • If your pain medication is leading to nausea or an upset stomach, you could take your meds after meals
  • If your surgeon has prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed to avoid complications

4.     Incision Care

  • Stick to all the instructions given by your surgeon in regard to incision care
  • If you have tape on your incisions, let it fall off naturally
  • You can cover the incisions with gauze if they keep rubbing against your clothing and make you feel uncomfortable
  • Gently wash the treatment site with warm, soapy water, and pat it dry – Most surgeons advise against having a hot bath until you are fully healed
  • Wear a compression bra that holds your bandages in pace, helps reduce post-operative swelling, and boosts healing. The recommendation is to wear a bra for a minimum of four weeks
  • Don’t use any products containing hydrogen peroxide or alcohol

5.     Exercise

  • You must limit all sorts of strenuous exercises and heavy lifting for a minimum of two to four weeks
  • Take short gentle walks every single day. Do not overexert yourself and take a break as needed. Try to walk a bit more than a day before. Walking will promote blood flow and can speed up healing
  • Avoid strenuous activities, such as bicycle riding, jogging, weight lifting, or aerobic exercise
  • You can start stretching exercises and normal activities after two to three weeks. Make sure to consult with your surgeon before resuming your regular workout routine

6.     Other Instructions

  • You may want to use a wrapped cold pack on your breasts for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Be careful and don’t ice burn yourself. Always wrap the cold pack in a towel
  • Most patients will have a few drains at the level of the incision site. Take care of them as needed. Come in for a follow-up appointment for the removal of drains as instructed
  • Sleep with your head in an elevated position to promote proper blood flow and prevent post-operative swelling
  • Avoid any vaping or smoking, alcohol, and caffeinated beverages as they can worsen the bruising and swelling
  • Do not skip your follow-up appointments under any circumstances. These appointments give your surgeon a chance to overview your progress and ensure you are healing at the right pace
  • Wear a compression bra for at least 6 to 8 weeks after the surgery if not longer.
  • Prepare your resting and recovery space in advance. Make sure you have a few extra pillows at hand, all your necessities are within your arm’s reach and you have someone to help you around the house for at least the first week

When to Call for Help during Recovery after Breast Reduction

You need to call for help if you experience any of the following symptoms or warning signs during the recovery phase:

  • loss of consciousness
  • sudden chest pain
  • shortness of breath
  • coughing up blood
  • extreme pain that doesn’t improve with pain meds
  • loose stitches
  • incision becomes open
  • bleeding from the incision site
  • infection – indicated by pus or a bad smell
  • extreme redness and warmth near the incision site
  • pus draining from the incisions
  • fever

Watch out for these signs and immediately call for help if any of the above-mentioned symptoms occur.

Further Reading about Breast Reduction Surgery

Medical References about Recovery after Breast Reduction

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

dr jeremy hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is optimal for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and, through his guidance, can achieve good results.

Dr Hunt’s personal, one-on-one service and attention to detail has given thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia the aesthetic results they desire.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the prestigious University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from some of the world’s very best plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If breast reduction is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.

Exercising after Breast Reduction
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Exercising after Breast Reduction

When to Resume Exercising after Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery is a good option for both men and women whose excessively large breasts are a cosmetic concern and lead to back, neck, and shoulder pain. The surgery is also known as reduction mammoplasty. The surgical procedure involves the removal of skin, fat, and excess tissue to minimise the size of breasts and give you a more proportionate body. Over time, the surgical techniques have improved, and the discomfort after the surgery is greatly reduced. If you are an exercise fan, you probably want to know how soon you can resume exercising after breast reduction surgery. There is a right way to return to your exercise routine after the surgery. First, you need to ensure that your tissues have healed fully.

Dr Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon who performs breast surgery procedures in Sydney NSW. His techniques aim to bring out optimal results and reduce the recovery period.

Guide to Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction

Breast Reduction

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Post-Surgery Care after Breast Reduction

Swelling and bruising are common side effects after any kind of surgical procedure including breast reduction surgery. In order to minimise the swelling, it is recommended to sleep on your back and keep it in an elevated position.

Starting an exercise routine too soon after a breast reduction surgery will disrupt the healing process and lead to an increased risk of swelling and bruising. Once the initial two weeks have passed, you can resume light walking. Light walking will not cause any form of straining on your chest and can prevent blood clotting.

Listen to Your Body when Resuming Exercising After Breast Reduction

Once your doctor gives you a go, you can return to your usual exercise routine. It is important to start slow with low impact workouts such as walking, elliptical, or stationary bike, and then gradually build up your strength. Always listen to your body while working out. At any point, if you experience any pain, discomfort, breathlessness or dizziness, take a break and drink some water. Nothing is worth ruining the results of the surgery.

Exercising after Breast Reduction

Until you are sure that you are thoroughly healed, you need to avoid all sorts of exercise routines that involve the action of the chest muscles. Stay clear of aerobic activities such as rowing, running, swimming, or chest workouts till you are fully healed.

Generally, you need to take a break for one to two months after the surgery. However, it is important to remember that every individual heals at a different pace.

 

Considerations and Precautions

You need to listen to Dr Hunt’s instructions when it comes to post surgery healing. You will need to wear a compression garment for a period of six to eight weeks. It helps with the swelling, keeps your breasts supported and offers protection.

Any sports that might cause a blow to the chest such as football, soccer, and basketball should be avoided for four to six weeks in order to prevent any kind of injury to the breasts. When you start to work out, pay attention to the following signs: shortness of breath, chest pains, and heart beating out of rhythm. If you experience any of them, you need to stop.

Most patients will experience fatigue after breast reduction surgery or any other surgical procedure. Anything over the top can lead to serious complications. Always be on the lookout for the signs of infections such as redness, drainage, heat, odours, and swelling that can develop after the surgery. Reach out to Dr Hunt immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

Timeline for Exercise after Breast Reduction Surgery

It is crucial to remember that every single individual heals at a different pace. It is important to be patient with your body after the surgery. Here is a general overview of what to expect in the weeks following the surgery:

Week 1 to 2 Post Breast Reduction Surgery

Now you can take walks. Do not overexert yourself. A slow, ten-to-fifteen-minute walk will suffice. Light walking will prevent blood clotting, and stiffness, and can make you feel better. During this time, aim at sleeping at least eight hours a night and rest during the day. Light activity during the initial two weeks will improve the oxygen levels in your body, boost blood circulation, minimise blood clotting, relieve your discomfort, and release endorphins in your body.

Week 2 to 4 Post Breast Reduction Surgery

By the end of week two, you will be able to resume most of your household activities. This is the time when you will be allowed to go back to work (if you don’t have a physically intensive job). You can also begin light, lower body workouts that don’t cause any form of straining on your chest. It is also a great time to increase the duration of your workouts. Make sure to invest in a good quality sports bra while working out. At any point if you feel tired and out of breath, take a break and rest.

Week 4 to 6 Post Breast Reduction Surgery

At this point in your recovery phase, you will begin to feel like yourself again. Most people can resume moderate-intensity workouts at this point. Always check in with Dr Hunt before doing so. Chest exercises are still a big no at this point because your tissues are still healing.

Week 6 to 8 Post Breast Reduction Surgery

Chances are, you will be healed completely by this point and you can return to your pre-surgery exercise routine. Start slow and gradually build your strength up. It is ideal to work with a professional who specialises in people who have just undergone the surgery. Slow and steady is the right way to return to your usual workout routine.

Dos and Don’ts of Exercising after Breast Reduction Surgery

Now that we have discussed the exercise timeline and general precautions, let’s look at a few dos and don’ts of exercising after breast reduction surgery:

Dos

·       Walking

Walking every single day is highly recommended after any kind of surgical procedure including breast reduction surgery. It is beneficial for you and can make you feel healthy and happy.

·       Stretching

Stretching can also work wonders for the tightness and stiffness in your body, once your incisions are healed. Gentle stretching workouts help your muscles to stay healthy, repair damage and help with stiffness. Make sure to get confirmation from Dr Hunt prior to starting stretching. Begin with a basic five-minute stretch and gradually shift to a more intensive exercise routine.

·       Consult Dr Hunt

Always consult with Dr Hunt before starting any kind of workout routine. Stick to all the instructions given by Dr Hunt. At any point, if you experience the following: shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue, take a break.

Don’ts

·       Avoid Jogging in Initial Recovery Stages

If you are used to jogging every single day, it is very hard to give it up even if it is for a few weeks. However, you have to quit jogging for at least six weeks of recovery. Jogging can put a lot of pressure on your incisions, stitches, and chest muscles.

·       Avoid Lifting Weights

Weight lifting is an amazing way to pack on muscle and look toned. It is advised to avoid lifting weights or anything heavier than 2 kg for at least four to six weeks after the surgery. When you do decide to lift weights, do not expect yourself to go back to your pre-surgery strength. Start slow and gradually build up your strength.

Tips for a Smoother Recovery

  • Focus on resting as much as you can. A good 8-hour sleep coupled with naps throughout the day is essential for recovery
  • Always sleep on your back with your head in an elevated position
  • Make sure you have someone to help you around the house for the first few days post breast reduction surgery
  • Do not take baths, soak in hot tubs, dive in swimming pools or visit hot saunas for at least 2 weeks after the surgery
  • Eat home-cooked, healthy meals. Make sure that they are packed with fibre and low in sodium
  • Keep your body well hydrated by drinking at least 2 to 3 litres of water a day
  • Quit smoking, alcohol, and avoid consuming blood-thinning medications during the initial phases of recovery
  • Take a minimum of two weeks off from work to rest and recover. If you have a physically intensive job, take more time off
  • Take all the medication prescribed on time
  • Take special care of your incisions
  • Walk regularly for 10 to 15 minutes at a slow pace to prevent blood clots and boost the healing process
  • Wear compression garments to minimise swelling and bruising
  • Don’t skip any of your follow up appointments

FAQs about Breast Reduction Surgery

Here is a list of frequently asked questions we get regarding the breast reduction surgery and recovery:

How extensive is the recovery phase after breast reduction?

  • Most patients will recover fully in around 4 to 8 weeks. This is just a generalised timeline and everyone will heal at a different pace.

When can I start working out after breast reduction surgery?

  • The recommendation is to wait for at least six to eight weeks before getting back to your exercise routine. Even when you do get back, start slow and gradually build up the intensity.

What exercises are suitable to do immediately after breast reduction?

  • The only kind of exercise you are allowed to do immediately after the surgery is walking. You can start walking a day after the surgery. Start with 10 to 15 minutes a day and gradually build up the pace or duration.

When can I return back to my usual activities after the breast reduction surgery?

  • You can start walking almost immediately after the surgery. Most people are cleared to do housework in 2 to 3 weeks after the surgery and can also go back to work. If you have a physically intensive job, you have to wait for more. Ideally, you should wait for 6 weeks before returning back to your full-blown exercise routine.

What happens if I exercise too soon after breast reduction surgery?

  • It is not recommended to exercise too soon post-surgery. Otherwise complications such as swelling, bleeding, and other side effects can occur. Keep in mind that this can ruin the results of the surgery.

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How long will the swelling last after breast reduction surgery?

  • Most of the swelling will be gone in about six months’ time after the breast reduction surgery. The residual swelling can linger on for a few months.

Can I skip on the compression garment after breast reduction surgery?

  • You shouldn’t if you don’t want your swelling to linger on for longer. Similarly, not wearing a compression garment will slow down the healing process. Hence, it is not recommended.

What kinds of bras are suitable to wear post breast reduction surgery?

  • You will be wearing a compression bra for the first four to six weeks after breast reduction surgery. Then, it is best to transition into a sports bra for a month. After that, you can wear any bra of your choice.

What foods should be avoided after breast reduction surgery?

  • Try to eat home-cooked meals as much as possible. Stay clear of salty foods as they can lead to prolonged swelling.

When will my incisions heal post breast reduction surgery?

  • Generally speaking, incisions heal around the third-week marker. However, everyone is different and might heal at a faster or slower pace.

When can I see results after breast reduction surgery?

  • You will be able to see a difference immediately after the surgery. Most of the swelling will be gone by the eight-week marker and you will be able to see the results. It is important to remember that the residual swelling will take some time to go away and might take a few months to subside.

Further Reading about Breast Reduction Surgery

Medical References about Breast Reduction

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Dr Jeremy Hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing cosmetic and plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is optimal for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and, through his guidance, can achieve good results.

Dr Hunt’s personal, one-on-one service and attention to detail has given thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia the aesthetic results they desire.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the prestigious University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from some of the world’s very best plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If breast reduction is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.