The recovery journey after a breast reduction surgery can be challenging. Sometimes it can feel as if a load of weight has been removed from your shoulders. That’s because it’s true! It can be exciting but, just like any other surgery, you’ll need to follow your plastic surgeon’s instructions and give yourself plenty of time to rest. Here are five of our best recovery tips to ensure your breast reduction with us is smooth and successful.
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Recline, Don’t Lay Down
It’s common to experience swelling for several months after breast reduction surgery. While your breasts may be smaller after the procedure, swelling may prevent you from seeing your final results for even up to one year. Although you can’t completely get rid of swelling during your recovery, you can take steps to minimize it. The position in which you sleep and sit plays a huge role in minimizing swelling. It is recommended to keep your chest raised as much as possible within the first few weeks after surgery. Rather than lying on your back while sleeping, put at least two pillows underneath your torso and sleep in a propped-up position. You should also avoid sleeping on your side or stomach – if you do this normally, make sure to surround yourself with pillows to keep yourself from rolling over in the night.
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Wear Your Surgical Support Bra
Our team will provide a specialized surgical bra to wear throughout your recovery. Wear it as much as possible, day and night – it helps support your breasts and relieve tension from the incisions, as well as compresses the area to reduce swelling. Finally, it also helps prevent fluid buildup which can lead to complications.
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Manage Pain With Medications
Different people handle pain differently. In any case, you’ll be given a prescription for pain medications and instructions on taking them. It can be tempting to try and push through and tell yourself you don’t need them, but it’s important to take them in order to get the rest you need – if you’re in pain, it can be difficult to sleep and recover. You’ll also be given anti-inflammatory medications to help keep swelling down – it’s equally as important to take these according to instructions.
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Eat Simple Clean Foods and Drink a Lot of Water
After surgery, you’ll likely have some nausea from the anesthesia. It can be helpful to eat some simple crackers or bread to ease your stomach. Throughout the next couple weeks, make sure to stick with a simple diet with plenty of protein, veggies, and nutrition. Consider asking for help preparing some meals ahead of surgery so you don’t need to cook. Finally, make sure to drink plenty of water and clear fluids to stay hydrated. Minimize caffeine- it’s dehydrating and restricts blood flow!
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Minimize Physical Activity
Elevating your heart rate after surgery can increase swelling as well as risk of bleeding, and make it harder for your body to recover. Make sure to minimize your activity level for the first month and avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling heavy objects. This includes children and pets, so plan accordingly if it’s relative to you. It’s good to walk lightly around the house to keep blood moving, but wait until cleared by your plastic surgeon before returning to heavier activities like running or walking.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re interested in learning more about breast reduction, contact our Indialantic, or Melbourne, FL office by calling or filling out our online form. Our board-certified plastic surgeons can help you explore your best options for breast surgery and restore greater confidence.
