After Breast Reduction Surgery: Your Recovery
For hundreds of thousands of women with disproportionately large, pendulous breasts, breast reduction surgery has proven to be little short of a lifesaver. While many people believe that naturally large breasts are a blessing, they can be a curse for many women, causing physical pain, emotional distress, and constant embarrassment and self-consciousness. Plastic surgeon Constance Barone is pleased to offer breast reduction surgery of the most surpassing standard to such women and to give them the opportunity to transform their lives.
Although breast reduction offers a multitude of benefits, it is still a major surgical procedure that involves potential risks, side effects, and a significant healing period. Dr. Barone is a firm believer in the value of patient education, and she devotes ample time to making sure that patients understand what to expect before, during, and after breast reduction surgery before they commit to undergoing the procedure. It is for this reason that, during confidential consultations at her office in San Antonio, breast reduction recovery is discussed in detail.
We invite you to read the following general information about breast reduction recovery and then meet with Dr. Barone to learn more about what your specific recovery period might entail.
The Patient’s Role in Breast Reduction Recovery
Before you commit to undergoing breast reduction, it is important that you understand how involved you must be in your own recovery. Although you will be asked to avoid strenuous activities during your healing period, recovering from plastic surgery is not a passive activity. Dr. Barone will provide you with post-surgical instructions that you must follow diligently to ensure the most efficient and comfortable recovery, as well as the best results, possible.
On the day of your surgery, you must arrange to have someone drive you to and from our practice as you will be unable to drive yourself. Although you will most likely be able to return home on the day of your surgery, you will be groggy from anesthesia and will have drains placed in your incision sites to prevent the build-up of fluids. You may also want to arrange to have someone help you with chores around your house for a few days after your surgery, as you will want to avoid any activities beyond light walking.
During your breast reduction recovery, you should:
- Take brief walks around the house to prevent the formation of blood clots
- Elevate your upper body, even when you are sleeping
- Take all medications as advised
- Not raise your arms above your head until you have been told you can do so by Dr. Barone
- Drink plenty of water and other liquids
- Wear your compression garments
- Not take a bath until Dr. Barone says it is okay to do so
- Avoid exercise and other strenuous activities beyond light walking
- Eat a healthy diet that is low in sodium
Learn More about Recovering from Breast Reduction Surgery
If you would like to learn more about the recovery period after breast reduction surgery, please contact the plastic surgery practice of Dr. Constance M. Barone today.