After Breast Reduction: Recovery, Results, Scars, and More

Posted August 27, 2024 in Breast Reduction, Recovery, Scarring

Breast reduction surgery can offer life-changing results, including relief from physical discomfort, a more balanced figure, and an enhanced sense of confidence. If you’re considering breast reduction, you likely have questions about what to expect after surgery. Below, we will answer the most common questions about life after breast reduction surgery so that you can feel informed and prepared for your procedure.

What can I expect for breast reduction recovery?

Here’s what you can typically expect for the recovery after breast reduction surgery.

Immediately Post-Surgery: After the surgery, you’ll spend some time in a recovery room where your vital signs will be monitored. Most patients will be able to go home the same day, but you’ll need a family member or friend to drive you. You should also have someone stay with you to help meet your needs while you’re recovering.
First Few Days: In the first few days, it’s common to experience swelling, bruising, and some pain. Pain after breast reduction is generally very tolerable; your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help you manage any discomfort. You’ll also be advised to wear a surgical bra to support your breasts and minimize swelling. Bandages and drains (if inserted) will be removed after a few days at your first follow-up visit.
First Week: Patients can typically resume most light activities within 4 to 7 days, but everyone heals at their own pace. Depending on your job, it will probably be 5 to 10 days before you’ll be healed enough to resume working. During this first week, avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities, and any movements that might strain your chest area.
2 to 3 Weeks: Stitches will be removed, and most patients can resume full activities, including exercise. Swelling and discomfort should be significantly reduced.
3 to 4 Months: It can take a few months for your body to fully recover and for the breasts to settle into their new shape. By 3 to 4 months after surgery, you should be completely recovered and enjoying your best results.

What will my breast reduction results be like?

Immediately after breast reduction, you’ll notice a difference in the size and weight of your breasts. Many patients report feeling relief from back, neck, and shoulder pain almost right away. While you’ll see a significant change immediately, it can take 3 to 4 months for your breasts to fully settle into their new shape. Swelling during early recovery will also interfere with seeing the final results.

Results from breast reduction are generally long-lasting; however, factors like weight fluctuations, aging, and pregnancy can affect the size and shape of your breasts over time. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle can help preserve your results long-term.

How visible will my breast reduction scars be?

Scarring occurs after any surgery, and breast reduction is no exception. Modern surgical techniques are designed to minimize scarring as much as possible. The type and location of scars you can expect will depend on the specific technique used during your surgery. Breast reduction scars are always placed inconspicuously so that they can be hidden by most clothing. They may be around the areola (blending with the edge), vertically down from the areola to the breast crease, and/or along the crease under the breast.

You will be provided with detailed instructions on how to care for your scars after surgery in order to prevent complications and minimize their appearance. Surgical scar care may include keeping the area clean and moisturized, avoiding direct sun exposure, and using silicone-based scar treatments or creams to promote healing. Scars are most visible in the first few months after surgery, but they typically fade significantly over time. While they may never disappear completely, they often become much less noticeable by a year or so after surgery.

Will I be able to breastfeed after breast reduction?

Breast reduction surgery may affect your ability to breastfeed, but this varies per individual based on the unique details of their procedure. In many cases women are still able to breastfeed afterward, but it’s common for a woman’s milk supply to be decreased if the nipple and areola were relocated during breast reduction surgery. If being able to breastfeed in the future is important to you, be sure to discuss this with your surgeon during your consultation. They can tailor the surgical technique to preserve as much milk-producing tissue as possible.

How much will my breasts be reduced, and can I choose the size?

The degree of reduction is customized to your body’s anatomy and your aesthetic goals. During your consultation, you should express your desired size, and your surgeon will aim to achieve a balanced, natural look that complements your overall physique. Visual aids (like before-and-after photos) will be employed to help you visualize potential outcomes. Bear in mind that the final size may vary slightly due to factors like healing, swelling, and how your body responds to the surgery. However, with clear communication between you both, your surgeon will strive to get as close to your desired outcome as possible and produce results that will enhance your appearance, comfort, and quality of life.

We hope these answers about breast reduction surgery have helped you feel more confident and prepared as you embark on this transformative journey. If you have any additional questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your surgeon—they’re there to guide you every step of the way.

If you’re looking for a plastic surgeon to perform your procedure, breast reduction surgery is one of Dr. Taleisnik’s specialties. Dr. Taleisnik is a board-certified plastic surgeon based in Orange County, California. To book a consultation with Dr. Taleisnik, call (657) 294-8375 or contact us online.