Breast reduction is a proven and safe procedure, but at the same time, it is a major cosmetic surgery that will entail some recovery time.
Patients undergoing a breast reduction should have a clear idea of what to expect during the breast reduction recovery process so they can be well-prepared for it.
The patient should be ready to follow all the post-op instructions provided by the surgeon and keep a check of the incision sites for any signs of infection during the breast reduction recovery period. Taking care of the incisions and avoiding infection can help to improve the appearance of breast reduction scars over time and cut down healing time.
Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Farah Naz Khan provides breast reduction surgery to patients in Dallas, Texas, and surrounding communities and towns in this sparkling area of Texas.
The First Two Weeks
Some bruising and swelling is likely to occur during the initial recovery period, but will usually subside in a few weeks. The patient may use a moisturizer on the breasts to mitigate any itching and dryness, but avoid applying it directly to the incision sites.
Patients should diligently follow all post-operative instructions from the surgeon to minimize discomfort and speed up the healing process.
For the first few weeks after breast reduction cosmetic surgery, the patient will be required to wear a special surgical bra (after the gauze and dressings are removed). She should wear this bra all the time, except when bathing. Stitches will be removed in one to two weeks after the surgery.
Breast reduction patients should avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for two to four weeks after surgery. Most women, depending on their nature of work outside the home, can return to their workplace within 10 to 14 days. Patients should abstain from sexual activity for a few weeks, as sexual arousal can cause inflammation around the incisions.
The First Few Months
Any contact with the breasts should be gentle for at least one month following breast reduction surgery. The patient should be aware that her breasts could swell and become tender during the first menstrual period of the breast reduction recovery process.
Furthermore, some women may experience intermittent pain for a few months, especially during menstruation. The surgeon can prescribe mild pain medications to alleviate these symptoms and make her recovery as comfortable as possible.
Change of sensation in the breast skin and nipple area is a common side effect of the breast reduction surgery. Some women may experience numbness of the breast and nipple for up to a year following the surgery, while others may experience hypersensitivity in the breast area. It is necessary to keep in mind that, in rare cases, these altered sensations can be permanent.
As the breast tissue is significantly disrupted during surgery, it may take six months to a year before the swelling fully subsides and the final breast reduction surgery results are established.
Breast Reduction Scars
Breast reduction scars are often permanent and may initially appear lumpy and red for several months before fading to thin white lines. Incisions are usually placed in locations that would allow a patient to wear low-cut tops and swim suits without revealing the scars.
However, the appearance of breast reduction scars depends primarily on the surgical technique used. Board certified female plastic surgeon and dedicated Dr. Farah Naz Khan receives patients from Dallas, Texas, and other cities and neighborhoods in this part of the state for breast reduction surgery.
To schedule a consultation with Board Certified Dallas Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Farah Khan please call 469-437-5426 or click here to contact us.