More is not always better. Just ask any woman who was born well-endowed in the breast area. Everything from an aching back to sore shoulders are reasons women make the decision to reduce the size of their breast. According to research, breast reduction surgery was one of the most common cosmetic surgeries in 2019.
Breast reduction surgery is a medical procedure that reduces the size of a person’s breasts. While cosmetic, it is not as easy to have insurance cover the cost, so often it can take months of diet and exercise to then become eligible to get the surgery. Many people wait years after medical complaints before having the surgery.
The surgery itself is not that long. But the anticipation before it and the recovery after it takes a lot of time to process. Like any surgery, recovering can be difficult if not well-planned. Most people are generally allowed to leave the hospital or facility 2-3 hours after the operation, as long as they show no complications. Before leaving the hospital, you will receive recovery instructions and medications.
Here are some tips on how to recover after breast reduction surgery:
- Rest, Rest, Rest
The first formula to recover after a breast reduction surgery is to get the necessary rest you need. The more you rest, the better you will feel because it will provide your body an opportunity to heal itself on the inside and you will avoid putting a strain on your muscles (you have no idea how many other muscles are attached to your breast). Don’t try lifting heavy objects (including babies). You’ll be able to get back to your daily routine in about 2 to 3 weeks.
- Follow Your Medications
Take the medicines as prescribed by the doctor. They’ll make the recovery pain-free. If you are on prescribed medications before the breast reduction surgery, you should advise your doctor to ensure there would be no conflict with the medication you are provided post-op. If you find the prescribed medication makes you feel nauseous, you should consult your doctor and ask for an alternative.
- Eat a Healthy Diet
Generally, you can stick to your old diet if it’s healthy. Try eating bland and low-fat foods after the surgery. These include boiled chicken, plain rice, toast, and yogurt. Avoid drinking too much caffeine and alcohol. It’s common to experience stomach discomfort after a breast reduction surgery. So, if you find you’re suffering from constipation, you can ask your doctor for fiber supplements or mild laxatives.
- Properly Care for the Bandage
Take steps to retain the bandages as permitted by the doctor. Avoid wearing underwire bras for at least a month. Try finding loose clothes that don’t misplace your bandages. Change the bandage as needed, depending upon the guidelines of the doctor. Wash the area with warm water after every few days. Use clean bandages to cover the area.
- Exercise a Little
WIthout overexerting yourself, allow yourself to make small arm movements. Do a little walking daily and make small increases each week. Not making any movement or exercise routine can result in several other problems for you (i.e. stiffness and soreness). Instead of strenuous exercises, you could try simple stretches when your doctor allows you to do so.
- Visit Your Physician
WHen discharged, you will receive a follow-up visit with your doctor. It is important for your recovery to attend this appointment. Even if you feel alright, you should still meet with them to discuss how you feel and have the surgical area inspected.
A breast reduction surgery requires a few weeks of recovery. Don’t be in a rush and be honest with how your body is feeling during recovery. That is why the time after the surgery must not be taken lightly. You should avoid messing with the surgical area unless cleaning it. Be sure to immediately report to your doctor any changes that may concern you.
