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Breast Reduction Surgery Recovery- Timeline, Diet, & Lifestyle Changes

The recovery after breast surgery typically takes around 4-6 weeks. At Pristyn Care, we leverage advanced and safe techniques that are minimally invasive and have relatively shorter recovery times. We provide proper guidance and multiple follow-up consultations with the doctor for free. Book your consultation today.

The recovery after breast surgery typically takes around 4-6 weeks. At Pristyn Care, ... Read More

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    Dr. Rohit Devdutt Bavdekar (LkcatVgAb8)

    Dr. Rohit Devdutt Bavdek...

    MBBS, MD, DNB-Plastic Surgery
    30 Yrs.Exp.

    4.7/5

    30 + Years

    Bangalore

    Aesthetics and Plastic Surgeon

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    6366-527-613
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    Dr. Amol Gosavi (Y3amsNWUyD)

    Dr. Amol Gosavi

    MBBS, MS - General Surgery
    23 Yrs.Exp.

    4.7/5

    23 + Years

    Mumbai

    Laparoscopic Surgeon

    General Surgeon

    Proctologist.

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    6366-527-613
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    Dr. Devidutta Mohanty (Qx2Ggxqwz2)

    Dr. Devidutta Mohanty

    MBBS,MS, M. Ch- Plastic Surgery
    20 Yrs.Exp.

    4.5/5

    20 + Years

    Hyderabad

    Aesthetics and Plastic Surgeon

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    6366-527-613
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    Dr. Sasikumar T (iHimXgDvNW)

    Dr. Sasikumar T

    MBBS, MS-GENERAL SURGERY, DNB-PLASTIC SURGERY
    18 Yrs.Exp.

    4.7/5

    18 + Years

    Chennai

    Aesthetics and Plastic Surgeon

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  • Breast Reduction Surgery Recovery- An Overview

    In most cases, recovery after breast reduction usually happens in two phases- an early phase and a late phase. The short-term recovery will take around 3-4 weeks, and the long-term recovery may take around 3-6 months. The exact recovery duration will be different for each patient, depending on their individual cases. 

    If a significant reduction is required and an invasive technique is used, the recovery is usually longer than 6 weeks. However, if a minimal reduction is required and the technique is not highly invasive, the patient may be able to recover within 4 weeks. 

    Typically, surgery after effects will take around 3-4 months completely, and the final results will appear after that, i.e., in the 5th or 6th month. The final results after surgery depend on how well the patient follows the post-surgery care tips.

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    Week-to-Week Recovery Timeline After Breast Reduction

    Generally, breast reduction surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, which means the patient is sent home on the same day after a few hours. If a greater extent of modification is required, the patient may need an overnight stay so that the doctor’s team can monitor the recovery. The patient is sent home the next day after surgery. 

    The recovery timeline will be as below. 

    Week 1: 

    • The first week after surgery is usually the most uncomfortable when the pain is considerable and needs to be managed with heavy pain medications. 
    • There will be significant swelling and bruising in the treated area. 
    • A drainage tube is also placed in the treated area. Some blood and fluid drainage will occur in the first week. 
    • The patient is advised to wear a surgical bra or compression garment to reduce the swelling and support the muscles. 

    Week 2: 

    • The discomfort and swelling will persist but start to improve gradually. 
    • The drainage tubes and stitches will be removed in the second week. 
    • It’ll be safe for the patient to start wearing a soft support bra, but the compression garment needs to be worn at least 12 hours a day. 
    • Light activities, such as walking, are allowed, but the patient should avoid lifting, pushing, pulling, and other strenuous activities. 

    Week 3 to 4: 

    • The patient will start to feel better within 3 to 4 weeks, and there will be less discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the breasts. 
    • It’ll be fine to resume work or office in the 4th week. 
    • The surgical wound will start to heal at this point. 
    • The patient can walk and perform basic activities, but strenuous activities should still be avoided. 
    • Some adjustments will be made to the pain medication dosage. 
    • The patient can start wearing a regular support bra but should continue using the compression garment whenever possible. 

    Week 5 to 6: 

    • Most patients resume normal activities within 5 to 6 weeks. 
    • The patient still needs to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting. 
    • The swelling and bruising will continue to decrease.
    • The doctor might suggest using scar reduction cream or gels to improve the appearance of the scar. 
    • It’s safe for the patient to start driving again. 

    In the upcoming weeks, the patient can resume most activities gradually but still needs to be careful about exerting force while pulling or pushing. The patient will have to take some precautions for about 3-4 months to get the desired outcome.

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    Diet to Follow After Breast Reduction Surgery

    The doctor will advise a healthy and balanced diet to provide the body with enough energy to heal. 

    Here are some foods that patients should eat and avoid after breast reduction surgery. 

    Foods to Eat to Promote Healing:

    • Protein-rich foods such as lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, nuts, and legumes are crucial for tissue repair and collagen production. These foods boost the immune system and speed up the healing process. 
    • Fruits and vegetables, particularly those high in vitamins and minerals like berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower can support the healing process by reducing inflammation and providing antioxidants to the body.
    • Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread are rich in fiber and B vitamins, essential for promoting digestion and energy levels, and necessary for overall health and recovery.
    • Healthy fats found in foods such as avocados, nuts, and seeds can help reduce inflammation, support healing, provide energy, and maintain healthy skin.

    Foods to Avoid 

    • Alcohol consumption should be avoided, as it can slow down the body’s ability to repair tissue, increase the risk of bleeding, and cause other complications after surgery.
    • Caffeine, found in tea, coffee, and energy drinks, should be limited, as it can interfere with sleep, increase anxiety, and irritability, which may hinder the body’s healing process.
    • Processed foods, including chips, candy, and baked goods, should be avoided, as they are often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats that can exacerbate inflammation and slow the healing process.
    • Spicy foods should be avoided, as they can cause discomfort or irritation in the digestive system, increase inflammation, and delay healing.

    Lifestyle Changes Recommended After Breast Reduction

    For most women, breast reduction surgery is necessary to bring positive changes in their lives, physically and emotionally. For a faster and smoother recovery, the patient will have to make the following changes in their regular life. 

    • Exercise: Regular exercise is beneficial for overall health and can help maintain the results of breast reduction surgery. However, it is important to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks after surgery to allow the body to heal properly. Light exercise, such as walking, can be helpful in promoting blood flow and reducing the risk of blood clots.
    • Proper Posture: Good posture is essential for maintaining proper alignment and reducing strain on the neck, back, and shoulders. After breast reduction, it is important to avoid hunching over or slouching, which can put pressure on the incision sites and affect the final results of the surgery.
    • Bra Support: Wearing a supportive bra can help reduce strain on the breasts and provide comfort during the recovery period. It is recommended to wear a surgical or compression bra for the first few weeks after surgery, followed by a well-fitted supportive bra as the healing process progresses.
    • Avoid Smoking: Smoking has a direct impact on nerve health which interferes with the body’s healing process and increases the risk of complications after surgery. It’ll be best to avoid smoking or using tobacco products for several weeks before and after surgery.
    • Emotional Well-being: Breast reduction surgery can have a significant impact on a person’s emotional well-being. It is important to maintain a positive outlook and seek support from family, friends, or a mental health professional if needed.

    These changes will ensure an optimal recovery and help the patient to achieve the desired outcome from the procedure.

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    Exercises To Perform After Breast Reduction Surgery

    After breast reduction surgery, it is important to give the body adequate time to heal before engaging in any strenuous exercise or activity.  The following exercises can be beneficial in promoting healing, improving the range of motion, and strengthening the muscles around the chest area. 

    • Arm Circles: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and arms extended out to the sides. Slowly make small circles with the arms, gradually increasing the size of the circles. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions in each direction.
    • Shoulder Rolls: Sit or stand with arms relaxed at the sides. Slowly roll the shoulders forward and backward, keeping the arms relaxed. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions in each direction.
    • Wall Push-ups: Stand facing a wall with arms extended out at shoulder height, palms flat against the wall. Slowly bend the elbows and lower the body toward the wall, then push back up to the starting position. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions.
    • Chest Stretches: Stand in a doorway with arms extended out to the sides, palms flat against the doorframe. Lean forward slightly, feeling a stretch in the chest muscles. Hold for 15-30 seconds, then release.
    • Light Cardio: Walking, gentle cycling, or using an elliptical machine can help promote blood flow and improve cardiovascular health. It is important to start with light intensity and gradually increase as the body becomes stronger.

    It is important to avoid any exercises that strain the chest muscles excessively, such as heavy lifting, push-ups, or weightlifting, for at least 4-6 weeks after surgery. Don’t be hasty to resume all activities or ignore the pain.

    Dos & Don’ts After Breast Reduction

    Breast reduction surgery is a major surgical procedure that requires extensive post-operative care to prevent post-surgery complications and ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some common dos and don’ts that should be followed by the patients.

    Dos

    • Take the prescribed pain medications, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory medicines as directed. 
    • Wear a supportive surgical or compression bra for as long as required.
    • Keep the incision sites clean and dry.
    • Take adequate rest and avoid strenuous activity for at least 4-6 weeks.
    • Eat a healthy diet and stay hydrated to promote healing.
    • Take a shower when the bandages and drainage tubes are removed. 
    • Attend follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.

    Don’ts 

    • Scratch or poke the incisions even when the bandages are intact. 
    • Shower for the first 2 days after surgery. 
    • Swim in pools or use hot tubs or bathtubs. 
    • Lift heavy objects or engage in strenuous activities for at least 4-6 weeks after surgery.
    • Drive or operate machinery while taking pain medication until advised otherwise.
    • Smoke or use tobacco products for several weeks before and after surgery. 
    • Expose incision sites to direct sunlight for at least six months after surgery to prevent hyperpigmentation.
    • Apply creams, lotions, or ointments to the incision sites without the surgeon’s permission.
    • Ignore the signs of infection and other post-surgery complications, such as blood drainage, persistent high fever, swelling, etc.

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    Content Reviewed By
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    Dr. Rohit Devdutt Bavdekar
    30 Years Experience Overall
    Last Updated : April 2, 2024

    Our Patient Love Us

    • AT

      astha tiwari

      5/5

      Recently I took Treatment for Breast Reduction from Dr Rahul, it was a good and satisfactory experience - He explained all doubts and concerns clearly, I am very satisfied with results after 1 month, from 1st Consultation till today it was a comfortable journey, desired results are achieved ,i will recommend him to anyone looking for Plastic Surgery, best doctor in Pune

      City : PUNE
      Doctor : Dr. Rahul Bhadgale
    • AT

      Aanchal Tata

      5/5

      I am incredibly thankful to Pristyn Care for the exceptional breast surgery they performed. The doctor's expertise and attention to detail filled me with confidence throughout the process. The entire medical team was supportive and understanding, making my experience stress-free. The surgery was a success, and the post-operative care was exemplary. The results of the surgery have transformed my life, and I couldn't be happier. Pristyn Care's commitment to patient well-being and their exemplary services set them apart. I wholeheartedly recommend Pristyn Care for anyone seeking breast surgery.

      City : BANGALORE
    • HS

      Harshini Shandilya

      5/5

      Pristyn Care's expertise in breast surgery is unmatched. They guided me through the entire process and addressed all my questions. The procedure was performed with precision, and the results were outstanding. I highly recommend Pristyn Care for any breast-related concerns.

      City : HYDERABAD
    • SK

      Sonali Kanetkar

      5/5

      My experience with Pristyn Care for my breast surgery was nothing short of outstanding. The doctor's expertise and compassionate approach made me feel comfortable and confident in my decision. The surgical procedure was smooth, and the nursing staff provided excellent post-operative care. The results of the surgery exceeded my expectations, and I am thrilled with the transformation. Pristyn Care's professionalism and dedication to patient well-being are truly commendable. I am grateful to them for enhancing my life and self-confidence. I highly recommend Pristyn Care to anyone seeking breast surgery.

      City : PUNE