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If you are planning on having breast reduction surgery, you will want to know what to expect when it comes to the recovery process. To prepare, you should know how to control your pain, take care of your incision, and when it will be ok to return to your normal activities. Knowing these things will help you have a quicker and healthier recovery.

The First Steps in Recovery

The very first thing that you will do following your surgery, is to read the postoperative instructions. These instructions will tell you how to take care of the wound. This will include any medications that you should keep on the area as well as how you should bandage it. Dr. Deane will give you detailed post-op instructions that include what activities to avoid and when to come in for a follow-up appointment. 

The First Week

After the procedure, you will have gauze and dressings that cover the area. You must keep this area clean at all times. It is a good idea to have a friend or family member help you through this process for the first week or so. You will have stitches as well as drain tubes during the first week. Once these are removed, you will still need to make sure that you wear the post-surgical bra. This will help to minimize swelling and improve blood circulation. Wearing the bra will also help promote proper healing of the breasts. 

2 Weeks after Recovery

After you have been recovering for about two weeks, you will go in to have your stitches removed. You may see some bruising along with some swelling. It will go away over time. Depending on what you do for a living, you should be able to return to work during this time. Keep in mind that you will still need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for at least six weeks after the procedure.

Long Term Recovery

Some patients will need to keep in mind that they may have a different recovery than others that have had the same surgery. For example, you may feel tenderness and numbness in the area for up to a year. 

With the proper recovery procedures, you will have no trouble recovering from your breast reduction surgery. Just keep in mind that everyone recovers differently. You must take care of yourself during this time to aid in the recovery process.

If you are interested in breast reduction surgery, please call Dr. Leland Deane today at (615)441-7427 for a consultation appointment or fill out an online form.