Breast reduction is major cosmetic surgery procedure that will involve a considerable recovery time. The patient should know in advance about the estimated downtime and period of full recovery in order to prepare appropriately for it. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bryson Richards provides breast reduction to patients in Las Vegas, NV and surrounding communities.
Immediate Post-Op Phase
Following the breast reduction procedure, the surgeon will place drains below the skin in the incision areas to prevent fluid build-up. The drains will remain in place for about a week, and the surgeon will provide specific instructions about emptying the drain every day and measuring the amount of fluid collected.
The breasts will be wrapped in sterile dressings immediately after the breast reduction plastic surgery. These may have to be changed after one to two days, and will eventually be replaced with a surgical bra. The patient will be required to wear the surgical bra for several weeks to support healing.
First Two Weeks
Mild bruising and swelling will occur after the surgery, but will gradually subside over a few weeks. The surgeon may recommend the use of a moisturizer over the breast area to mitigate dryness and itching, while avoiding direct application over the incisions. If the surgeon has placed removable stitches to close the incisions, these may be removed around the end of first week along with the drain tubes.
Heavy lifting of weights, excessive bending, strenuous exercises and other vigorous activities should be avoided for at least two to three weeks after breast reduction. Depending on their profession, most patients can return to work in about 10 days after the surgery. Sexual activity should be avoided for at least one week or more because sexual arousal can lead to inflammation in the incision sites.
First Few Months
The patient should ensure that any contact with the breasts is gentle for the first one to two months following breast reduction. During the first menstrual period following the surgery, the breasts may swell and become tender. Some women may experience intermittent pain in the initial months, particularly during menstruation. Mild pain meds may be prescribed by the cosmetic surgeon to make the recovery process more comfortable.
Altered sensation may occur in the nipples and incision areas following breast reduction. Some women may experience numbness in these areas for up to a year, while some others may complain of hypersensitivity in the breast area. In most cases, these changes are temporary and will resolve over time on their own. Dr. Richards receives patients from Las Vegas, NV and nearby areas for breast reduction surgery.
Long-term Recovery
Breast reduction surgery will typically involve significant disruption of the breast tissue. Therefore, it may take about six months to a year before the swelling is completely resolved. Full results of the surgery will become apparent only at that stage.
Breast reduction scars will appear red and lumpy for several months before they start fading to thin white lines. Patients who follow all recovery instructions of the surgeon will be able to have a safer and faster recovery.
If you would like more information on cosmetic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada plastic surgeon, Dr. Bryson Richards please contact us at 702.870.7070
Taking new patients from Las Vegas, Bullhead City, Laughlin, Pahrump, Mesquite NV and surrounding areas.