Patients can trust in Dr. Tracy McCall, a leading plastic surgeon who serves the greater Milwaukee area. Her commitment to patient wellness means a focus on pre-op and post-op care just as much as the surgery itself.
Proper healing after breast reduction surgery is key for great results. Let’s consider a broad recovery timeline following the surgery so patients have realistic expectations about the process.
How Long Should I Take Off of Work?
The exact amount of time can vary, but the vast majority of patients will take 1 to 2 weeks off of work, with most patients taking just 1. Keep in mind that you may not be able to return to all work duties when you get back to your workplace (especially if the job is physically demanding).
What to Expect Immediately After Breast Reduction Surgery?
Immediately after breast reduction surgery, it’s not uncommon to feel groggy and tired as you come out from under the effects of the anesthesia. Soreness and discomfort are also very common at this time. Patients are asked to get rest after surgery, lying down with their back propped by a few pillows to avoid lying down flat.
What to Expect in the First Days After Breast Reduction Surgery?
In the first days after breast reduction surgery, patients will wear a surgical bra and possibly special gauze and dressings as well. Itchiness, swelling, bruising, and sensitivity of the breasts is common in these first days after surgery, and will continue to be so over the next few weeks, though patients should note these side effects becoming more tolerable as they continue to recover.
What to Expect in the First Week After Breast Reduction Surgery?
By the end of the first week of recovery, breast reduction patients will have had a follow-up visit with their surgeon. This will ensure proper healing and that there are no signs of complications or other issues in this early phase of recovery. During this early time in the healing process, patients are advised to avoid any strenuous physical activities, which includes heavy lifting, exercise, and sexual activity. Stitches or sutures may be removed by the end of the first week.
Recovery by the End of the First Month
By the end of the first month of recovery, patients will have noticed dramatic improvement of side effects, particularly pain and discomfort, bruising, swelling, and irritation. Any stitches or sutures will have been removed by the end of the second week of recovery if not removed sooner.
Considerations for Long-Term Healing and Wellness
In the months ahead, patients will notices continued improvement of the appearance of their breasts. The sensitivity of the breasts will continue to be an issue for the months ahead, though these issues should abate with time. Patients may also note some mild swelling that persists even after the end of the first month. Rest assured that this is normal and that it can take up to a year for all swelling to fade.
Post-Surgical Scarring After Breast Reduction Surgery
Scars from breast reduction surgery are often most noticeable in the first weeks and months of recovery. These scars should fade with time, becoming less pronounced with time. Keep in mind that the overall nature of the scarring will vary from patient to patient based on a whole host of factors, some of which are genetic.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Tracy McCall
To learn more about breast reduction surgery and how it can help you achieve better curves and contours, be sure to contact our advanced cosmetic skin care and plastic surgery center today. Dr. Tracy McCall and her team are here to help you look your absolute best.
