Sometimes Smaller Is Better: Breast Reduction Recovery

Of all the types of breast surgery performed by Dr. Greg Gaines at Gaines Plastic Surgery, none can surpass breast reduction surgery in its ability to transform not only a woman’s figure but also her quality of life. Many women who undergo breast reduction have breasts that are so disproportionate to the rest of their bodies that they experience both physical discomfort and psychological and emotional trauma. The physical discomfort can manifest itself in the form of severe back, shoulder, and neck pain; however, the unwanted attention from strangers can lead to equally painful self-consciousness. For women with overly large and heavy breasts, breast reduction can represent a true miracle.

Nevertheless, breast reduction is a major surgical procedure and, as such, requires a significant period of healing. During consultations with his patients, Dr. Gaines describes what they can expect during breast reduction recovery in detail at his Gainesville office. He feels that it is essential for patients to understand precisely what they should expect to experience before, during, and after a procedure so that they can make informed, confident decisions about whether or not to proceed with that procedure. In the case of breast reduction, most patients decide that the somewhat lengthy recovery process is more than justified in light of the tremendous physical, emotional, and aesthetic benefits offered by the procedure.

Your breast reduction recovery will likely be somewhat different from the one described below, which should be taken as simply general information. For a better idea of what your specific breast reduction will entail, please schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Gaines today.

The “Typical” Breast Reduction Recovery

Just as there is no such thing as a “typical” breast reduction patient, there is no such thing as a “typical” breast reduction recovery. Every patient’s recovery is slightly different, depending on the scope of her surgery, her body’s natural ability to heal, and other factors. However, the following general information will give you a basic idea of what you can expect during the healing period after breast reduction surgery.

On the day of your surgery, you will be allowed to leave the surgical facility, though you will not be able to drive yourself home. You will need to arrange to have someone else drive you to and from the surgical appointment. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing on the day of surgery.

During the first day or two after surgery, you will find basic movement to be somewhat difficult, so you may want to have someone on hand to help you with chores around the house. You will want to rest as much as possible, although some light walking beginning on day two is encouraged.

Before scheduling your breast reduction surgery, be sure that you are able to take at least two weeks off work, as you will require at least that much time to heal from your procedure. Aside from light walking, you will be asked to refrain from vigorous exercise during this time. Until you are given clearance from Dr. Gaines, you will not be allowed to take a bath, lift objects heavier than 10 pounds, or raise your arms above your head.

It is absolutely vital that you follow all post-surgical instructions provided to you by Dr. Gaines diligently. You must take all medications precisely as advised, wear your compression garments to avoid swelling and promote proper healing, and keep your body elevated even when sleeping.

Learn More about Breast Reduction Recovery

To learn more about breast reduction recovery, please contact Gaines Plastic Surgery today.