It’s important for patients to prepare for breast reduction surgery by getting their home ready for recovery. When you arrive home from your procedure you should have several things ready, including ice packs; clean towels, washcloths, and gauze; any medications or topical products that we have recommended during your consultation, and plenty of loose t-shirts and button-up blouses. You will also need someone to drive you home and stay with you overnight.
Most breast reduction patients return to desk-type jobs about a week after surgery, but it’s good to be aware that during the first couple of weeks, you may experience tightness and/or bruising of the chest, as well as stiffness and soreness in the upper body. Some patients also experience rashes.
Expect to wear a surgical bra for about a week to help with support and healing. After this, you can begin wearing a soft, non-underwire bra. We recommend that patients avoid wearing underwire bras for about four months. Some patients also require drains after surgery to help catch excess fluids and reduce swelling. Drains are small tubes that are inserted into the incisions, and it’s important that you do not submerge them under water (such as when bathing). You should not lift more than 1 to 2 pounds for at least two weeks, and be sure to not put any pressure on your incisions. High intensity exercise should be avoided for six weeks. Patients will need to sleep upright for about two weeks. We will provide you with detailed home care instructions to help your recovery go smoothly.
