WHAT it is:
A Breast Reduction is a surgical procedure to remove excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size more in proportion with your body. It also works to alleviate the discomfort associated with excessively large breasts.
HOW it’s done:
A Breast Reduction is done in the OR under general anesthesia. The surgery is performed through incisions on the breasts with surgical removal of the excess fat, glandular tissue and skin to reduce the size of the breasts.
WHAT to expect:
You may experience temporary pain, soreness and numbness of breast skin and/or incision discomfort.
Maximum discomfort will occur the first few days.
You will have bruising and swelling of the breasts. The majority of bruising and swelling will subside in 6-8 weeks.
You will leave the operation with an ACE bandage or bra around your chest.
You may not have sensation in the nipples. This may be permanent but usually returns to normal in 6-9 months.
Your first menstruation following surgery may cause breast swelling and pain.
You may feel tired for several weeks or months.
AWAKE or ASLEEP
Take a nap with general anesthesia
RECOVER, RESULTS & FREQUENCY:
You can expect to be recovered in 2-6 weeks. This procedure allows for a permanent fix. However, you can receive this procedure more than once if your aesthetic desires change.
PRE-OP instructions:
Have all prescriptions filled prior to your surgery. Do not take any Aspirin, Plavix, Ibuprofen, Vitamin E, Fish Oil, Coenzyme Q10 or medications containing these compounds for 14 days before your procedure.
Begin your stool softener on the day prior to surgery to avoid constipation.
If you have implants: You will need to shower twice daily using antibacterial soap for the three days leading up to your procedure and the morning of your surgery for a total of 6 showers.
If you do not have implants: Wash with Hibiclens or antibacterial soap the night before surgery, as directed. Cleanse your belly button area with a Qtip and the antibacterial soap while showering.
Do not shave the surgical site within 2 days of surgery. This includes under arms for breast procedures and the pubic area for abdominal procedures. Hair may be trimmed with an electric clipper.
Avoid using body lotions, deodorants or perfumes on the day of surgery.
Do not wear any jewelry, piercings or contact lenses.
Refrain from vigorous exercise on the day before your surgery.
Have a regular meal on the evening before surgery, and drink plenty of water. Avoid alcoholic beverages on the evening before surgery. Do no eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery.
POST-OP instructions:
You may shower 24-48 hours after your operation, but no soaking in a bathtub. Lukewarm water.
Do not remove steri-strips. They may come off naturally at 2 weeks. When they start to peel off, they are easier to remove in the shower.
Keep incisions clean and inspect daily for signs of infection.
May pad incision with dressings/gauze for comfort.
Avoid exposing scars to sun for at least 12 months.
Always use a strong sunblock, if sun exposure is unavoidable (SPF 30 or greater).
Begin scar therapy approximately 2 weeks after your operation
Start walking as soon as possible, as this helps to reduce swelling and lowers the chance of blood clots.
Do not drive until you are no longer taking any pain medications (narcotics).
No lifting greater than 8 lbs. for 4-6 weeks.
Sleep in a recliner or with multiple pillows
Avoid strenuous exercise and activities for approximately 6 weeks.
Return to work in 1-2 weeks.
