AllBodySurgery.com
Women who have had breast reduction surgery? What can I expect for recovery time, pain level?
I have a 2 year old son, how long after surgery should I plan for help with him until I can care for him by myself again.
Public Comments
- Breast Reduction Recovery Time As with the recovery period following any type of surgery, breast reduction recovery will take time. To better prepare you for the recovery time, we have provided information on what to expect in the weeks and months following breast reduction. The First Two Weeks Some bruising and swelling are to be expected during the breast reduction recovery period, but will usually subside in a few weeks. A moisturizer may be used on the breasts to alleviate any itching and dryness, as long as it is not applied directly to the incision sites. Patients should carefully follow all post-op instructions from their doctors to minimize discomfort and speed up the healing process. For the first two to three days after breast reduction surgery, the patient must wear an elastic bandage or a special surgical bra over gauze and dressings. Once the gauze and dressings are removed, the patient will continue to wear the surgical bra for the next several weeks of breast reduction recovery time. Stitches are typically removed one to two weeks after surgery. Breast reduction patients are advised to avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for several weeks after surgery. Most women, depending on their profession, can return to work within 10 to 14 days. Patients are instructed to abstain from sexual activity for a week or more, as sexual arousal can cause inflammation around the incisions. The First Several Months Any contact with the breasts should be gentle for four to six weeks following breast reduction surgery. Patients should be aware that their breasts may swell and become tender during the first menstrual period of the breast reduction recovery process. In addition, some women may experience sporadic pains for a few months, especially during menstruation. Your doctor can prescribe pain medication to alleviate these symptoms and make your recovery as comfortable as possible. Altered sensations of the breast skin and nipple are common symptoms following surgery. Numbness of the breast and nipple may be experienced by some women for up to a year following breast reduction surgery, while others may experience hypersensitivity of the breast area. It is important to keep in mind that, in some cases, these altered sensations may be permanent. Because breast tissue is significantly disrupted during surgery, it may take six months to a year before all swelling subsides and the final breast reduction surgery results become apparent.
- You should have help for at least two weeks, or longer depending on how well you heal. Give yourself time and patience to heal, as lifting him and doing things with your arms can affect your incisions and how well they look after they are closed. I had no pain after surgery, didn't even need the prescription painkillers, but it depends on your tolerance level as well. I would try to get assistance with your son for at least a month to be on the safe side. Even though you may feel like you can lift him and do things, take it easy. I went through this Feb 2006 and I'm very satisfied. Just be sure to listen to your doctor and his advice and ASK HIM or HER any questions you may have (i.e. if you ask on here, verify with the PS of what to do!!!).
