After having breast reduction surgery, you will have to give yourself plenty of time and patience. During your recovery, you may need someone to help you with household chores. You should try not to stay in bed for too long, but you should be encouraged to move around. After surgery, you can return to normal activities such as walking.
Post-operative Care
Post-operative care for breast reduction recovery is critical for a successful outcome. After the surgery, you will need to follow the surgeon’s instructions. You will need to stay home for the first week or two to rest. Your breasts will be tender and may be swollen, but the swelling will eventually subside. You can resume desk work and driving within 7-10 days. You should wear loose, comfortable clothing to help with healing.
Following a nutritious, well-balanced diet is essential during the recovery process. Your body will be able to heal faster when you eat well and drink lots of water. It is also important to take all of the prescribed medications. It is best to avoid strenuous activities for the first 2 weeks following the surgery. After this time, you can start exercising with low impact activities.
Complications
Complications from breast reduction surgery include delayed wound healing, infection, and broken skin. Broken skin can cause longer hospital stays and require additional surgery. Smokers are at higher risk of this complication. In some cases, a small amount of blood may leak from the breast. After surgery, a small drainage tube may be placed in each breast to allow the blood to drain.
During the first week or two after surgery, it is important for women to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities. The surgeon will also instruct them on when they should resume exercise. A good rule of thumb is that you should avoid strenuous physical activity for at least a month after breast reduction surgery.
Pain Medication
Before you begin taking pain medication after your breast reduction, discuss the procedure with your doctor. You should know the active ingredient in the pain medication, how much you should take, and whether it will interact with other medicines. Also, you should discuss the pain medication with your surgeon, as some may have contraindications.
After your breast reduction, you will need to rest for at least a week or two. You may also need to take time off from work. Your doctor will give you instructions on when you can go back to work. You will also need to avoid any strenuous physical activities, such as lifting heavy objects. The first few days following your breast reduction recovery will be the most painful. You will need pain medication to help you recover. You should also make sure that you have a responsible adult to care for you while you’re recovering.
Opioids are commonly prescribed for post-surgical pain. These drugs diminish the perception of pain and reduce inflammation. They may be used intravenously, or taken as a pill. Some doctors may also prescribe psychoactive drugs, such as midazolam and gabapentin.
Return to Activity
The time frame for return to activity after breast reduction varies depending on the type and extent of the surgery. It also depends on the postoperative physical and psychological state of the patient. Generally, a minimum of three to four weeks is recommended before patients can return to running or other vigorous exercise.
During the first week, patients should avoid strenuous activity and limit their lifting. They should do light activities, such as walking. During the second week, they may begin to engage in moderate exercise such as yoga or light elliptical or spin bike use. At the end of the third week, they can resume all their normal activities, except for heavy lifting.
Most patients can return to work or household activities after about a month. However, it is important to see a doctor before starting any strenuous activity. If you are a candidate for breast reconstruction, Dr. Lee may recommend that you start with light physical activities, such as walking or brisk running. It is also important to wear a supportive bra when exercising.
Physical Activity Restrictions
Physical activity restrictions after a breast reduction are based on the type and length of surgery, as well as the individual’s recovery time. While some women heal quickly and can resume their regular routines soon after surgery, others need additional time to recover. A good rule of thumb is to avoid jogging for three to four weeks after surgery.
During the first two to three weeks following surgery, patients may do light exercises such as walking or elliptical machines. It is best to start with short, low-impact walks to prevent strain on the chest muscles. After the first week, you can gradually increase your walk length and intensity. Do not begin jogging or swimming during this time, as they can cause additional complications. The timeframe for a return to running or jogging depends on many factors, including the patient’s health, the type of surgery and the location of the incisions.
