Breast Reduction Surgery

You should definitely discuss your goals with your surgeon before the surgery. Some people ask to be made as small as possible, while some would simply like to be more proportional to their body frame. Bra and cup sizes vary with manufacturer, so your surgeon may be hesitant to promise you a specific change in cup size. Also, there are limits to how small a surgeon can make your breasts without risking additional complications.

Most scars will fade in time, about 6-12 months, but the scars will be there in some form forever. Keep in mind that not everyone makes the same kinds of scars. Be sure to ask your surgeon beforehand where exactly your scars will be. There are many ways of performing a breast reduction, and your doctor will choose the method most suited to your body and your goals. Silicone based gels will help the scars to fade by time.

Recovery takes approximately one month. Bruises can last 2-3 weeks, will turn purple, maybe green, and eventually yellow before eventually fading away.

Many women are apprehensive about breast reduction surgery before having children or fear it might negatively affect their chances of breastfeeding, or for fear of the breasts getting larger again when they do breastfeed. You should discuss these concerns thoroughly during your initial consultation with a plastic surgeon.

Each individual’s experience of pain is different, but most patients describe post-surgery pain as mild to moderate. You will be instructed on what pain medications to take that are appropriate for the level of pain you experience.

You will need to take it very easy for at least several days and will probably need assistance for many daily tasks, so be sure you have that help available. The surgery does involve being under general anesthesia, which has lingering effects that vary from person to person. You may find that you become very tired and need to take a nap at some point during the day for a week or two.