Breast Reduction Recovery Tips
Large, heavy breasts can cause discomfort, especially for those with a smaller frame. Breast reduction surgery eliminates excess tissues from the breasts to give women better proportions and improved body contours. Breast reduction surgery can greatly improve a patient’s comfort, while still leaving them with an ample and attractive bust line.
As with any surgical procedure, breast reduction will result in side effects and some needed downtime. There is nothing a patient can do to avoid the lengthy recovery period that follows breast reduction surgery, but there are steps they can take to promote healing.
Dr. Anya Kishinevsky offers breast reduction recovery tips to our Fairfield, CT patients so that they can get through this time as smoothly and comfortably as possible.
Get Plenty of Rest
No one can adequately prepare for how worn down they will feel after breast reduction surgery. Patients need to allow themselves plenty of time to rest and recover.
We advise patients to have a friend or loved one around to help out with day-to-day tasks, like cooking and cleaning, the first several days following surgery.
Patients should also nap and rest as needed. As the body heals, short, frequent walks around the house are encouraged, but patients should avoid any activities more strenuous than that for several weeks.
Wear Compression Garments as Directed
All breast reduction patients will be given some type of compression garment to wear as they recover from surgery. It is important that this garment is worn as directed by Dr. Kishinevsky.
Compression garments minimize swelling and provide support that will ultimately help the breasts maintain their new shape. Compression garments can even reduce discomfort so that patients rely less on pain pills. In most cases, compression garments are used for about six weeks after breast reduction surgery.
Stay Hydrated
Some women have a low appetite during breast reduction surgery, but it is important to keep the body fueled and hydrated.
Water is a great asset. By keeping well-hydrated, patients can reduce swelling, minimize the risk of post-surgical complications, and avoid constipation that can be brought on by the use of pain pills.
Patients should drink at least six to eight glasses of water per day while they are recovering from breast reduction surgery.
Eat Nutrient Rich Foods
Foods can also be a great benefit to patients recovering from breast reduction. Patients should opt for foods that are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that will assist the body in the healing process.
Foods with vitamins A, C, and E can fight off infection as the body recovers. Foods rich in these antioxidants include citrus fruits, green vegetables, nuts, and fish.
Many fish and nuts also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can further reduce inflammation.
Learn More
Breast reduction surgery can enhance a woman’s confidence and improve her quality of life. If large breasts are causing you physical pain or emotional discomfort, you may be an ideal candidate for this procedure. To learn more, contact us at your earliest convenience or call (203) 388-9919 to set up a personal consultation with Dr. Anya Kishinevsky.
