Health - Wellness
What To Expect After Breast Reduction Surgery
By NANCY SCHIMELPFENING
Having larger breasts can cause neck and back pain, migraines and severe headaches, and numbness in the hands and fingers, and can even prevent women from participating in exercise and physical activities. Breast reduction surgery is an excellent option to alleviate pain and prevent future health issues if you feel your breasts don't suit you.
Most reduction procedures aim to remove at least a pound of tissue, fat cells, and excess skin, and this can take up to three hours. These procedures aren't just for women; the American Society of Plastic Surgeons' 2020 annual report documented 18,575 breast reductions performed on men with gynecomastia, which results in breast tissue enlargement.
Since breast reduction surgeries require general anesthesia, patients are placed in post-operative rooms immediately after surgery, and the incision sites are covered with bandages and dressings like gauze. Doctors may advise patients to wear a support bra or elastic bandage to reduce swelling and support healing.
Additionally, there may be a small, thin tube temporarily placed under the skin to drain excess fluid and blood from the surgical area. Patients will likely feel sore for two to three weeks and fatigued for several weeks. Always listen to the doctor’s post-op instructions and get plenty of rest and self-care; drink lots of fluids and eat low-fat bland foods if you experience an upset stomach.