What to Expect After Breast Reduction Surgery

Every year, thousands of patients have breast reduction surgery. There are several reasons why patients choose this surgery: Some women with naturally large breasts experience neck, back, or shoulder pain. Others find that their breasts are disproportionate to the rest of their body and struggle to find clothes that fit properly. And others simply prefer to have a smaller chest for aesthetic reasons. Generally, breast reduction patients are very happy with their procedure and consider it life-changing.

If you are wondering what to expect after breast reduction surgery and would like to know about what this procedure entails, you’re in the right spot. Today, we will cover the basics of how to get a breast reduction, and what the procedure is like. If you have any more questions about what to expect after breast reduction surgery, please reach out to our skilled team for all the answers you need. 

Am I a Good Breast Reduction Candidate?

The ideal breast reduction procedure candidates are healthy women seeking to surgically address very large or drooping breasts. Sometimes, breast reduction patients choose this surgery for medical purposes — particularly because large breasts can cause neck, back, and shoulder pain as well as headaches. 

As with any type of plastic surgery, breast reduction candidates should always do plenty of research before planning their procedure. It is crucial for patients to go into their treatment with knowledge of what to expect after breast reduction surgery, and have realistic expectations about how their results will appear. 

The Breast Reduction Procedure

Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anesthetic and takes between 2-4 hours. 

Several incision patterns can be used for a breast reduction, but our most popular is the “anchor” or “vertical T” incision. This incision is made around the areola and extended along the breast crease. After reshaping and lifting, Dr. Lapuerta will then reposition the nipple before closing the incisions with absorbable sutures inside the breast. 

Some patients will have tubes or drains to assist with control over swelling and bleeding. These will be removed during recovery.

What is the Breast Reduction Recovery Period Like?

The breast reduction recovery period is fairly straightforward, but it does take some time. After 1-2 weeks, patients can return to work, but will still be advised to take it easy. At around 4-6 weeks, exercise and physical activities can be resumed. Some patients report that their nipples don’t regain sensitivity until around six months after their reduction.

The early days of breast reduction recovery can be uncomfortable, and swelling, bruising, and tenderness are to be expected. There is medication available for patients experiencing more serious pain during their recovery, but not everybody needs it. 

How to Sleep After Breast Reduction Surgery

Many of our patients ask about how to sleep after breast reduction surgery. Generally, we recommend that breast reduction patients sleep on their backs until they’ve fully recovered. This will help to avoid any complications or damage to your results. If possible, it’s even better for patients to use pillows to sleep at a 30-40 degree angle. This can help with swelling, as well as create a safer position for patients to eventually get out of bed. Once fully healed, it’s perfectly fine for patients to resume sleeping on their sides or front. 

What to Wear After a Breast Reduction

Most breast reduction patients go into their surgery already thinking of their “after” breasts — free of pain and able to fit into smaller cup sizes that are plentiful at department stores. Rest assured there will be time to enjoy outfitting your new, smaller bust with the bras you’ve been eyeing. However, in the weeks following a breast reduction there are a few rules to follow before you can put on just any garment. Immediately following your procedure it’s important to wear a comfy surgical bra or compression garment that will be provided by Dr. Lapuerta; this will assist in recovery. Additionally, many patients find that in the weeks following their breast reduction it’s helpful to wear tops that button or snap in the front. This helps to avoid pulling garments over the recovery area.

What Will My Results Look Like?

Wondering what to expect after breast reduction? Have a look at our results gallery. This will allow you to both see real-life examples of your surgeon’s handiwork and find examples that reflect your own goals. It’s helpful to look for “before” shots that resemble your breasts, so you can easily see what type of results could be possible from your procedure. 

Is it Possible to Breastfeed After a Reduction?

This depends. Some breast reduction patients go on to breastfeed multiple babies, while others will struggle with lactation. This is because, as with certain forms of breast augmentation surgery, a breast reduction typically involves incisions around the areola. Sometimes, these incisions can cut or damage the milk ducts, thus reducing lactation abilities. However, it is not possible to determine whether a patient will be able to breastfeed until they are attempting to. In cases where breastfeeding is not possible, it’s best to work with a lactation specialist or midwife and supplement with baby formula.

How to Get a Breast Reduction in Houston

Dr. Lapuerta has been performing breast reductions for the greater Houston area for over 20 years. If this surgery sounds like the right one for you, please get in touch with our team for a free and discreet consultation session. We look forward to meeting you and helping you meet your goals!