Breast reduction surgery is at the border of functionality and aesthetics. The procedure is both performed to increase the quality of life for the patient but also to enhance physical appearance. When breast reduction is performed, the plastic surgeon will make multiple incisions on the breasts to allow him access to the glandular tissue. The excess part of the mammary gland tissue is removed along with the surrounding fat and skin tissue. In some cases, liposuction can be performed with the breast reduction surgery to eliminate the fat pockets that can be accumulated under the arms or back. Excessively large breasts often make it difficult for the patient to exercise so fat accumulation can occur because of this.
The plastic surgeon will tell you exactly how to prepare for the procedure and what to expect during the recovery period. You will notice that there are a few essential items that you should have in the house after breast reduction surgery, such as:
– Antibiotics and pain medication
Breast reduction is a complex procedure entailing incisions. This means that there is always the risk of developing an infection and this is why antibiotics will be prescribed. The antibiotics should be taken according to the doctor’s orders for five days post-op. Pain medication is another important thing you need in the house after returning home from your surgery. The level of pain and discomfort to be experienced after the procedure is not overly intense; however, pain medication is also prescribed for the comfort of the patient and to help her resume daily activities as soon as possible.
– Compression or sports bras
After the surgery, your breasts will need compression and support. A good sports bra or a special post-op bra is mandatory to be worn non-stop for the first few weeks after the procedure. This means that you need at least two of them to be able to change after showering.
– Ice packs
The swelling and bruising that occur after any type of surgical trauma will subside without additional treatment in a vast majority of cases. However, the plastic surgeon’s recommendation might be to avoid any heat sources and apply ice packs on the breasts for a few days post-op. This should help decrease the swelling and also help with pain management. Ice packs should only be applied on a cotton cloth and over the post-operative bra to avoid damage to the sensitive skin of the breasts. Keep in mind that the ice packs should only be applied for a few minutes at a time, but several times per day. It is more efficient to use them in the following days after the surgery than weeks after.
If you don’t have all the essentials in the house after undergoing surgery, make sure to have someone available to do some shopping for you as chances are you won’t feel like going to the supermarket at least for the first few days post-op.