Areola reduction surgery is a common plastic surgery operation, which is mainly suitable for areolas that are too large in diameter, irregular in shape, or dilated due to factors such as breastfeeding and weight fluctuations. Through sophisticated excision and suturing techniques, it can improve the beauty of the breasts and enhance the patient's self-confidence. Although the operation is a minor plastic surgery, postoperative care is crucial and directly related to the quality of recovery and the effect of the operation. The following will explain in detail the key points of postoperative care, possible complications, recovery process and precautions.
1. Immediate postoperative nursing management
After the operation, the doctor will usually put a dressing around the areola to keep the wound clean and dry to prevent infection. The patient must strictly follow the doctor's instructions and avoid removing the dressing or touching the surgical area within 24 to 48 hours after the operation. Mild swelling and bruising may occur in the early stage, which is a normal reaction and generally gradually subsides within 3 to 5 days.
The first 48 hours after surgery is the critical recovery period, and the following points need to be achieved:
1. Keep the wound dry and avoid bathing or getting the wound wet.
2. You can use ice compresses under the doctor's advice, for 15-20 minutes each time, 3-4 times a day, to help reduce swelling.
3. Avoid strenuous activities and large-scale movements of the upper limbs to prevent pulling on the sutures.
4. It is recommended to sleep on your back to avoid pressure on your breasts.
2. Postoperative cleaning and dressing change
The dressing change period begins on the 3rd to 7th day after surgery. Professional medical staff are required to clean the wound and change the dressings. If symptoms such as increased exudate, redness, swelling, fever, and odor occur during this period, you should seek medical attention in time to rule out infection.
Nursing focuses include:
①. Clean your hands thoroughly before each dressing change.
② Use sterile saline to clean the wound, and avoid using highly irritating disinfectants such as alcohol or iodine.
③. After applying antibiotic ointment, cover the wound with sterile gauze to avoid exposing the wound.
3. Diet and lifestyle management during postoperative recovery period
Nutritional intake during the recovery period plays a positive role in tissue healing. Patients should maintain a balanced diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods, tobacco and alcohol, and consume foods rich in protein, vitamin C and zinc to help speed up tissue repair.
Recommended intake:
① Foods rich in collagen, such as pig's trotters and fish
②. Fresh fruits and vegetables, such as broccoli, oranges, and blueberries
③. High protein sources such as tofu, lean meat, and eggs
In addition, it is recommended to wear soft, underwire-free bras to reduce the burden on the breasts and help stabilize their shape.
IV. Postoperative suture removal and scar management
Usually, the sutures are removed 7 to 14 days after the operation according to the individual's recovery condition. After the sutures are removed, the scar enters the maturation stage, which is particularly critical and determines the final aesthetics.
Key care includes:
①. Avoid direct sunlight. It is recommended to wear clothing with strong coverage or use medical sunscreen.
② Starting from one month after the operation, silicone gel or silicone patch can be used under the guidance of a doctor to soften scars.
③. Do not scratch, rub or massage the areola area to avoid irritating pigmentation.
Scars usually fade gradually over 3 to 6 months. Some people may develop hypertrophic scars and should undergo regular follow-up assessments.
5. Psychological support and self-cognitive adjustment
Although areola reduction surgery is a procedure to improve appearance, its effectiveness is closely related to the patient's psychological expectations. Some patients may experience emotional reactions such as anxiety and symmetry concerns after the operation. It is recommended to fully communicate and clarify the goals before the operation.
In the postoperative stage, you should avoid frequent comparisons in the mirror and give your body enough time to recover. At the same time, moderate participation in relaxing social activities can help distract your attention and increase your confidence in recovery.
VI. Prevention and treatment of common complications
Although the areola reduction surgery technique is mature, we still need to be alert to possible complications after the operation.
Infection : Manifestations include local redness, swelling, fever, and exudate with an odor. See a doctor immediately and change antibiotics if necessary.
Hematoma or effusion : If there is obvious swelling and increased pain in the early stage, it is necessary to check whether there is blood accumulation and drain it if necessary.
Decreased or lost nipple sensation : Most are temporary and gradually recover over weeks to months, while a few may be permanent.
Scar hyperplasia or pigmentation : It is related to personal constitution and can be treated with laser, scar stickers and other methods.
VII. Postoperative Follow-up and Long-term Management
It is recommended to arrange regular follow-up 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery to evaluate the recovery progress and adjust the nursing measures in time. For patients with good recovery, normal exercise and sexual life can be gradually resumed after 3 months.
Beauty Encyclopedia Tips:
Postoperative care for areola reduction surgery is not only a process of repairing the body, but also a journey of self-attention. Only by following professional guidance, maintaining good living habits, and regulating emotions reasonably can you achieve satisfactory results in the postoperative recovery period and reap the dual rewards of health and beauty.