Breast reduction surgery (reduction breast surgery) is a plastic surgery procedure that removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to improve the physical discomfort and psychological distress caused by enlarged breasts. This type of surgery is suitable for women who have neck and shoulder pain, skin eczema, limited mobility or self-image problems due to enlarged breasts. Postoperative care and recovery process are critical to surgical effectiveness, wound healing and overall satisfaction. This article focuses on the key points of postoperative care and recovery process, providing practical guidance to help patients recover smoothly.
Initial postoperative care (0-7 days)
1. Wound protection and dressing changes
The first week after surgery is an important stage in the initial healing of the wound. The surgical area is usually covered with a medical dressing and compressed with an elastic bandage. Patients should avoid removing the dressing on their own and keep the dressing dry and clean. If any abnormal conditions such as exudation, redness, swelling or fever occur, seek medical treatment in time.
2. Pain and swelling management
Obvious swelling and discomfort may occur in the early postoperative period, which is a normal reaction. Doctors will usually prescribe oral analgesics or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs. Patients should use them as directed by the doctor and avoid increasing the dosage or stopping the medication without authorization. At the same time, ice packs (15-20 minutes each time) can be used under the guidance of a doctor to reduce swelling, but avoid direct contact of the ice pack with the skin.
3. Position and activity restrictions
It is recommended to rest in a semi-recumbent position after the operation to avoid lying flat and compressing the breast area. Raising your arms, lifting heavy objects or doing any strenuous exercise should be avoided in the first two weeks to avoid pulling on the stitches or affecting the stability of the internal tissues. Breast support bras can be used to help stabilize the shape if necessary.
Mid-term recovery after surgery (8-30 days)
1. Suture removal and scar management
Usually the stitches can be removed 7 to 14 days after the operation depending on the recovery situation. After the stitches are removed, the incision site should continue to be kept dry and clean to avoid local irritation. To prevent scar hyperplasia, medical silicone patches or scar softening gel can be used under the guidance of a doctor. Applying them daily will help smooth the wound edges.
2. Wearing postoperative underwear
Special support bras after surgery play a vital role in the recovery process. It is recommended to choose postoperative bras without underwires and with good breathability, which can help reduce swelling, stabilize breast position and promote recovery. They should be worn for at least 6 weeks. Avoid wearing ordinary tight or underwire bras.
3. Maintain proper activity
Although strenuous exercise should still be avoided after surgery, you can gradually resume daily light activities, such as walking or daily housework, with the doctor's permission. This will help blood circulation in the lower limbs and reduce the risk of postoperative venous thrombosis. However, any upper limb exertion or chest traction movements should be avoided.
Post-recovery and long-term care (1-6 months)
1. Continuous scar care
One month after surgery, the scar gradually enters the mature stage and may turn red or slightly thicken. This is a normal physiological reaction. At this stage, you can continue to use silicone patches and gently massage the incision area with vitamin E ointment to help improve the appearance of the scar. Be careful to avoid strong light exposure and use physical sunscreen (such as covering with clothing) when necessary.
2. Morphological stability and follow-up
The breast shape will gradually stabilize within 2 to 3 months after surgery, but complete healing of the tissue may take up to 6 months. During this period, you should go to the hospital for regular checkups to evaluate breast health, scar recovery, and breast symmetry. Some individuals may have slight left-right asymmetry due to physical condition or surgical procedure differences, at which time you can discuss whether a secondary fine-tuning is needed.
3. Emotional and psychological adaptation
Breast reduction surgery not only improves appearance, but may also be accompanied by an emotional adjustment period. Some patients experience anxiety or mood swings in the early postoperative period, which is a common psychological reaction. Fully communicating expectations before surgery and receiving professional guidance and support after surgery will help them smoothly transition to a new body image.
Special situation handling
1. Bleeding and hematoma
A small amount of bleeding after surgery is normal, but if the dressing continues to seep or the surgical area swells or changes color rapidly, be alert to hematoma formation and seek medical attention immediately. Re-debridement or drainage may be required.
2. Signs of infection
If there is fever, redness, swelling and pain in the wound, increased secretions and an odor, infection should be highly suspected, and bacterial culture and antibiotic treatment are required. Personal hygiene should be maintained, especially in the first two weeks after surgery, and avoid touching the incision with your hands.
3. Changes in nipple or areola sensation
The distribution of some nerves may be affected during breast reduction surgery. Some patients may experience nipple numbness or decreased sensation after surgery. This phenomenon is mostly temporary and generally recovers gradually within a few months. If there is no improvement, feedback should be provided to the doctor for further evaluation.
Beauty Encyclopedia Tips:
Breast reduction surgery is a plastic surgery with high technical requirements. Postoperative care is directly related to the quality of recovery and breast morphology. Patients should strictly follow the doctor's instructions, scientifically arrange the recovery rhythm, pay attention to scar management and morphology maintenance, maintain stable emotions and good living habits. At the same time, choosing a qualified and compliant medical institution and experienced surgeons is an important guarantee for obtaining satisfactory surgical results. During the postoperative recovery period, maintaining good communication and regular review will help to discover and solve problems in a timely manner and ensure smooth postoperative recovery.