Advancements in surgical techniques over the years have made procedures such as breast reduction cosmetic surgery less invasive and more effective. However, breast reduction still involves a significant recovery process, which is integral to the overall procedure. Patients who are prepared to diligently follow the surgeon’s instructions will usually achieve faster and easier recovery.
Dr. Eugene Kim is a board certified plastic surgeon providing breast reduction and other innovative and advanced procedures for the breast, body and face. Dr. Kim will explain to the patient about the recovery aspect during the initial consultation. He provides breast reduction to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and surrounding locations.
Estimated Downtime
Following breast reduction cosmetic surgery, the patient will be required to stay at home for at least one week and take plenty of rest during this period. Mild walks and light activities within the home are encourage during this period to improve blood flow. Contact with incision areas should be minimized, and the patient should take care not to put strain on the incisions until they have reasonably healed.
Each patient may have slightly different recovery period, depending on the amount of breast tissue removed, the skill of the operating surgeon and the patient’s natural healing ability. Most patients will be ready to return to their regular activities or go back to work in about 10 to 14 days. But heavy lifting of weights and strenuous exercises should be avoided for at least one month.
Compression Garments
Following breast reduction, the breasts will be wrapped in bandages. The next day of surgery the patient may have to visit the surgeon’s office to have the bandages removed. These will be replaced with a special surgical bra or compression garment that the patient will have to wear throughout the early recovery phase. The bra should be worn at all times except when bathing.
The surgical bra or a wrap-style compression garment will provide support to the breast tissue and muscle, and help the breasts to firmly acquire their new shape. Experienced plastic surgeon Dr. Kim receives patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and nearby areas for breast reduction surgery.
Avoiding Tobacco
Tobacco smoke and post-operative healing do not mix. The nicotine content in tobacco can cause the blood vessels to shrink, leading to reduced oxygen levels in the blood. This can obstruct the function of red blood cells, slow down the pace of recovery, and increase the risk of complications. The surgeon will specify the time period before and after breast reduction when smoking must be totally avoided.
Pain Management
The surgeon will prescribe some pain medications for the first few days of recovery. The patient will have relief from pain and discomfort while the initial bruising and soreness improves. The patient will have to refrain from driving or performing other such activities requiring full alertness while she is on pain meds. If the post-operative pain is acute or persists for a long time, the patient should contact the surgeon.
Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.
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