The Breast Reduction Recovery Timeline By Patricia Berbari on May 30, 2015

Throughout the years, breast reduction has remained one of the most commonly performed plastic surgery procedures; more than 40,000 women underwent breast reduction surgery in 2014 alone. The reasons women have for undergoing the procedure are many and varied, but most breast reduction patients share at least one common goal: they want to bring their breasts into improved proportion with the rest of their bodies. Some women wish to do so because they want to feel less self-conscious about their appearance; others are tired of the physical strain their heavy, pendulous breasts place on their shoulders and backs. Many simply want to lead more active lifestyles unencumbered by large breasts. Whatever reason you might have for considering breast reduction surgery, you can rest assured that Dr. Patricia Berbari will give you the natural-looking, aesthetically pleasing results you desire.

Although breast reduction surgery offers a multitude of physical and cosmetic benefits, it is a major surgical procedure and, as such, requires a significant recovery period. Dr. Berbari will discuss your breast reduction recovery with you during your consultation at her Gatineau office so that you know precisely what to expect before you commit to the procedure. She is a firm believer in the value of patient education and will provide you with all of the information you need to make confident decisions regarding your treatment.

We invite you to read the following general information about breast reduction recovery and then schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Berbari, during which you will find out what your specific healing period will be like.

What does the typical breast reduction recovery entail?

Breast reduction surgery is generally performed on an outpatient basis, which means that you will be able to return home on the day of your surgery. Of course, you will not be able to drive yourself home as you will still be feeling the effects of your anesthesia, so you will have to arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment. It is probably a good idea to have someone take care of things around the house for you for at least a day or two after your surgery, as well. Although you will be encouraged to do some light walking during this time, your ability to move will otherwise be limited.

You should arrange to take approximately two weeks off of work for your recovery. During this time, you cannot exercise beyond your light walking, take baths, or raise your arms above your head. When you are not walking, you will be resting in an upright position. Even when you are sleeping, you should keep your head elevated.

It is important that you diligently follow all post-surgical instructions provided to you by Dr. Berbari. You must take all medications as recommended, drink lots of fluids, and attend all follow-up appointments. The success of your procedure depends heavily on your ability to follow Dr. Berbari’s instructions to the letter.