Breast Reduction Surgery
AFTER CARE

Immediately After Surgery (First 48 Hours)

• You will wake up with dressings, steri-strips, and a supportive surgical bra firmly in place.
• Swelling, bruising, and tightness are completely normal and will increase over the first 48 hours before improving.
• Moderate pain or pressure may occur but is controlled with prescribed pain medication.
• Small drains may be placed to prevent fluid collection; they are usually removed within 1–3 days.
• Pink or light blood-tinged fluid on dressings is normal; active bleeding or sudden swelling should be reported.
• Breast shape will appear high, firm, and swollen at first — this is temporary.
• Keep your head and chest elevated (30–45°) while sleeping to minimize swelling.
• Do not raise your arms above shoulder level or lift any objects.
• Short, gentle walks help maintain circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
• Sipping fluids and eating light meals are recommended after anesthesia.
• Avoid showering until your surgeon confirms it is safe, typically after 48–72 hours.
• Emotional sensitivity, fatigue, or mood changes are common and temporary after anesthesia and hormonal adjustment.

Goal: Protect incisions, minimize swelling, and maintain comfort during the critical first healing phase.

Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline

Week 1 – Initial Healing & Drain Care

• Swelling and bruising peak and then slowly improve.
• Drains, if present, are removed once output decreases.
• Continue pain relief, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory medication as prescribed.
• Keep wearing your support bra 24/7 except when showering.
• Sleep on your back, slightly elevated.
• Avoid lifting, pushing, or stretching your arms.
• Short walks are encouraged.
• Dressings are checked or changed at your first follow-up visit.

Goal: Control swelling, prevent fluid buildup, and keep incisions clean.

Week 2 – Wound Healing & Improved Comfort

• Pain becomes mild; you may feel tightness or mild burning at incision sites.
• Bruising subsides and skin color normalizes.
• Sutures (if non-absorbable) are removed around day 10–14.
• You may resume light household activities or computer work.
• Still avoid driving, stretching, and heavy lifting.
• Numbness or tingling around the nipples is common and temporary.
• Continue sleeping on your back and wearing the support bra continuously.

Goal: Allow incisions to close fully and swelling to reduce.

Weeks 3–4 – Shape Definition & Confidence Return

• Swelling decreases significantly; breast contour becomes softer and more natural.
• Scars look pink or firm but will gradually flatten.
• You can resume most daily activities and short walks outdoors.
• Avoid gym, swimming, or upper-body exercise.
• Continue the support bra day and night.
• Itching, mild shooting pains, or pulling sensations signal nerve recovery.

Goal: Support healing tissues while breasts settle into early shape.

Weeks 5–6 – Gradual Return to Activity

• You can begin light, non-impact exercise such as brisk walking, yoga, or stationary cycling.
• Start scar-care treatment (silicone gel or tape) as advised.
• Gentle self-massage may be introduced to soften firmness.
• Swelling continues to fade; breasts appear more natural.
• Underwire bras should still be avoided until the surgeon approves.

Goal: Encourage flexibility, softness, and smooth scar maturation.

Weeks 7–8 – Transition Phase

• Most swelling and bruising have resolved.
• Breasts begin to look and feel natural, though minor firmness can persist.
• You may return to most normal and work activities.
• Underwire bras can usually be reintroduced after week 8.
• Scars lighten from pink to pale beige.
• Continue to avoid direct sunlight on the scar areas.

Goal: Regain routine activity while maintaining scar care and support.

Months 3–6 – Final Maturation

• Breasts achieve their final shape, softness, and symmetry.
• Scars mature — fading gradually over months.
• Nipple and skin sensation continue to improve.
• Normal physical activity, including gym and swimming, may resume.
• Maintain stable body weight and wear supportive bras during exercise.

Goal: Enjoy long-term results and maintain breast shape and scar quality.

Recovery & Lifestyle Tips

• Avoid smoking or nicotine for 4 weeks before and after surgery.
• Stay well hydrated and follow a protein-rich diet to aid healing.
• Sleep only on your back for 3 weeks.
• Protect scars from sun exposure for 6 months minimum.
• Keep all follow-up visits — they ensure optimal healing and scar management.

When to Contact Dr. Ahmed Khazbak

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This plan represents general recovery guidelines after breast lift (mastopexy) surgery. Healing speed, garment use, massage timing, and return to activity vary by individual case and Dr. Ahmed Khazbak’s preference. Always follow Dr. Ahmed Khazbak’s personalised instructions.