What to Expect After Breast Reduction Surgery Updates, Advice and Lifestyle Tips

Posted on: July 31, 2023

Overview of Breast Reduction Surgery

Chicago Liposuction by Lift Body Center in Schaumburg, IL is proud to offer breast reduction surgery. This procedure can help reduce the size and weight of your breasts, as well as improve their shape and position. The goal of this procedure is to make your breasts more proportionate with the rest of your body. During the procedure, excess fat, skin, and glandular tissue are removed from the breasts to achieve a smaller, lighter, and firmer appearance. Breast reduction surgery can also help alleviate physical discomfort that often comes with large breasts such as back pain, neck pain, shoulder grooving from bra straps, and skin irritation under the breast fold. It can also help restore self-confidence and improve self-image. Our board certified plastic surgeons are highly experienced in performing breast reduction surgery and will work with you to ensure you get the results you desire.

Before undergoing this procedure it is important to understand all aspects of it including pre-surgery preparation, the actual surgery procedure, post-surgery recovery process, potential risks and complications, and final thoughts.

Pre-Surgery Preparation

Prior to undergoing breast reduction surgery, there are several important steps that must be taken in order to ensure a successful and safe procedure. Patients of the Chicago Liposuction by Lift Body Center in Schaumburg, IL should make sure to follow all instructions provided by their surgeon in order to reduce the risk of complications.

Medical Evaluation

Before scheduling a breast reduction surgery, patients must undergo a thorough medical evaluation with their doctor. This is an important step in order to identify any potential health conditions or medications that could interfere with the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. The doctor may also take this opportunity to discuss the patient’s goals for surgery and review what can realistically be achieved through breast reduction.

Quit Smoking

It is essential for patients to quit smoking at least two weeks prior to surgery. Nicotine can cause serious complications during and after surgery, including increased risk of infection and delayed healing time. Additionally, smoking can impede proper blood circulation which can lead to poor wound healing.

Avoid Certain Medications

Patients should avoid taking certain medications prior to surgery as they can increase the risk of bleeding or other complications during the procedure. The doctor will provide a list of medications that should not be taken before breast reduction surgery, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, as well as herbal supplements like St John’s Wort and ginseng.

Prepare for Recovery Time

Breast reduction surgery typically requires at least one week of recovery time for most patients; however, some may require more depending on their individual situation. During this time, it is important for patients to rest and limit physical activity while they heal properly from the procedure. It is also recommended that patients have someone available who can assist them with daily tasks such as grocery shopping or cooking meals if needed.

By following these pre-surgery preparation steps, patients of Chicago Liposuction by Lift Body Center in Schaumburg, IL can help ensure a successful and safe experience when undergoing breast reduction surgery.

Patients must medically evaluate, quit smoking, avoid certain medications and prepare for recovery time prior to breast reduction surgery to reduce risk of complications.

The Surgery Procedure

Breast reduction surgery at Chicago Liposuction by Lift Body Center is a safe and effective procedure that can be completed in as little as two hours. During the surgery, the patient will be placed under general anesthesia to ensure their comfort. The surgeon will then make an incision around the areola and along the breast crease. Depending on the specific goals of the procedure, excess skin, fat, and tissue may be removed from the breasts to achieve a more proportionate appearance. In some cases, liposuction may also be used to remove excess fat from the area.

Once the desired shape and size has been achieved, the remaining tissue will be re-draped over the newly reduced breasts. The incisions will then be closed with sutures, and a compression garment may be applied to help reduce swelling and support the area during recovery.

Areola Reduction

In some cases, patients may also opt for an areola reduction procedure to reduce the size of their areolas. During this procedure, an incision is made around each areola and excess skin is removed to reduce their overall diameter. The edges of each areola may then be stitched together for a more aesthetically pleasing look.

Nipple Repositioning

For patients who have significantly drooping or sagging breasts, nipple repositioning can also be performed during breast reduction surgery. During this procedure, an incision is made around each nipple and it is lifted to a higher position on the breast mound. The nipples are then secured in place with sutures or dissolvable stitches for a more youthful appearance.

At Chicago Liposuction by Lift Body Center, our surgeons take great care to ensure that all procedures are performed safely and with minimal scarring. We understand that each patient’s needs are unique, so we strive to provide individualized care that meets your specific goals.

ProcedureTime RequiredAnesthesia Used
Breast Reduction Surgery2 hoursGeneral Anesthesia
Areola ReductionVariesLocal Anesthesia
Nipple RepositioningVariesLocal Anesthesia

Post-Surgery Recovery

The recovery period after breast reduction surgery can vary depending on individual factors such as age, health, and the extent of the procedure. Generally, patients can expect to be in recovery for approximately six weeks. During this time, it is important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by the Chicago Liposuction by Lift Body Center.

Activity Restrictions

Patients should avoid any strenuous activities or heavy lifting during the first few weeks of their recovery. Patients should also take care to avoid any activities that may cause excessive pressure on the chest area. The Chicago Liposuction by Lift Body Center will provide specific instructions regarding activity restrictions and when they can be lifted based on the patient’s individual needs.

Pain Management

During recovery, some patients may experience pain or discomfort in their chest area. To help manage these symptoms, the Chicago Liposuction by Lift Body Center will provide pain medications to help alleviate any discomfort. Additionally, patients may find relief from cold compresses applied to the chest area and wearing a supportive bra or compression garment.

Follow Up Appointments

To ensure a successful recovery process, it is important for patients to attend all follow up appointments with the Chicago Liposuction by Lift Body Center staff located in Schaumburg, IL. During these appointments, doctors will assess the healing process and make sure that everything is going as planned. In addition to physical examinations at each appointment, doctors may also request imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans if necessary.

It is important for patients to remain patient during their post-surgery recovery period as it takes time for swelling and bruising to subside before final results are visible. With proper care and following all post-operative instructions provided by the Chicago Liposuction by lift body center team, patients can expect a safe and successful recovery process after breast reduction surgery.

Post-surgery recovery requires activity restrictions, pain management and follow up appointments for a successful process.

Potential Risks and Complications

Though breast reduction surgery is generally considered a safe procedure, there are still potential risks and complications associated with it. As with any type of surgery, there is always the risk of infection, excessive bleeding, and reaction to anesthesia. Additionally, patients may experience changes in sensation in the nipple area or around the incision sites. Scarring can also occur after surgery, though this can usually be minimized with proper care and follow-up visits.

Infection

Patients should take all prescribed antibiotics as directed to reduce the risk of infection following breast reduction surgery. Infections can lead to a number of serious health problems such as fever, increased pain, swelling, and redness at the surgical site. In some cases, more extensive treatment may be necessary if an infection does occur.

Bleeding

Excessive bleeding is another possible complication of breast reduction surgery. Patients should alert their surgeon immediately if they experience any signs of excessive bleeding such as blood-tinged drainage from the incision sites or sudden dizziness or lightheadedness. Depending on the severity of the bleeding issue, additional treatments may be necessary to prevent further complications.

Nerve Damage

In rare cases, nerve damage can occur during breast reduction surgery due to trauma caused by surgical instruments or pressure on nerves during the procedure. Symptoms of nerve damage include numbness or tingling in the nipples or surrounding areas that do not improve over time. If nerve damage does occur, physical therapy may help restore sensation over time.

We understand that any medical procedure carries a certain amount of risk. We strive to make sure our patients are informed about all potential risks associated with breast reduction surgery so that they can make an informed decision about their health care choices.

Final Thoughts

At Chicago Liposuction by Lift Body Center, located in Schaumburg, IL, we take pride in providing our patients with a safe and effective breast reduction surgery. We understand that this can be a very personal decision for many women, and we strive to provide the best care possible before, during, and after the procedure.

Our team of highly trained professionals will guide you through every step of the process and make sure that you are comfortable and informed throughout your journey. Before surgery, we will discuss any potential risks or complications associated with the procedure. During the actual surgery, we use only the latest technologies to ensure minimal scarring and optimal results. Afterward, we will provide you with detailed instructions on how to properly care for yourself during recovery.

At Chicago Liposuction by Lift Body Center, patient safety is our top priority. We hope that this overview of breast reduction surgery has provided you with helpful information as you consider this important decision. If you have any further questions about the procedure or would like to book an appointment with us, please do not hesitate to contact us today!