Swelling after breast reduction

With the intention of having smaller breasts, you may experience the same size before the operation, which is due to accumulation of fluids, that is, swelling. Don’t ever panic, as swelling is only a minor price for getting rid of excess weight on your chest and a more youthful look.

Is it normal to have swelling?

Yes, it is normal to have swelling. It is a common side effect of breast reduction operation and is caused by your body’s inflammation sensitivity to the wound. In order for swelling to be controlled, you can wear compression clothing to assist retain your breasts during the start of recuperation.

Swelling will usually be at its peak a week following the operation, then start to subside after that. Breast reduction operation may require anywhere from 6 to 9 months to achieve an overall outcome; therefore, you could still feel minor swelling throughout this period.

After breast reduction, swelling in many other parts of the body, like the ribs and even your feet, is normal and should not be a reason for worry, as gravitation can lead to swelling to migrate down the body.

All in all, swelling is common after breast reduction operations, and it lasts much longer than any pain or bruises. Upon your operation, you might predict to observe noticeable swelling for several weeks and moderate swelling for up to a few more months.

How to reduce swelling after breast reduction

Implementing these steps will help you minimize swelling following breast reduction operation:

Getting a lot of water: After a breast reduction, it is critical to stay hydrated. To be well supplied, drink at least 2 liters each day. You might notice that having a measuring cup helps you keep count of how much water you’re taking. Taking more liquid may seem like it will cause any surgical swelling to be harsher, but it really helps to minimize swelling by cleansing your body.
Having a well-balanced and varied food intake: To recover, your system requires nutrition. After a breast reduction, healthy diets can help decrease surgical swelling and bruises while also boosting tissue recovery. Eat a well-balanced diet high in amino acids, fiber, diverse carbs, essential nutrients, and iron. This will aid in the regeneration of wounded tissue, as well as the maintenance of healthy fluids and electrolytes.
Careful usage of your medications: Upon treatment, medicines are required to control any physical discomfort. As you depart the hospital after your breast reduction, your doctor will provide the required medications. You should refrain from taking any substances that may interfere with your body’s fluids and electrolytes when using pain killers. If you don’t, the swelling may stay there as a result of imbalanced fluid distribution.
Maintaining an active lifestyle: Although you should limit intense exercise following a breast reduction, you should try to stretch your body every day afterward to assist decrease surgical swelling and minimize the likelihood of blood clots. Try to go for a short walking every day, then contact your doctor for some workout recommendations after your treatment. However, following a breast reduction, you must prevent carrying anything weighty or stretching over your head.
Minimizing the salt concentration in your food: Salt leads your system to retain fluids, causing swelling to increase. Eliminate pre-prepared and packaged products like canned soups and stews, as well as crackers and other junk foods, to maintain your salt consumption minimally. Do not fully eliminate salt from your meals, as it can result in a hazardous illness known as hyponatremia.

How long does swelling go down after breast reduction?

While the flesh and muscles recover, surgical swelling is at its maximum in the initial weeks following the operation. Swelling may start to decrease by the end of the first week, however, the complete and ultimate outcomes of your breast reduction operation will probably take six to 12 months. Nevertheless, this does not imply that you will be restricted in your hobbies and journeys throughout this period: the bulk of swelling will subside in 7 to 10 days following the operation, and you can be ready for work in 3 to 5 days and adjusted back into regular schedule in two to four weeks.

Although the majority of the breast reduction healing occurs in the initial 4 to 6 weeks, leftover swelling may linger for up to 3 months.

The complete and ultimate outcomes of your breast reduction operation will most probably take six to twelve months. After one year, you will be all freshened up!

References:

https://www.kevinbrennermd.com/procedures/breast/breast-reduction-beverly-hills/reduce-swelling/

https://www.verywellhealth.com/breast-reduction-recovery-2709779