Side Effects after Breast Reduction - What to Expect

Oversized breasts can cause chronic back and neck pain, encumber movement, and impact self-esteem. For women who feel their quality of life suffers as a result of large breasts, breast reduction surgery can help. Breast reduction surgery provides an effective solution for reducing the weight and size of large breasts, helping to create a more proportionate bust line and improve confidence. When preparing for breast reduction surgery, it's important to understand what the treatment entails, including the potential side effects. To learn more about breast reduction side effects, schedule a consultation with Decatur, IL plastic surgeon Stuart Baker.

The Side Effects of Breast Reduction Surgery

Like any surgery, the breast reduction procedure has some potential side effects. Some of the most common side effects include:

• Swelling: Swelling is one of the most common side effects after breast reduction surgery. Swelling is a normal reaction to the trauma that occurred, and a sign that the body is healing. Swelling should subside as the body recovers, but it can often be alleviated with ice packs, keeping the chest elevated by sitting in an upright position, and avoiding strenuous activity. With that said, if swelling becomes worse and is accompanied by redness or pain, it may be a sign of infection or other complication and should be brought to your surgeon's attention.
• Pain and discomfort: Some pain or discomfort should be expected in the few first days of recovery after breast reduction surgery. Pain and soreness is a result of the incisions and the breast tissues being manipulated during surgery. Discomfort can be managed with pain medication that has been approved by your surgeon.
• Bruising: Bruising is another common side effect after breast reduction surgery and, like pain or discomfort, occurs as a result of the tissues being manipulated during surgery. Bruising should fade as the body heals, with the bruises fully fading within about a week or two after surgery.
• Scarring: Although the incisions made during breast reduction surgery are placed in a manner that hides scarring, there may be some visible scarring after surgery. The degree of scarring will depend on the incision type used and personal likelihood of scarring. If scars are apparent, they can generally be hidden by a bra or bathing suit and typically fade over time.

Candidates for Breast Reduction

Women that are unhappy with the appearance of oversized breasts and those who regularly suffer from physical discomfort due to breast size may be good candidates for breast reduction surgery. Women who feel self-conscious or have issues with mobility due to excessively large breasts may also be good candidates for breast reduction. In addition to being dissatisfied or impaired by large breasts, ideal candidates should be in good health and have a healthy relationship with plastic surgery.

Find Out if Breast Reduction Is Right for You

For more information about breast reduction surgery, and to find out if treatment is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Baker.