Are there any short-term risks after breast reduction surgery?
Also known as reduction mammoplasty, breast reduction is one of the most common and popular cosmetic surgeries in the UK. For women, breast reduction was the second most common cosmetic procedure following breast augmentation, with over 4,000 procedures performed in 2023. While the surgery offers many benefits, including improved posture, reduced back pain, and enhanced self-confidence, it’s essential to understand the potential short-term risks and the recovery process.
This guide provides an overview of what patients should expect during breast reduction recovery, including short-term risks and complications, and ways to minimise them.
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- What should patients expect during breast reduction recovery?
- Are there any short-term risks with breast reduction?
- How to reduce potential short-term complications during breast reduction recovery
- Stephen McCulley
- Frequently asked questions
What should patients expect during breast reduction recovery?
Recovery time from breast reduction surgery varies depending on the patient, and requires patience and adherence to post-operative instructions. Taking it easy for the first four days is crucial to allow the body to begin healing and avoid strenuous activities. Make sure to limit any movements, keep your chest elevated and rest.
Engaging in light movements, such as gentle walking, promotes circulation after this initial period. Still, activities like lifting, bending, or raising the arms above the head should be avoided until after three weeks. You should be able to resume normal activities, including returning to work, by six weeks.
Mild to moderate pain is common in the first few days and can usually be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications. It is important to take medications as directed and to notify the surgeon if the pain becomes severe or unmanageable, as early treatment may help prevent complications. Avoid blood-thinning medications, like aspirin, which may worsen bruising.
Read more about what to expect during the breast reduction recovery period with this guide.
Are there any short-term risks after breast reduction?
Though a routine surgical procedure, there are potential short-term risks you may experience during the breast reduction recovery period. It’s important to understand certain complications you may experience in the initial stages after breast reduction surgery, how common they are, and when they are most likely to occur to ensure a successful recovery.
Pain and physical discomfort
When it may occur: Pain is most pronounced in the first few days following surgery and generally subsides over the first week.
Many patients experience tenderness, tightness, and aching in the breast area. Pain can also radiate to the shoulders or back, especially if the surgery involves significant tissue removal. Discomfort is often managed effectively with pain relief medications, but sudden or sharp pain should be reported to the surgeon immediately.
Swelling and bruising
When it may occur: Swelling typically peaks within the first 48 to 72 hours after surgery and gradually decreases in the following weeks.
Swelling and bruising around the incision sites and the breast area are normal parts of the healing process. After your cosmetic surgeon removes the required breast tissue, fat, and skin, it disturbs the nearby tissues. Responding to this, your body will protect itself by rebuilding healthy tissue, which causes swelling and redness. Once the swelling diminishes, the breasts will improve in shape, becoming softer and into the desired aesthetic.
The use of a supportive bra can help minimise these effects. In some cases, swelling may persist for a few months before fully resolving.
Read more about swelling after breast reduction and what to expect here.
Surgical drains
When they may occur: Some surgeons place drains to prevent fluid build-up immediately after surgery.
Surgical drains are small tubes inserted near the incision sites to remove excess blood or fluid. While their presence may cause mild discomfort, they significantly reduce the risk of fluid accumulation and aid in the healing process. When used, drains will remain in between 24 and 48 hours after breast surgery.
Risk of infection
When it may occur: Signs of infection can appear within the first week post-surgery.
Though rare, infections are a potential risk. Symptoms include increased redness, warmth around the incision, pus drainage, and fever. Prompt medical attention is essential if infection is suspected, and a course of antibiotics will be prescribed to lower this risk.
Bleeding and blood transfusions
When they may occur: Uncommon, but bleeding complications can occur in the immediate post-operative period.
In rare cases, excessive bleeding during or after the procedure may require a blood transfusion. Symptoms of excessive bleeding include significant swelling , a rapid increase in pain, and noticeable changes in the size of the breast.
Also, blood clotting is an extremely rare complication, occurring in approximately 1% of breast reduction patients. If a blood clot forms, this will happen within the first 24 hours after surgery, which your cosmetic surgeon will address and remove in theatre.
If you are experiencing any surgical complications that are worrying you, make sure to consult with your breast surgeon.
Request a callback with Stephen McCulley and his team here.
How to reduce potential short-term complications during breast reduction recovery
Proactive care and adherence to medical advice play a vital role in reducing the likelihood of complications:
- Follow post-operative instructions: Adhering to guidelines regarding rest, wound care, and medication use is vital for proper healing. Avoid any activities that may put undue stress on the surgical site, and keep the surgical area clean and dry.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and refraining from smoking will support healing and reduce the risk of complications. Look for foods enriched with vitamins to support the body’s healing process, including Vitamin C and Zinc.
- Attend follow-up appointments: Regular follow-up appointments allow the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns early. Patients should not hesitate to report unusual symptoms or concerns.
- Wound care: Incisions should be kept clean and dry to prevent infection. Follow instructions on changing dressings, and avoid applying any products to the surgical site unless approved by the surgeon.
- Choose a reputable surgeon: Selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast reduction is the most important factor in reducing risks. A skilled surgeon will take precautions to minimise complications and provide detailed aftercare instructions.
Stephen McCulley
Stephen McCulley works extensively as a Cosmetic, Plastic, and Reconstructive surgeon. With desirable accreditations, including a member of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), Stephen believes in honest and open approaches to cosmetic procedures, with in-depth consultations to inform you of your best results.
I am absolutely thrilled with the result of my breast reduction operation. Thank you very much. I was told that you are the best – I think you are better than that!
• ES, Leicestershire
Read more of our breast reduction patient testimonials here.
As you recover from breast reduction, we will remain in contact to ensure everything runs smoothly and that none of the short-term risks will further decline. Between five and seven days after your breast reduction surgery, we will check your wound for any infection and make sure everything is normal. We can answer any of your concerns or questions during these follow-up visits.
After three months, there is a further follow-up appointment with Stephen McCulley and his team as a final send-off to ensure the desired breast shape is achieved without any short or long-term complications .
For more information, contact Stephen McCulley and his team to book an initial consultation for breast reduction surgery.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal to feel numbness or tingling in the breasts?
Yes, temporary numbness or tingling is common due to nerve disruption during surgery. Sensation usually returns gradually over the following months, though some patients may experience permanent changes.
What should I do if I suspect an infection?
If you notice increased redness, warmth, discharge from the incision, or develop a fever, contact your surgeon immediately for evaluation.
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