For women who undergo breast reduction surgery, the procedure may mean finally having the ability to exercise without limitation and discomfort. Despite the temptation to get back in the gym as soon as possible, though, it is essential for breast reduction patients to wait an adequate amount of time after surgery before resuming their fitness routine in order to let their bodies heal properly and completely. Board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. James N. Romanelli and Dr. John Layliev, along with the exceptional team at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery, take great pride in helping Long Island, NY patients change their lives for the better through breast reduction surgery. They are committed to guiding them through a safe, comfortable, and seamless recovery so that patients can get back to their favorite activities as quickly as possible.
If you have been considering breast reduction, you have likely thought about the implications it will have on your lifestyle, both positive and negative. While the final results can be overwhelmingly satisfactory, it is important to have realistic expectations for the recovery period and what all it entails. Furthermore, having a basic understanding of the procedure itself, including how it is performed and what results are possible, is helpful in preparing yourself for surgery and the postoperative period.
What is a breast reduction?
A breast reduction is a surgical procedure designed to decrease the size and volume of the breast, as well as reposition the breasts to a more natural and youthful level on the chest through the removal of excess skin, fat, and tissue. During breast reduction, the surgeon typically makes an incision around the areola and vertically down the center of the lower portion of the breast. Breast tissue, fat, and skin are surgically removed. The nipple is then repositioned, and the remaining skin is tightened and sutured together, effectively raising the breast.
Who needs a breast reduction?
Ultimately, undergoing a breast reduction is a personal decision, though not necessarily a purely cosmetic one. Many women suffer from frustrating and painful symptoms associated with overly large breasts, including:
- Muscle aches
- Neck and back pain
- Numbness and tingling in the arms and hands
- Loss of nipple sensation
- Skin rashes
- Difficulty with running, jogging, or other exercises
- Emotional distress
Regardless of your reasons for pursuing breast reduction, the caring and compassionate team at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery in Huntington, NY is here to help.
How long is the recovery after breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction recovery can vary from patient to patient, but, in general, there are a few things you can count on. In the first several days after surgery, patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and fatigue. Your doctor will give you prescription medications and other recommendations to help relieve these symptoms, and it is important to get plenty of rest during this time. After 2 – 3 days, most patients should be able to walk around the house and do simple daily activities without much difficulty, though some motions – like raising your arms above your head – may be painful or even impossible.
Typically, breast reduction patients elect to take 1 – 2 weeks off work, depending on the physical demands of their job. After returning to work, it is extremely important that patients continue to follow their doctor’s postoperative guidelines, specifically when it comes to taking medications, attending follow-up appointments, and refraining from heavy lifting and strenuous physical activity.
The majority of the swelling from breast reduction usually subsides after 2 – 3 weeks, but it can take much longer for the final results of the procedure to become visible. Once cleared by their surgeon, most patients are able to resume almost their normal daily routine after about 4 – 6 weeks.
When can I exercise after my breast reduction?
For patients who exercise regularly, having surgery can interrupt their regimen and, understandably, cause some level of anxiety. However, it is imperative that breast reduction patients strictly adhere to their surgeon’s recommendations regarding physical activity following the procedure in order to ensure they have the best possible chance for full healing and ideal results. Resuming physical exercise too soon after breast reduction can result in tearing of the sutures, breast asymmetry, and other complications, which may lead to the need for a second or subsequent revision procedure.
In general, patients are able to resume some light walking relatively quickly after their surgery – usually after about a week. Jogging should not be resumed until cleared by the doctor, which may take up to four weeks or more. Weightlifting is typically the last activity to be cleared, and it may take six weeks or more until you are able to safely lift. While you may feel more like yourself after a week or two into your recovery, keep in mind that there are many healing processes taking place under the surface, and allowing yourself ample time to rest and recover is crucial for a successful overall result.
Am I a good candidate for breast reduction in Long Island, NY?
If you have been thinking about undergoing breast reduction surgery in Long Island, NY, the first step is to be evaluated by a qualified, certified, and experienced plastic surgeon. Generally speaking, breast reduction candidates should be over the age of 18, be in relatively good health, be nonsmokers, and desire a decrease in the size and volume of their overly large or heavy breasts.
The best way to determine if a breast reduction is right for you is to call our convenient Huntington, NY office today to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. James N. Romanelli or Dr. John Layliev. The professional team at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery looks forward to helping you get relief from your pain, boost your confidence, and regain your life with breast reduction procedure.
