Breast Reduction Mammoplasty

Before your surgery

  1. If you smoke it is extremely important that you STOP smoking before surgery. You must discontinue smoking for at least 6 weeks before and after surgery. This is extremely important as the effects of nicotine can greatly compromise the healing process.
  2. Refer to the enclosed list of medications to avoid before and for 2 weeks after surgery. You may take Tylenol at any time. Refer to the enclosed Vitamin List and begin as indicated. Fill the prescriptions sent in your packet.
  3. Bathe or shower with antimicrobial soap for 3 days prior to the day of surgery.
  4. Patients over the age of 40 should have a pre-operative mammogram within 1 year of your procedure. Be sure to request copy for our records.
  5. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery.
  6. Arrangements should be made for a responsible adult to drive you to and from the Center, as well as, someone to be with you for the first 24 hours after surgery.
  7. Purchase 2 bras of the following description: Front closure, all stretch, no underwire or heavy seams. Bring one bra with you on the day of surgery.

After your Surgery

  1. Take prescribed medication as directed.
  2. Try to stay on your back while sleeping or resting for approximately 3 weeks.
  3. For 2 weeks after surgery, upper arm movements such as reach, stretching, and rowing motions should be limited.
  4. No strenuous activities or heavy lifting which could cause swelling or bleeding for 3-4 weeks after surgery.
  5. You may drive after approximately 1 week.
  6. You will be instructed as to when to return to the office for your post-op appointment. All sutures are resorbable.
  7. If either or both breasts appear to be increasing in size or become increasingly painful. Call the office immediately.
  8. You may go home from the center with a drain in each breast.  The doctor will instruct you on care of the drain and when they will be removed.

General Considerations

  1. Please remember that the process of healing does take time, so be patient. Most of the swelling will subside after 2-4 weeks, but subtle changes will continue to take place for several months or longer. it is therefore important to note that your final result cannot be judged before that period of time.
  2. As the small nerve endings return to their normal feelings, you may experience temporary episodes of discomfort or “shooting” sensations. These feelings are normal and may come and go for several weeks, months or longer.
  3. As discussed during your consultation, there may be a degree of loss of sensation in the nipples and breast skin which will most likely be a temporary condition that gradually improves over time.
  4. Any type of bra may be worn after approximately 6 weeks.
  5. Your doctor will instruct you when to start scar care treatment.