After the breast reduction operation is complete, the breasts will be wrapped in bandages, and you will be given a surgical bra that you’ll need to wear for one to two weeks to help with support and healing. After this, you can begin wearing a soft sports bra. You may begin wearing an underwire bra at six weeks if it is comfortable for you. Some patients require drains after surgery. These are small tubes inserted into the incisions to help capture excess fluids and reduce swelling.
There will be some limitations after your breast reduction. This is important to keep in mind regarding getting dressed and brushing your hair. You will not be able to lift anything over a few pounds for a couple of weeks (including children), and you cannot put any pressure on the incisions. You may feel more comfortable sleeping elevated for the first week or two. Light exercise is fine after four weeks, and more high-intensity exercise can be introduced after six weeks.
During the first couple of weeks, many patients experience tightness in the chest, bruising on the chest, and soreness and stiffness in the upper body. There is also a risk of minor infection, which resembles scabs. These can be easily treated with antibiotics.
Most patients return to work about a week after their breast reduction (three weeks if the job is physically demanding).