Breast Reduction Surgery Recovery Time and Other FAQs

Life is too short to allow anything to hold you back from making the most of each day. Freedom from pain, ease of mobility, and healthy self-confidence are all things that can easily be taken for granted. For women with large breasts, each of those things can be a daily struggle. If you are uncomfortable because of your oversized breasts, plastic surgery can help you get your life back. It is important to ask the right questions before your breast reduction surgery procedure, so you will know what to expect and be well informed throughout the entire process.

What are the Benefits of Breast Reduction?

Imagine your life without the burden of a heavy chest. Virtually everything you do would be easier, including sleeping, breathing, and moving. The heavy weight of large breasts can cause strain on the back, neck, and shoulders that develops into chronic pain. A breast reduction reduces the weight on your chest and alleviates the related pain.

Any breast reduction patient will tell you the benefits are worth the breast reduction surgery recovery time. Women enjoy increased confidence as their breasts are no longer an unwanted focal point. With their breasts no longer a hindrance to their movement, they also find it easier to be active and exercise.

Am I a Good Candidate?

Breast reductions aren’t just for women with extremely large cup sizes. A woman who feels her bust is out of proportion with the rest of her body would also benefit from the procedure. You are a good candidate if you:

• Do not smoke
• Are in good health
• Would like your breasts to be smaller
• Have realistic expectations
• Have back, shoulder, or neck pain because of your breasts
• Have skin irritation on the underside of your breasts

What Does the Surgery Involve?

Women considering breast reduction plastic surgery in Lubbock are in luck because Dr. Jane Rowley has over 20 years of experience performing this procedure. A breast reduction is always paired with a lift, and the nipple is moved to a higher, more natural position. The size of the areola is usually decreased. You will see breast reduction surgery scars around the areolas, vertical ones to the bottom of the breasts, as well as on the undersides in the creases.

Are There Any Risks?

Every surgical procedure comes with the potential for risks. Breast reduction surgery is a safe and routine procedure when performed by a trustworthy, board-certified plastic surgeon. Women who choose to undergo a reduction should be in good health and not be significantly overweight as these factors contribute to the potential for risks.

When Will I See Results?

Relief from the pain and burden of your breasts is immediate. Even with your surgical garments on, you should be able to notice the smaller size of your bust. After a week the swelling will have gone down enough to reveal significant results. Your breasts will sit higher and look more youthful, but the full results will take a few weeks to present themselves.

How Long is Breast Reduction Surgery Recovery Time?

Each woman’s breast reduction surgery recovery time will vary depending on the size of her breasts. Most women will be able to walk around and take a shower the day following surgery. Some soreness may occur, but the discomfort usually consists of a tight, engorged sensation. The patient will typically need to take 10 to 14 days off work; some women may need to take up to three weeks. Give yourself about six weeks before returning to your full level of activity.

Will Insurance Pay for My Breast Reduction?

Because of the negative effects large breasts can have on your health, insurance companies will often cover the cost of breast reduction plastic surgery in Lubbock. Different companies will have different requirements, but some of the factors they consider include:

• Symptoms (breast crease rashes, bra strap skin grooves, back pain, etc.)
• Documentation of other methods to alleviate symptoms caused by breasts
• Difficulty with mobility or physical activity

Ask your plastic surgeon for tips on how to properly document your health problems related to the size of your breasts.

Breast reduction patients are among the most satisfied plastic surgery recipients because of the significant life changes they experience. Cosmetic surgery is not right for everyone, but it might be if you are unhappy with the size of your breasts and are a generally healthy person. Discuss with your board-certified plastic surgeon your questions about breast reduction surgery recovery time and other important concerns.

Dr. Jane Rowley has performed hundreds of breast reductions during her two decades of plastic surgery experience. She enjoys helping her patients find relief from chronic pain and satisfaction with their physical appearance. If you are ready to let go of the burden on your chest or even if you would like your breasts to look more proportionate with your body, call our office today to schedule a no-obligation consultation.