In the first day or two after a breast reduction, your breasts will be bruised, swollen and painful. This is normal. Take pain relievers as prescribed to deal with this discomfort.
Your breasts may be quite sensitive to touch for a few weeks. You may be given instructions for putting cold compresses on your breasts several times a day for a few days. For a week or so after breast reduction surgery, you may be told to avoid sexual activity, since this can cause the breasts to be aroused and even more sensitive. Similarly, your first menstrual period after your surgery may cause your breasts to swell and become uncomfortable. For a few weeks, avoid any activities that may result in trauma to the breasts. Your surgeon will give you information and advice on when certain activities may be resumed.
Breast reduction patients are advised to wear a surgical bra after the procedure. You may be told to wear it day and night and remove it only for bathing. This bra will help to support the breasts and will keep them firmly in place as they heal. The surgical bra may be used in the first few days after the surgery and may then be replaced by a standard bra that is both soft and supportive. You might want to buy one or two extra surgical bras in advance, so that you can have one in the wash while you are wearing one.
You may be able to return to work about 2 weeks after your breast reduction surgery, depending on the extent of the surgery and on how active you are on the job. Your surgeon will advise you on this.
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