20 Days Post Op. Is It Too Early to Start Massaging my Scars? And When Will Swelling Decrease to be the Final Result? (photo)

It’s not unusual for patients to have significant
swelling following breast reduction surgery.The majority of this swelling resolves in 3 to 6 weeks.However, small amounts of residual swelling
may persist for up to 3 to 6 months following surgery.As swelling resolves patients often note a
corresponding decrease in breast size.In most cases this is a relatively minor change.We
generally don’t recommend breast massage in the immediate post-operative
period.This procedure dramatically
alters the breast architecture and massage might create shear forces that might
disrupt the internal healing and lead to seromas, bleeding and hematomas.In the late post-operative period massage is
appropriate and will help soften breast tissue.It’s
important that you discuss this issue with your plastic surgeon before starting
massage in the immediate post-operative period.Your surgeon understands the specifics of your operation and will be
able to provide you with appropriate direction.

I would not recommend massaging the scars till six weeks post surgery. This is because you can snap the internal stitches if you massage too early. By six weeks most of the stitches have dissolved and the scar is also strong enough not to get stretched by massaging it. You should have a very nice result.

Thank you for your question.  Swelling after a breast reduction and final results will take 6-12 months.  I encourage my patients to massage their scars and use silicone sheets 3 weeks post op.  Discuss ypur concerns with your surgeon and follow his recommendations. Best Wishes. 

You should ask your surgeon these questions for their answers, because they know more about your situation. If your incisions aren't crusty and have closed properly, then  you may start scar creams. For swelling, it can take several months for all of it to subside, but the majority of it will disappear in three or four months. Once swelling has subsided, your breasts may decrease in size a bit. 

Yes, it may take several weeks for the swelling to go down and the tissues to settle.  I suggest to may patients to start gentle massage the day after surgery.  However, you should consult with your surgeon and follow their directions.

 

Good Luck.