How long does post op swelling last?

Question

I had a breast reduction 10 days ago and am feeling great. I was a 34G and suffered from back pain, headaches, carpal tunnel, the works. It has been a great relief to have the surgery done. That aside, how long should I feel swollen in my sides? I went to get measured for a sports bra to swap out with the surgical, and was measured at a 38D, when the doctor was aiming for a C. My guess is that I am super swollen, so just curious when I can expect this to subside.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

You are very early in your recovery, you will have swelling for several more weeks, even months. However, usually most of the swelling is resolved after 2 weeks, but if you over do things too soon, swelling will return. be sure to follow your post operative instructions. Good luck.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The inflammation and swelling takes at least six weeks to reduce to a point where the breasts begin to feel soft and natural.  Each bra company calculates bra sizes differently, so using cup size alone as a parameter can lead to miscommunication between surgeon and patient. Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Post Op swelling will differ from patient to patient and procedure to procedure. The initial swelling will resolve over the first 6-8 weeks. However, there will still be changes and an evolution of your result over the first 3-6 months.With regards to your specific question, I typically discourage new garment purchases until the patient feels they have reached a plateau. This point will vary but is typically reached within the first 2 months.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear SuperNsch,
I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a breast reduction surgery. However, you are still in the very early stages of the healing process.Your will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively.At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides  you will be able to see the final result of your surgery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.
Swelling takes time to subside. Every patient is different. Reach out to your surgeon with your questions concerns. Best wishes!

Matthew A. DelMauro, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. (Keep in mind that an in-person consultation is necessary for the best advice.) Swelling may take as long as 12 months to resolve completely. It depends on the patient as well as the surgical technique. Be patient, and follow up with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck!
Matthew A. DelMauro, M.D.

Rachel Streu, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi and thank you so much for your question! First of all, I'm so glad you are feeling some pain relief! I like to discuss with my patient's that swelling is likely to stick around for 2-3 months. Swelling may start to subside after a few weeks, but then after you increase your activity it will increase again. I would suggest discussing with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, but I often recommend a stetchy sports bra that can adapt to swelling differences.Congratulations on your breast reduction and best of luck!Sincerely,Dr. Rachel Streu

How long does post op swelling last?

Answers (7)

More Breast Reduction Questions

How common are dog ears in breast reduction surgeries and how can we avoid getting them?

Breast reduction wound has split open and keeps splitting more. How do I stop the incision from opening more? (photos)

Is this a fungus on my nipple 5 month post breast reduction? (photos)

Breast reduction and still too large. Very depressed and stressed. Need suggestions. (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS