What specifically is the danger or risk of lifting more than 5-10 lbs after breast reduction surgery?

Hello,There is no logical reasoning behind such a warning.  Muscle contraction will not put stress on your healing breasts.  If it doesn't hurt, you can do it. Best of luck!

Hi, there.  There is no rule on weight limit or activity level.  I ask my patients to limit activity and avoid pushing/pulling too soon after surgery to avoid breakdown of the incision (from trauma) and to minimize the risk for hematoma/seroma.  Please take it easy during your recovery process and follow your plastic surgeon's post-operative recommendation.  Good luck.

and reflects what your surgeon is comfortable with.  And there is certainly no harm in being super conservative to avoid any problems as you recovery.  My patients are allowed to do as they wish as long as it isn't strenuous (grunt to lift) and bouncy after the first week of recovery and removal of drains.  Strain could lead to vessels popping and resulting in bleeding but the risk is not very great.