I'm having a breast reduction. What type of diet should I follow after surgery?

Question

I'm a 5'5" 155lb 40yo white F. I am relatively sedentary & trying to maintain weight/lose belly fat on a 1200 calorie 30%carb, 20%protien & 50%healhy fat macro diet rcmmd'd by a dietitian years ago. I'm having a breast reduction in April (34G to 34C/D). What type of diet (food, calories, macros, etc) should I follow during the recovery period to help my body best heal while not packing on lbs or belly fat? Especially during the extra sedentary 1st & 2nd wk?

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question! Immediately following surgery, post-op recovery will consist of a diet you would normally gravitate to when you are getting over the stomach bug. A bland diet avoiding anything greasy or spicy. Protein should always be prioritized during recovery.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Post surgery, you will need extra protein, vitamins, and minerals to heal well. Do increase your calorie intact with extra protein, fruits, and vegetables.  These are the foods we all need to be eating.  We gain weight with sugar and starch and bad oils and fats (ie French fries and hamburgers and pizza and ice cream).

Bryan Curtis, MD · Answer

Following breast reduction surgery, it's essential to maintain a nutritious diet to support your body's healing process and promote optimal recovery. Here are some dietary guidelines to consider after undergoing breast reduction surgery:
1.	Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which aids in wound healing and overall recovery.
2.	Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on consuming a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Aim to incorporate foods from all food groups to ensure you're getting essential nutrients.
3.	Include Protein-Rich Foods: Protein is crucial for tissue repair and wound healing. Include protein-rich foods such as lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, and seeds in your diet.
4.	Eat Foods Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Include foods rich in vitamins and minerals that promote healing, such as vitamin C (found in citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers), vitamin A (found in sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach), and zinc (found in lean meats, seafood, nuts, seeds).
5.	Emphasize Fiber: Incorporate fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts to support digestive health and prevent constipation, which can be a common side effect of surgery and pain medications.
6.	Limit Processed Foods and Sugary Treats: Minimize your intake of processed foods, sugary snacks, and beverages high in added sugars, as they can contribute to inflammation and may hinder the healing process.
7.	Moderate Caffeine and Alcohol: Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol, as they can interfere with hydration and may interact with pain medications or affect sleep quality.
8.	Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body's hunger and fullness cues, and eat small, frequent meals if you have a reduced appetite or experience nausea after surgery.
9.	Avoid Straining During Meals: Avoid heavy lifting or straining during meals, as this can put pressure on your incisions and may cause discomfort.
10.	Follow Postoperative Instructions: Follow any dietary guidelines provided by your plastic surgeon or healthcare team, and consult with them if you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions based on your individual medical history or recovery progress.
Remember to consult with your plastic surgeon for dietary recommendations based on your specific needs and medical history. Following a nutritious diet can help support your recovery and promote optimal healing after breast reduction surgery.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thanks for your question! You should start with light foods after surgery that are easy for your tummy to tolerate. Then, normal food as you feel comfortable. Higher protein will help with healing and recovery. Good luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

When preparing for surgery you want to eat a healthy, balanced diet and maintain regular physical exercise.  I've included a video that I hope you find helpful that addresses pre and post surgery nutritional recommendations.  Good luck with your upcoming procedure!

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

I think you’re making things a little too complicated.
The only dietary changes I recommend for patients after surgery is to get increased fiber intake if you are taking narcotic pain medication after surgery.
Best,
Matt Hagstrom, MD

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