I am a server. How long after a breast reduction until I can go back to work?

Question

I am a server at a fine dining restaurant. I don't necessarily lift heavy things, but I do carry trays that I will stack plates or drinks on. If I plan to return to work after a week, what exactly does one mean by no "lifting"? Surely after a week I can lift a glass of water, correct? What would be the weight limit for the few weeks following this procedure? When could I get back to carrying (not necessarily lifting) a 15 pound tray of china again?

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for enquire.To give post-operative advice, i individualize each patient according surgery complexity, to garantize a better post op recovery and results.On the other hand, the average of Breast Reduction patients can return to an "office job" (not involve sweat or load weight) after ten days post-op.If it is a job that involves activity or heavy lifting, i recommend returning to work 3 weeks post-op to prevent surgery damage.Best regardsDr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Ralph Trey Aquadro, MD · Answer

The recovery for breast reduction (or any surgery) varies with the individual.  I allow my patients to resume non-strenuous work once they are not taking any narcotic pain medication.  This can be as early as 2-3 days post-op or as long as 2 weeks.  Best of luck,Trey Aquadro, M.D.Auburn, AL

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Typical these parameters are set by your plastic surgeon.  In my practice I recommend patients returning to administrative types of work in 10-14 days.  Lift restrictions would maximum of 20 for six weeks.  Please check with your doctor as to his or her specific instructions

William Bruno, MD · Answer

Most patients can return to work (as a server) in about four to five days after surgery. A breast reduction does not involve your chest muscle (pectoral muscle) so there are no real restrictions with regard to lifting. You will likely still be sore but can still go to work. Discuss this in more detail with your plastic surgeon in person after you are examined.Best wishes,Dr.Bruno

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

There are many variables when it comes to getting back to work after a breast reduction.  Activities where you have to lift above the level of your shoulders and bouncing of the breasts should be avoided.  Many women will be able to return to similar type work at one week while others may need more like two weeks.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Usually I have patients wait about 3-4 weeks before starting any significant exercise. However, most patients can go back to light duty within a week or so.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your decision to proceed with breast reduction surgery; it is one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform.Patients who have more strenuous occupations (like yours) may require more time off than patients returning to a desk job,  depending on exactly what is involved at the workplace. You may want to run your question by the surgeon involved after detailing your job  acquirements.  Generally, assuming no complications, you may benefit from 1 weeks off ( for a “deskjob”) and 2-4 weeks off more strenuous work.  Best wishes.

I am a server. How long after a breast reduction until I can go back to work?

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