How long should I stay home from work after a breast reduction?

Question

I plan on getting a reduction next year. I was just wondering what would be the ideal time off to take from work? I work an office job but spend about 80% of the time driving to different locations and standing for long periods of time. We do heavy lifting but only in the summer when we have outreach events. So I plan on getting my reduction in the winter of next year. Also, is there a specific weight restriction? Any help is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thank you for your question.
Most patients are back to work at a desk job within 2 weeks, however, you may not lift anything greater than 10lbs for 3 weeks, and no vigorous activity for 3 weeks. Schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options. Best wishes!

Paul Vitenas, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you very much for your question and
congratulations on your upcoming breast reduction procedure. In general, most
women are ready to return to work 5-7 days after their breast reduction
procedure. This will, of course, depend on your individual healing progression
and the type of work that you do. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise
for four to six weeks. I suggest speaking candidly with your operating surgeon
about your job, following his/her advice on when you can safely return to work.

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Thanks for the question, downtime is a big concern to many and I agree we all have busy lives. I suggest patients to take a week off of work but they can work from home. Back to work/social activities in 1 week and the gym in 3 weeks

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

Most patients are able to return to work after 7 to 10 days as long as there is no heavy lifting. I have my patients wait 6 weeks before returning to any type of formal exercise. Everyone heals differently, best to check with your surgeon. Good luck.

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.  Barring any complications and avoidance of strenuous activity at work you should be able to return to your work around two weeks after surgery. Most of our patients return to work, depending on exactly what is involved at the workplace,  somewhere between 10 days to four weeks after surgery. You may want to run your question by your surgeon after detailing your specific job acquirements.
Best wishes.

How long should I stay home from work after a breast reduction?

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Answer: Returning to Work After Breast Reduction Surgery

Answer: Returning to Work After Breast Reduction Surgery

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Answer: How long should I stay home from work after a breast reduction?

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How long should I stay home from work after a breast reduction?

Answers (9)

Answer: Returning to Work After Breast Reduction Surgery

Answer: Returning to Work After Breast Reduction Surgery

Answer: How long should I stay home from work after a breast reduction?

Answer: How long should I stay home from work after a breast reduction?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.