I am nearly nine weeks post breast reduction and I feel as though my breasts have started to swell. Should I be concerned?

Question

More tissue was taken from the left than the right, but post-surgery, the right has been slightly smaller. It now seems the right has started to get a bit bigger. I have increased activity in the last week (just walking more; nothing crazy) and I’m wondering if maybe this is a contributing factor. I was really pleased with my initial results, so the increasing size (be it through swelling or otherwise) has concerned me. Is there anything I should be doing to mitigate this? Thanks for your help!

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Fluctuations in swelling are typically normal after surgery particularly as you become more active.  If you are concerned you should contact your plastic surgeon.

Shagun Aggarwal, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Hi there - fluctuating swelling after breast surgery is common especially when you increase activity. However at 2 months there should be a gradual downward trend and if this is not the case see your surgeon who will examine you and exclude things like a fluid collection (or seroma). This is more likely if just one side has increased in size compared to the other. Hope this helps.

Nick Masri, MD, FACS · Answer

First of all, congratulations on your breast reduction, hilda1985!
What you’re experiencing is normal. You’ll experience swelling for up to 6-12 months after your plastic surgery. It can be on and off during this time, especially during an increase in activity. So, nothing to worry about.
But if swelling seems excessive, please don’t hesitate to contact your reputable and board-certified plastic surgeon for a quick follow-up.
Good luck!

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
Swelling after breast reduction is universal. The trauma of surgery will result in an inflammatory response to the soft tissue "insult". This phenomenon subsides over a period of 6 months to a year after the procedure. It may wax and wane depending upon temperature, activity, and even atmospheric pressure (swelling and discomfort are exacerbated by bad weather!).
"Tincture of time" will remedy the situation, as the inflammation of healing subsides.
If the swelling seems excessive, it may be best to visit your plastic surgeon to be sure all is well.
Best wishes...

I am nearly nine weeks post breast reduction and I feel as though my breasts have started to swell. Should I be concerned?

Answers (4)

Answer: Swelling of breasts 9 weeks after breast reduction

Answer: Swelling of breasts 9 weeks after breast reduction

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I am nearly nine weeks post breast reduction and I feel as though my breasts have started to swell. Should I be concerned?

Answers (4)

Answer: Swelling of breasts 9 weeks after breast reduction

Answer: Swelling of breasts 9 weeks after breast reduction

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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