Realistically, How Soon After a Breast Reduction Can I, a Hair Stylist, Return to Work?

Question

Massive breasts need a reduction, concerned about holding arms up at work, shampooing clients, etc

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 2 weeks off ( for a “deskjob”) and 3-4 weeks off more strenuous work.  Best wishes.

Gordon Lewis, MD · Answer

I find that most of my patients can return to work full duty after about a week. I think many would be able to go back earlier, but don't want to. I think you too should expect about a week off work. That is not to say you will feel completely normal at a week, but I think it unlikely that you will cause any harm.

Benjamin Van Raalte, MD · Answer

Hair stylists seem to return to work very quickly. Perhaps being self employed and not making money is a good motivator. They return as quick as surgeons. I have had a hair stylist have a facelift and return to work, a little worse for wear though in 2 days. And after a breast aug in 3 days. But realistically you may be sore, and tired. I recommend a week off entirely, and the second week half days, do the customers that cant wait but maybe 4 hours a day, as you will be tired. A breast reduction is major surgery after all. There are significant incisions and no lifting should be done. Good luck!

Guido P. Gutter, MD · Answer

You are absolutely right: The problems with breast reduction in a hair stylist is to hold the arms up to shampoo, color and cut hairs.

	My hair stylist patients on an average need two weeks before being able to return to work if no complications occur. Than if you are "independent" enough with your work schedule start slow with clients you know need little "work" and maybe limit the number of clients daily  for another 10-14 days. If you need less recovery time even better but forcing yourself to work to early will make you sore, unhappy and ultimately your clients too.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

In general, I instuct patients that they can go back to desk work within about a week. I have them limit aerobic exercise for 3-4 weeks and strenuous lifting/exercise for 6-8 weeks. You should probably modify your activity accordingly. Developing a hematoma often requires additional surgery.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

Ms. Flowers, I hope your surgery goes well and produces the look you desire as well as relief from your symptoms. I would agree with the gallery that you could return to work in 7-10 days and that you should book a light day initially to see how you are handling the demands of your job. Best wishes!

Herluf G. Lund, Jr, MD · Answer

Dear DaniFlowers, For most patients in your profession as a hair stylist, the time frame for returning back to work is between 7-10 days. I usually suggest returning on a part-time basis(half days) that allow you to take care of your core clients and then work your way back to full time work. Hope this helps.

Fereydoon S. Mahjouri, MD · Answer

For moderate reduction mammoplasty done by liposuction/liposelection technic, one could return to work ( as a hair stylist ) after few days. For larger reduction mammoplasty, using conventional technics you could return to your work after 5-7 days.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

It would be best to plan for at least 7 to 10 days to get back to work as a hairdresser. If you have healing problems it may be longer. Plan for the worst and hope for the best. You do not want to put excessive pressure on your healing incisions and there will be some associated swelling and pain.

Karol A. Gutowski, MD, FACS · Answer

Breast reduction is a fairly common procedure and many hair stylist have had it done. 

	Most of my patients who had this done can return to working with their arms in 7 to 10 days. I usually advise planning for a lighter work week when returning to work 7 days after surgery.

Realistically, How Soon After a Breast Reduction Can I, a Hair Stylist, Return to Work?

Answers (11)

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