Timeline of follow-up appointments after breast reduction?

Question

Hello, I am contemplating getting a breast reduction over my winter break, but I currently attend school out of state. I know everyone heals differently, but is there an estimated amount/timeline of post surgery appointments that I would need to attend? Would it be better to wait until my summer break or explore options in the area I go to school in? Thanks!

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Glorious6473, Thank you for your question. Every specialist has different protocols for follow up. For my patients they have post operative protocols every day for 10 day approximately from the day after surgery to control the healing process. For more information and recommendations, it is best to consult with one or several board certified plastic surgeons. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.

Martin Benjamin, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello! Every plastic surgeon is a bit different in terms of when we like to see our patients. Typically the initial healing phase is 6 weeks w/ full scar maturation taking up to a full year. I like to see my patients more often than some of my colleagues but do offer virtual follow ups as well for my patients as long as they are recovering well without issues. My typical follow up schedule includes appoint times at: Day 1, Day 7, Day 21, 6 full weeks, 3 months, 6 months and one year (and then once a year thereafter until the patient desires). Make sure to ask your plastic surgeon about a follow up schedule during your consultation and if virtual follow ups are possible. Good Luck!

Caner Kacmaz, MD · Answer

My patients stay at the hospital 2 nights after their breast reduction surgeries. I see them right after the surgery and before they get discharged as well. Ideally, they come back to our office for a post-surgery check-up 4-5 days after their operation. If they come to us from overseas, we ask them to send us 1-month, 3 months, and 6 months post-op pictures so we can assess their healing process. If they are local, then we ask to see them at our office. It's important to be in constant contact for the first year to see the final outcome and make sure the patient is happy with the result. Good luck.

Tommaso Addona, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.
With my breast reduction patients who attend school out of state, it is quite common for their procedure to be done during a break. In my practice, I would have you visit our office within 4-7 days post-operatively to ensure you are healing well. After that, we can schedule your appointments when you are home next or through our virtual visit platform.

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for the question.
Typically after breast reduction surgery, patients are seen in 1 week, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 2 months, 6 months and 1 year post-procedure.
For out of town patients or patients traveling soon after surgery, I typically recommend to stay around for 1-2 weeks after the procedure and the rest of the follow up can be done virtually if needed.
I would encourage you to seek a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to further discuss your options, specific techniques, concerns and expectations.
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzBreast Fellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Glorious6473,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors. My patients usually have  follow up examination during the first 6 months after procedure. It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Anna Steve, MD · Answer

Winter break is an excellent time to schedule breast reduction. A week off prior to returning to desk-style work or school would be very reasonable recovery time. I like to see patients on post-operative day one and then again at one week, but the one week follow-up could be done virtually if you are returning to school out of state.

Ashley Thorburn, MD · Answer

The timeline of follow-up appointments after breast reduction surgery can vary depending on the surgeon’s specific recommendations and the patient’s individual progress. However, here is a general guideline:1. Initial Postoperative Visit (1-2 weeks): Your first follow-up appointment typically occurs within the first week or two after the surgery. During this appointment, your surgeon will assess your incisions, remove any sutures or drains if necessary, and check for signs of infection or complications.2. Second Follow-up (2-4 weeks): Your next appointment might be scheduled 2 to 4 weeks after the surgery. During this visit, your surgeon will continue to monitor your healing progress, ensure that your scars are healing properly, and discuss any concerns or questions you may have.3. Follow-ups at 3-6 months: You’ll likely to have follow-up appointments at 3 to 6 months post-surgery. These visits are essential for tracking your long-term recovery, ensuring that your breasts are healing well, and addressing any residual discomfort or issues.4. Annual Follow-ups: After the initial healing period, it’s a good practice to have annual check-ups with your surgeon. These appointments are aimed at long-term monitoring of your breast health, assessing scar maturation, and addressing any concerns or questions.It’s important to note that every patient’s situation is unique, and the exact timing and frequency of follow-up appointments may vary. Always follow your surgeon’s recommendations and consult them if you have any concerns or issues during your recovery.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thanks for your question! Every surgeon handles follow-ups differently. Generally speaking, the first 2-3 are the most important. After that, they start to spread out a bit and don't need to follow an exact timeline. My guess would be you could have surgery and a couple follow-ups prior to going back to school. Good luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If you have your surgery performed towards the beginning of winter break, you should be fine to return to classes as scheduled.  Any necessary follow ups can be done virtually or during visits home.  The next step is to visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you.

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