Do I need someone to pick me up after getting a breast reduction?

Question

Or can I take a cab and get home on my own? I am getting a breast reduction surgery January 6 and I am wondering if I really need someone after its done.

James N. Romanelli, MD, FACS · Answer

We highly recommend that you have a trusted friend or family member with you after your breast reduction. In addition to getting you home safely, this person will also be able to help get situated once you're there. Breast reduction requires general anesthesia, and you'll probably feel groggy and a bit out of sorts for the remainder of the day. You'll want someone to keep an eye on you and lend a hand, at least for the first 24 hours after surgery. Taking a cab by yourself is not advisable.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Generally speaking, a patient should have someone that they trust to take them home and stay with them for the first day or two after surgery. This is particularly true if general anesthesia has been administered. However, you should ask your surgeon what their opinion is on the matter.

Richard A. Bartlett, MD · Answer

You will absolutely need someone to pick you up from your surgery. Since you will also be undergoing anesthesia, it is advised someone stays with you for 24-48 hours after surgery as well.

Sarah Mess, MD · Answer

You will be recovering not only from your surgery, but also from the anesthesia. You will not be fit to drive. Have a friend or family member drive you home and stay with you for the first 24-48 hours.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

It is important to have someone drive you home after breast reduction surgery. Your judgement and alertness is diminished from the anesthesia medictions. It is nice to have someone nearby for at least the first night to provide some TLC (tender loving care) and to provide some stability if needed. For more information on this and similar topics, I recommend a plastic surgery Q&A book like "The Scoop On Breasts: A Plastic Surgeon Busts the Myths."

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

It is always best to be picked up by someone who can also help you and stay with you immediately postoperatively.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

In NY, the law is very specific. Patients who have had anesthesia should not be discharged in their own recognizance after surgery.  A cab driver is not a substitute for a friend or family member who can take you into your own home, insure that medication has been obtained, etc.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

For my office, you must have someone go home with you after surgery.  Best of luck with your surgery.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on the decision to proceed with breast reduction surgery. Although your plastic surgeon will always be your best resource comes to specific instructions, I think you should plan on having a responsible adult pick you up from the surgery facility and remain with you at least for 24 hours, if not longer.  Again, your plastic surgeon will be your resource for more specifics.   Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with and Happy New Year!

Lawrence Bundrick, MD (retired) · Answer

You absolutely need someone to drive you home and preferably stay with you for the first 24-48 hours into recovery. I would not expect any credible surgeon to allow you to take a cab after general anesthesia.