Normal to Have Excessive Tightness of Breast After Breast Reduction?

Question

I had a breast reduction 5 days ago. I went from a DD to a small c. I know I have some swelling but I am a little concerned. From the nipple to under the breast crease it is so tight, like its hard for me to sit up straight because its pulling me down. Is it the stitches under there? Swelling? or did the dr pull my skin too tight? help! its very uncomfortable and I gotta go back to work in two days.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	Signs and symptoms that you described at 5 days postop breast reduction should be evaluated by your plastic surgeon. Online consultants cannot make an accurate diagnosis and/or treatment plan.

	Best wishes.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

The tightness is extremely common for the first 3 weeks and worst during the first 4 days due to swelling. Because of this tightness, it is not unusual for surgeons to reinforce these areas with external stitches or staples as this area is more prone to separation in the early post-operative period. As long as one side is not severely different than the other breast and nipple viability remains intact, I would not be overly concerned.

Hayley Brown, MD, FACS · Answer

It is perfectly normal to have breast skin and tissue tightness, and swelling after breast reduction. And yes, there are many stitches throughout. Everything will relax and soften over time. Sometimes it takes several months for the breast to feel soft and natural. Be Patient!. As long as your incisions are healing well, there is nothing to worry about. Limit your activity and protect the surgical site. If you try to rush your recovery, you could set yourself back.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

It is normal to have tightness after a breast reduction surgery

5 days after the surgery, the swelling should be getting better and the tightness should be easing up.  As long as the nipple/areola look healthy and your wounds don't seem to be stretched apart, you should be able to heal well and have no long term consequences.

Sincerely,

Martin Jugenburg, MD

Leo Keegan, MD · Answer

There are certainly stitches along your incision from the nipple to the inframammary fold. At 5 days post op you will have swelling and pain from surgery. It is premature to be considering other problems. Speak to your surgeon and see him or her frequently during your early recovery period to have your concerns addressed.

Normal to Have Excessive Tightness of Breast After Breast Reduction?

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Normal to Have Excessive Tightness of Breast After Breast Reduction?

Answers (7)

Answer: Breast tightness after breast reduction

Answer: Breast tightness after breast reduction

Answer: Recovery after Breast Reduction Surgery

Answer: Recovery after Breast Reduction Surgery

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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.