Does Swelling After a Breast Reduction Fluctuate..somedays They Look Larger then Others? (photo)

Question

I am almost 6 weeks post op...I knw swelling gradually decreases over a period of months, But somedays I feel like they look more swollen then other days..is this possible? (and I dont mean during menstration)...also my left breast is more swollen then the right. Not by alot but enough for me to notice. I knw this is normal but when can i expect them to even out?

James N. Romanelli, MD, FACS · Answer

You should certainly raise these questions with your surgeon, but 6 weeks is not a long time.  It takes probably 3 – 6 months for the swelling to fully resolve after a breast reduction, so don’t feel that you have your final result right now.  Swelling fluctuates depending on many factors:  salt intake, menstrual cycle, time spent lying down versus upright, and maybe even the type of bra you wear. Take comfort and check in with your surgeon.  Best regards.

Tim Neavin, MD · Answer

Thank you for the photos.  You will notice that swelling will go up and down for several months following surgery.  When it comes to symmetry, they will never be 100% symmetrical. By 3 to 6 months virtually all of the swelling should have gone down. Your result looks very good.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the breast reduction procedure;  it seems like you have achieved a very nice result.

	Yes, fluctuation of “swelling” and changing of the breast appearance is quite normal. Although your breasts may never be absolutely symmetrical, you can expect them to reach a “steady state” approximately 6 months to one year after the surgery has been performed.

	Congratulations again on what appears to be a very nice result.

Kevin Brenner, MD, FACS · Answer

From your photos, it appears that you have a nice result from your breast reduction. Resolution of post-operative swelling is unpredictable,and may take several months. Be patient and wait before entertaining any further intervention.

Gregory Sexton, MD · Answer

Your photos appear to show some minimal asymmetry, but what appears to be an excellent result. it will take 3-4 months before you can really compare them and judge.

Does Swelling After a Breast Reduction Fluctuate..somedays They Look Larger then Others? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Swelling may take several months to resolve

Answer: Swelling may take several months to resolve

Answer: Breast reduction

Answer: Breast reduction

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Does Swelling After a Breast Reduction Fluctuate..somedays They Look Larger then Others? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Swelling may take several months to resolve

Answer: Swelling may take several months to resolve

Answer: Breast reduction

Answer: 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.