Breast reduction recovery may take several months, with most of the healing happening within the first six to twelve weeks.
However, recovering from breast reduction surgery is a gradual process that varies for everyone. This guide takes you through each stage of recovery, week by week, so you know what to expect and how to support your healing.
The first few days
The initial days following your breast reduction surgery are the most critical for your recovery. You’ll likely experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. During this time, it’s important that you get as much rest as you can possibly get, wear your surgical bra, and avoid any strenuous activity.Make sure to get some gentle assistance from family or friends to ensure you’re supported while focusing on your healing.
Week by week
Breast reduction recovery happens gradually, and each week brings its own changes. It’s time to break down the breast reduction recovery week by week, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle the process as your body heals.
Week 1 – Immediate post-surgery care
As your body starts to heal during the first week, you should establish a routine that supports the recovery from your breast reduction.This includes sticking to short, slow walks around the house to encourage circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Avoid sleeping on your stomach or side—lying on your back with pillows to elevate your upper body will help minimise swelling.
You’ll need to clean your incisions as directed by your surgeon, using mild soap and water, and avoid applying any lotions or creams unless recommended. It’s normal to feel fatigued, so focus on small, manageable tasks and don’t hesitate to ask for help with cooking, cleaning, or childcare if needed.
By the end of the week, you may feel less discomfort, but it’s still very important to avoid overexerting yourself. Use this time to rest, hydrate, and give your body the chance to recover.
Week 2 – Settling into recovery
By the second week, the initial swelling and pain should start to subside, although some discomfort may still linger.You might feel more mobile and capable of handling light daily tasks, but you should continue avoiding strenuous activities and heavy lifting.
This is also the time to monitor your incisions for proper healing. Follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions and make sure to attend your follow-up appointments. While you may start to feel better, you should not rush your recovery during this stage.
Week 3-4 – Building momentum
During weeks three and four, you’ll likely notice a significant improvement in your energy levels and mobility. Swelling should continue to decrease, and bruising will begin to fade. Many patients feel ready to resume light activities such as gentle stretching or short walks, but before increasing your physical activity, you must get an OK from your surgeon.
At this stage, you’ll likely feel more comfortable, but your body is still healing internally. Continue wearing your compression bra as advised and avoid any high-impact activities.
Week 5-6 – Approaching normalcy
By weeks five and six, most patients feel ready to return to many of their normal routines, including work and light exercise. Your incisions will continue to heal, and scar visibility should begin to decrease.
You may feel more confident in your range of motion and ability to perform day-to-day activities, but it’s still important to ease back into any physical activities slowly. If your surgeon approves, you may begin incorporating slightly more strenuous exercises, but always listen to your body and stop if you feel any discomfort.
Week 7 and beyond – Long-term healing
After week seven, you’ll notice even more progress in terms of swelling reduction and overall comfort. While the majority of your healing will be complete, it can take several months for scars to fully mature and for your body to adjust to its new shape.
To minimise their appearance over time you should stick to and maintain any recommended scar care routines. Follow up with your surgeon as needed to ensure everything is progressing as expected, and enjoy the results of your surgery as you regain full confidence and comfort in your body.
Advise for a smooth recovery
To optimise your healing process, follow these tips:
· Stick to your surgeon’s aftercare instructions
· Stay hydrated and eat nutrient-rich foods to support recovery
· Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they can slow healing
· Listen to your body—rest when needed and don’t rush back to strenuous activities
FAQ about breast reduction recovery
How long should I wear my surgical bra?
You should wear your surgical bra continuously for at least 4-6 weeks after surgery, or as directed by your surgeon. The bra provides essential support, reduces swelling, and helps your incisions heal properly. You may be able to switch to a regular supportive bra once your surgeon approves, typically after the initial healing period.
Is the recovery period painful?
The breast reduction recovery period can involve some discomfort after breast reduction, particularly during the first week. You may experience soreness, tightness, and tenderness around the chest area, which is normal and can be managed with prescribed pain medication and proper rest.Pain generally subsides after the first two weeks, but some residual discomfort may linger as your body continues to heal.
When can I wash my hair?
You can usually wash your hair 2-3 days after breast reduction surgery, as long as you keep the surgical area dry and avoid raising your arms too high. A gentle sponge bath or help from a family member may be the safest option during the first week. Always follow your surgeon’s specific guidelines on when it’s safe to shower fully.
How long does itching last?
Itching is a common part of the healing process and typically begins as incisions start to heal. It may last for several weeks, with the most intense itching occurring during the first 2-4weeks. Keeping the area moisturised (if approved by your surgeon) and avoiding scratching can help ease discomfort. Let your surgeon know if itching becomes severe, as it could indicate irritation or a reaction to dressings.
Support throughout the breast reduction recovery
Through our platform, you’ll have access to detailed breast reduction recovery guides, reminders for follow-up appointments, and curated tips to help manage each stage of healing.
You can easily communicate with your clinic and have a dedicated space to track your progress. With Adoreal, you’re never alone during your recovery journey—we’re here to help you and support you all along the way.