Breast reduction is a very common plastic surgery procedure, with more than 60,000 women across the US requesting the surgery each year. While some patients are looking to breast reduction for cosmetic purposes, other patients are looking to address physical pain, discomfort, emotional distress, and even unwanted attention.
Breast Reduction Questions to Ask Your Plastic Surgeon
During your breast reduction consultation, be prepared to ask questions to ensure you feel confident in your choice of provider and your procedure. But how do you know what questions to ask?
Here’s a list to help you get started.
Are you a board-certified plastic surgeon?
To become board certified, plastic surgeons must complete specific, extensive education and training to pass comprehensive examinations. Selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon ensures you have a surgeon who is thoroughly educated about the procedure and can safely and successfully perform your surgery.
What experience do you have in breast reduction surgery?
As not all plastic surgeons specialize in breast surgeries, ask your surgeon about their experience with breast reduction surgery, including the number of patients they have treated and how often they perform the procedure.
View your surgeon’s gallery of breast reduction before-and-after pictures to see their patients’ results. When reviewing your surgeon’s before-and-after pictures, consider your own goals and ask questions regarding breast size, shape, and how they will complement your frame.
What are breast reduction surgery risks and complications?
While serious risks and complications from breast reduction surgeries are rare, all surgeries have some risks. Your plastic surgeon should explain the risks of breast reduction surgery based on your medical history and the condition of your skin and breast tissues.
What can I expect during breast reduction surgery recovery?
Following breast reduction surgery, you should expect:
- Pain that subsides within a week. Take pain medication as directed.
- Discomfort, tenderness, stiffness, and soreness that improve over two to three weeks.
- Swelling will decrease over three to four months; bruising, itching, or numbness will gradually decrease over a month.
- Sleep on your back with your torso elevated.
- Compression garments or sports bras for four to six weeks to support breasts and minimize swelling.
- Exercise and lifting restrictions for up to six weeks
- No driving after surgery while you are on pain medication
When will I notice the results of my breast reduction?
After your breast reduction, you’ll notice immediate improvements to your figure. However, swelling may temporarily obscure your results. Your body should heal within two to six weeks, and you’ll continue to see improved results over the next months as your body adjusts to its new contours.
You may experience relief from neck, back, and shoulder discomfort immediately.
Additionally, due to the physical enhancements from the procedure, you should also experience immediate improvements in self-esteem.
Schedule Your Breast Reduction Consultation with Dr. Hamwi Today!
Double board-certified Dr. Kristopher Hamwi is one of the top rated plastic surgeons in the country, and he uses his vast training and experience to help you navigate your treatment options for the best breast reduction surgery in Sarasota. Improve your quality of life by partnering with Tampa’s best breast reduction expert! Contact us today or call (941) 263-2618 to learn more!
