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How Quickly Can You Return to Work After a Breast Reduction?

Large breasts can cause physical discomfort and emotional distress; however, breast reduction surgery offers relief to those suffering from this burden. Breast reduction can help make the breasts smaller, ease mental anguish, and reduce neck, back, and shoulder pain. But you might be wondering—what’s the recovery process, and how quickly can you return to work after a breast reduction surgery?

At Florida Plastic Surgery and Medspa, double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Kristopher Hamwi can provide answers to your breast reduction questions and help you to determine if breast reduction surgery will address your concerns. Schedule your complimentary consultation today!

What Is a Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that reduces excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin to decrease overall breast size. With more proportionally sized breasts as the primary goal, breast reduction also aims to improve physical discomfort associated with the weight of large breasts, including neck, back, and shoulder pain.

Based on your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals, Dr. Hamwi has multiple incision options for breast reduction surgery, including:

  • Circular pattern around the areola
  • Keyhole-shaped pattern with an incision around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease
  • Inverted T or anchor-shaped pattern

During breast reduction surgery, Dr. Hamwi may also reduce and raise the areola to a more youthful position if necessary.

While breast reduction incision lines do create visible and permanent scars, Dr. Hamwi uses advanced techniques to minimize the scarring. Most breast reduction scars are well-concealed by bras or bathing suits.

How Long is the Breast Reduction Recovery?

Breast reduction surgery is a day surgery, meaning you will return home at the end of the day. You will need someone to stay with you for the first 24 to 48 hours after your procedure. After your surgery, you will be outfitted in compression garments to support the breasts and minimize swelling. These garments should be worn full-time for four to six weeks.

The initial recovery from breast reduction surgery is one to two weeks. Full recovery from a breast reduction procedure can take up to six weeks, depending upon the extent of your procedure and how thoroughly you follow Dr. Hamwi’s post-operative instructions.

How Quickly Can I Return to Work After Breast Reduction?

Returning to work after a breast reduction depends on two aspects: the physical activities required by your job and how you feel post-surgery. Typically, patients require one to two weeks of recovery time off work. Patients may return to light duty work after just a few days. However, those with physically strenuous occupations that require heavy lifting may need a little more recovery time.

Schedule Your Breast Reduction Surgery 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 results. Renew your feminine curves and enhance your confidence by partnering with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Contact us today or call (941) 800-2000 to learn more!