How to Prepare for Breast Reduction Surgery

In 2020, there were over 3.2 thousand breast reductions performed in the UK. Breast reduction surgery is a common procedure to reduce the size of the breasts. Overly large breasts can often cause back, neck, and shoulder pain and make exercise frustratingly tricky. If you’re thinking about reducing the size of your breasts, here’s how to prepare for breast reduction surgery. 

Preparing for Breast Reduction Surgery

Be Physically Healthy 

When preparing for breast reduction surgery, the first step is to identify any concerns with your physical health. Surgeons will insist that patients are ideally a non-smoker or can at least quit smoking several weeks before the procedure and are at an optimal weight. They will also need to go through your medical history to ensure that you don’t have medical conditions that could put you at a higher risk of complications during and after surgery. 

Preparing Your Recovery Space 

As you prepare for any type of breast surgery, the more you can organise ahead of time, the better. Pencil in time off work, arrange for someone to pick you up after your surgery and figure out a child or pet care plan if necessary. Think about anything that you will need following your procedure. Stock up on essentials and put them in easy to reach locations. Following the surgery, you will have to wear a post-surgical bra for 6 weeks. Make sure you have everything you need for a smooth breast reduction recovery, including any prescription medication and painkillers if required. 

What Should You Pack in Your Hospital Bag?

Typically, you go home the same day as your breast reduction surgery, but some patients opt for an overnight stay depending on their case. Even if you’re just at the hospital for the day, you still want to bring some personal items to ease your comfort. Here are a few items to pack in your hospital bag:

  • Pyjamas or comfortable clothes
  • Personal toiletries
  • Prescription medication 
  • Post-surgical bra
  • Slippers and dressing gown 
  • Books and magazines 
  • Underwear 

The Night Before Your Breast Reduction Surgery 

The night before your breast reduction surgery is exciting and nerve-wracking. Your surgeon will advise you to fast from a certain time up until your surgery so that there is no food in your system as you go into surgery. Also, as you won’t shower until after the procedure, it’s a good idea to shower or take a bath the night before the procedure. Remove any nail polish, and don’t forget to leave behind any jewellery when you go in for your surgery. 

Before your breast reduction surgery, your surgeon will give you instructions to follow to prepare you for the procedure. It’s essential that you follow your surgeon’s instructions before and after the surgery. These guidelines are in place for your own safety, to optimise results, and to ease your recovery period. 

After your breast reduction surgery, you will feel tired, groggy, and sore. Your chest may feel a little tight. All these symptoms are entirely normal, which is why it’s so important to rest for several days. Preparation is key with breast reduction, as you can set yourself up for a smoother recovery. When everything is ready, you can take the time to rest, heal, and recover from the procedure. 

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