How to Prepare for Breast Reduction Surgery

If you are considering breast reduction surgery, you are not alone. Many individuals consider breast reduction surgery to help address discomfort they may associate with large or heavy breasts. Also known as reduction mammoplasty, breast reduction surgery involves removing excess fat, tissue, and skin from the breasts to achieve a more proportional size. In this article, we will take you through how to prepare and care for yourself before and after the procedure.

Book a consultation with Melbourne Plastic Surgeon Dr Carmen Munteanu to find out more about Breast Reduction surgery at her clinic in Mitcham.

If you’re looking for advice, contact us for a consultation. 

 

Pre Operative

Dr Carmen may require you to have blood work done, along with an electrocardiogram (EEG) and breast ultrasound.

These tests are often conducted to help assess suitability for surgery and to minimise potential risks. Note that Dr Carmen may not recommend breast reduction surgery if you are not a healthy weight, or if you have severe underlying medical conditions.

You will need to provide a comprehensive list of current and former medications to your surgeon including multivitamins. If you are on anti-inflammatory or blood thinning medication, let your surgeon know ahead of time so adjustments can be made if required.

If you smoke or drink alcohol, let Dr Carmen know so they can factor this into your care plan and appropriate measures can be taken to keep you safe. Blood tests may be conducted to check that you are at a safe level to proceed with surgery.

If you’re finding it difficult to reduce alcohol or nicotine use, speak with your GP for support. Reducing intake may help optimise your general health before surgery.

Download Dr Carmen’s Guide to Breast Reduction Surgery – Reduction Mammaplasty

Nutrition

While it is advisable to eat nutritious food in general, it is especially important to stay healthy in the weeks leading to and post your surgery. Dr Carmen from Aesthetik Profile advises, “As your body recovers from a major surgical procedure, it needs all the help it can get. Include fruit and berries with antioxidants in your diet. Eat enough protein and drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.

Avoid eating processed food in the weeks before surgery, and eat a variety of green vegetables, fruit, nuts, and healthy fats.

 

What to wear on the day of surgery

Do not wear anything too tight or uncomfortable. A loose-fitting, zip-through jacket, and comfortable lounge or leisure wear is recommended. Remove any piercings and leave your valuables at home.

What to bring with you for  your hospital stay

• Prescription medication and supplements
• Medicare and Private Health Insurance card
• Drink bottle and phone charger,  magazine or book
• Basic Toiletries

Post Operative

Rest is often recommended as part of the recovery process after breast reduction surgery. Prepare for your surgery by scheduling some time off work and strenuous activity. You might want to take one-three weeks off work depending on the type of surgery you have and suspend your gym membership. Your surgeon may advise avoiding strenuous upper body activity, including high-impact exercises, during the recovery period.Wear your surgical garment at all times.

On discharge after surgery, arrange transportation from the hospital as you will not be able to drive for 24 hours post-procedure. You may wish to arrange for a family member or friend to stay with you for a few days.

Find out more about Breast Reduction

While the reduction mammoplasty procedure can provide significant results for many women, it is still a major surgery that requires preparation and aftercare. Speak to your plastic surgeon and please ask your questions before your procedure so that you can make an informed decision!