The breast reduction operation is carried out under a general anaesthetic and takes between sixty and ninety minutes. Immediately after the surgery you will have dressings on both breasts and a drainage tube will be in place under each arm to remove excess fluid. These normally need to stay in place for a day or two, but sometimes longer is required. When fluid has stopped draining the tubes are removed.
It’s normal to feel tired and sometimes nauseas after a general anaesthetic but this wears off within twenty-four hours. Medicines are available to reduce pain and nausea. Care is taken to avoid infection with prompt treatment with antibiotics given when necessary. Women having breast reduction surgery normally stay in hospital for two days, and may be off work for two weeks.
Most centres advise women to wear a properly fitted supporting bra for several weeks day and night after breast reduction surgery, until healing is well underway.
Breast reduction information summary:
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Procedure time
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60-90 minutes
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Anaesthetic
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General
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Time in hospital
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Two nights
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Time off work
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Two weeks
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Breasts feel sensitive for
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2-4 weeks
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Time for scar tissue to heal
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6-18 months
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Time to resumption of normal activities (including sports)
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2 months
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