3 Ways to Prepare for Your Breast Reduction
You may be thinking of having a breast reduction for purely cosmetic reasons to help you improve your self-image with a breast size that is more in proportion to your body. However, apart from the artistic improvement in your breasts’ shape and their balance with the rest of your body, significant physical benefits can also come from the operation.
Very often, as a result of the surgery, there is a dramatic reduction in physical discomfort and a significant improvement in body mechanics. Large breasts can cause chronic pain, discomfort, back problems, sleeping difficulties, and other health concerns. If any of this sounds familiar, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Florence Mussat in Chicago, IL, is standing by to help you.
Whatever your specific reasons may be for wanting to undergo breast reduction surgery, here are three essential ways you can prepare for this big day.
1. Get Preoperative Testing
Your preoperative testing may include a breast exam, chest X-ray, mammogram, blood tests, and other health screenings based on your age and medical history. A baseline mammogram taken before your procedure is crucial to monitor your breast health and detect any future mammogram changes.
2. Prepare for Your Procedure
To give your body the best chance to heal well and avoid complications, focus on following a healthy lifestyle, including quitting smoking and losing excess pounds. Dr. Mussat may also suggest that you stop taking specific medications or supplements.
Your preparation includes planning for medical leave from your job and most other commitments. Dr. Mussat can advise on how long you should plan to be off work, but expect to take a break of two to four weeks.
3. Prepare for Your Recovery
Arrange for a ride home after your procedure, and for someone to stay with you the first day, as well as to bring you to your first post-op appointment.
Before your surgery, buy a couple of sports bras. These will give you support and compression as you recover. For sizing, go one cup size smaller, but leave room for bandages and swelling. Make sure the size you choose is comfortable, because you’ll need to wear it 24 hours a day for up to about six weeks.
Keep in mind that you won’t be able to lift heavy objects for a week or two after your surgery. Plan to have things in smaller containers at home, so you can more easily manage them. Since you may also have a limited range of motion, move any items on high shelves to easy-to-reach places.
You’ll also need comfortable clothes, such as slip-on shoes and loose shirts that are easy to get on and off. Have plenty of gauze and clean washcloths on hand as well.
Why Choose Dr. Florence Mussat for Your Breast Reduction?
Dr. Florence Mussat, as a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in downtown chicago, has a passion for cosmetic and reconstructive surgery and has been in private practice for over 20 years. With her help, you can soon be on your way to having smaller breasts, finding clothes that fit, and having less discomfort during physical activities. Schedule a personal consultation with her online or by calling (312) 751-9000 today!