Before Breast Reduction Surgery

There are a number of issues that will need to be addressed before your breast reduction surgery. Openly discussing your surgical goals with your doctor will help you achieve the outcome you desire. If you are a breast reduction candidate, read on to learn more about what steps to take before undergoing your breast reduction procedure.

Preparing for Breast Reduction Surgery

Before your procedure, you will meet with your doctor to discuss your expectations for the surgery. During this consultation, your doctor will help you decide on a surgical technique for breast reduction, instruct you about the upcoming surgery, and tell you how to prepare in the days before the procedure. He or she should also highlight what you should expect during breast reduction surgery and after breast reduction surgery. These pre-operative discussions will help to ensure your surgery goes smoothly.

Initial Consultation

Before the breast reduction surgery, the surgeon and patient will discuss the patient’s surgical goals. The doctor can evaluate which goals are within reach and present the patient with a proposed breast reduction surgery plan. The surgeon is responsible for informing the patient about the risks of breast reduction surgery, possible breast reduction complications, and the long-term effects of undergoing a breast reduction. The cost of breast reduction surgery and options for financing your breast reduction procedure can also be discussed at this time.

Surgical Technique Planning

There are several different surgical techniques for breast reduction that can achieve desired breast reduction results, including traditional breast reduction, vertical incision breast reduction, and “scarless” breast reduction. Your surgeon will select a method based on your body type, your health, and what you hope to achieve through surgery. It is important to ask questions about each of these options so that you fully understand your treatment and the anticipated results. DocShop provides additional information on what to expect during breast reduction surgery for those interested in an in-depth account of the procedure.

Pre-Operative Instructions

A week before your operation, do not take any aspirin (or products containing aspirin) as they may increase the risk of serious bleeding. Arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure and stay with you for the first night after surgery. You will not be able to drive yourself home, and some activities may be difficult after the operation. Notify your surgeon’s office if you become sick within the week before your breast reduction surgery. You should not smoke or use nicotine products for the month before your surgery as smoking can significantly lengthen your healing time.

Also, be sure not to eat or drink for at least eight hours prior to your breast reduction. On the day of your breast reduction surgery, avoid using any lotions, creams, or powders and dress in loose, comfortable clothing.

Contact a Breast Reduction Surgeon in Your Area

If you are interested in learning more about breast reduction surgery, we invite you to use DocShop’s directory of cosmetic surgeons to locate a qualified doctor in your area. Contact one of their offices and set up a personal consultation today.