Breast Reduction in London is a major procedure that begins its healing journey from the very first moment post-op. Whether you’ve chosen a renowned plastic surgeon London or explored plastic surgery in London options, following carefully planned recovery steps ensures the best outcome.
What to Expect Immediately After Breast Reduction in London
Your first hours at home are crucial. If you’re treated by a specialist in plastic surgery in London, or a plastic surgeon London, expect:
- Gentle monitoring and care of your dressings and drains—if used. Most NHS leaflets advise drains are typically removed within 2 to 5 days at home or in a clinic.
- Wearing a soft, supportive bra immediately after surgery—this supports healing and reduces swelling.
- Starting gentle arm and shoulder mobility exercises the day after surgery to prevent stiffness and promote circulation.
Early Recovery Tips from the NHS and Experts
1–2 Weeks: Core Foundations
- Move gently and often: Even short walks around your home help improve healing and reduce complications like blood clots.
- Shower, don’t bathe: You may shower as early as day 1 or 2, particularly if using waterproof dressings—but avoid baths until healed.
- Sleep on your back: Keeping yourself elevated and on your back for around two weeks reduces tension on wounds.
- Take pain relief regularly: Mild pain is common. NHS guidance recommends using regular paracetamol or prescribed medication to stay comfortable.
2–4 Weeks: Regaining Strength
- By week two, bruising and swelling usually ease. You may feel well enough to return to light work or daily routines—especially if your plastic surgeon London supports your progress.
- However, avoid heavy lifting, intense movement or driving until your surgeon confirms it’s safe—usually around 4–6 weeks.
Longer-Term Healing and Scar Care
- Support bra continues: For about 4–6 weeks—accessed when seeing a top plastic surgeon London or within plastic surgery in London clinics—you should keep wearing a supportive sports or surgical bra day and night.
- Scar management: Scars will naturally fade over time, but gentle massage with moisturiser or recommended creams and sun protection (SPF 50) help significantly.
- Patience with final results: Final breast shape and scars can take 6 months to a full year to settle—this is normal, as confirmed by both Wikipedia and NHS sources.
Recovery Summary Table
| Recovery Phase | Focus Points |
| Immediately post-op | Supportive bra, gentle movement, wound/drain care, sleep on back |
| Weeks 1–2 | Short walks, showering, pain management, no heavy activities |
| Weeks 2–4 | Light daily routines, avoid driving/heavy lifting, follow up with your surgeon |
| Months 1–6+ | Scar massage, sun protection, final shape settles, maintain support bra |
Why These Steps Matter
Adhering to recovery guidelines ensures:
- Faster healing and reduced risk of infection or complications
- Proper breast support, preventing downward pull on healing tissues
- Gradual return to activity without stressing wounds
- The best long-term aesthetic and physical outcome—especially under an expert plastic surgeon London or at a trusted plastic surgery in London centre like London Cosmetic Surgery
Referencing London Cosmetic Surgery’s approach to patient-centred care and support underlines the value of choosing a practice that prioritises recovery as much as technique.
Breast Reduction Recovery
Below is a common People Also Ask question about breast reduction recovery:
How long does it take to recover from breast reduction surgery?
Recovery after breast reduction usually involves a few weeks of gradual improvement. Most people return to daily tasks by 2–4 weeks, while full healing and breast shape can take 6–12 months.WikipediaOxford University Hospitals
[Read the Full Article (Source: Wikipedia)]
Choosing Breast Reduction in London demands more than the surgery itself—it calls for a thoughtful, well-supported recovery plan. Work closely with your plastic surgeon London, follow NHS-approved steps, and stay patient—it’s your best route to optimal and lasting results.