Breast reduction surgery—while performed for cosmetic, personal, and medical reasons—can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life. Like with other breast surgeries, the results are generally not considered final until nine to twelve months post-surgery. However, this is due to residual swelling, settling of the skin, and more nuanced aspects of recovery that an untrained eye will not necessarily recognize.
Therefore, from a patient’s point of view, they often ask, “How long after breast reduction will I know my size?” This is an important question because patients will likely need to buy new bras and potentially other new clothing following a breast reduction surgery. There is no easy answer to this question because it can vary widely depending on a patient’s healing process, response to surgery, and the specifics of their procedure.
Immediate Breast Reduction Results
Right out of surgery, patients will likely notice a difference in the size of their breasts. However, in the two to three days after surgery, this will become distorted due to swelling, bruising, and other side effects of healing from major surgery. While most visible side effects should resolve within about two weeks, swelling can last several weeks or even months after surgery.
Patients will wear a surgical bra for about eight to twelve weeks post-surgery. This bra has no underwire so it does not irritate the incisions or place undue pressure on the breasts. It also offers adequate support for your healing breasts. Therefore, until your surgeon says you can completely cease wearing the surgical bra, it is unlikely to will get an accurate measurement for your new bra size.
Measuring Your New Breasts
Twelve weeks after surgery, patients may be able to get an accurate measure. However, generally, it is recommended that patients take the measurements multiple times over a few weeks to ensure no major changes in size. While occasionally there may be significant size changes after this period, it is usually safe for most patients to begin buying new bras at this point.
Size Predictions
Before undergoing breast reduction surgery, you and your surgeon will likely discuss what size you would like to be and what size would work best for your body size and type. Generally, there is a goal size in mind. However, based on various factors, the exact size may or may not be achieved. Usually, the final size is close to the predicted size.
In the operating room, your surgeon will likely be able to get a good idea of what your final breast size will be. They may even take measurements once the surgery is complete, but before side effects begin to settle in.
Breast Reduction Surgery In Seattle
Seattle Plastic Surgery offers personalized breast reduction that can help patients find relief from pain and issues stemming from having overly large breasts. Our surgeons have decades of combined experience and perform all manner of breast surgeries on a weekly basis. To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 206-324-1120. Patients can also reach out online via chat, contact form, and Price Simulator.
Dr. Jonov is a cosmetic surgeon who specializes in plastic surgeries of the face, breast, and body at Seattle Plastic Surgery.
