How to reduce swelling after breast reduction?

Clinic Hunter

How to reduce swelling after breast reduction?

The rate of swelling recovery and disappearance varies from patient to patient. However, for all patients, there are things you can do to prompt the recovery and reduce swelling. These are:

1. Follow all the post-op instructions, e.g. wear a recovery bra, apply cold compress for oedema.
2. Stay hydrated – drink at least 2 liters of fluids (water is the most recommended) daily to flush out your body and keep a proper hydration level.
3. Try to eat a healthy, nutritious and varied diet. Nutrients from a balanced and healthy diet can help reduce swelling and bruising after surgery. A diet high in fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates provides the nutrients which your body needs to heal faster.
   Supply vitamins, minerals and iron. Implementing vitamins, minerals, and iron to the diet can further help your body heal and reduce swelling. Some swelling may result from the accumulated fluid.
4. Add antioxidants to your diet. Foods rich in antioxidants and vitamins give your body what it needs to heal faster. These include:
   a)Fruits: goji berries, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, purple or red grapes, dates
   b)Vegetables: kale, artichokes, red cabbage, spinach, beets, sweet potatoes, carrots.
   c)Nuts: almonds, walnuts, pine nuts, pecans.
5. Make sure you keep an active lifestyle. Of course, a lot of rest is needed and welcomed after surgery. Once you are comfortable with this, for about 48 hours after surgery, move frequently with light exercise that you can tolerate without reaching over your head or lifting heavy objects. Walking is an activity that is highly recommended from the very beginning.
6. Do not reach or lift overhead. Exercise lightly and do not lift heavy objects, straighten your arms, or stretch them over your head as you go about your daily routine. These should be avoided entirely in the beginning and are mitigated as recovery progresses.