Why is my stomach bigger after breast reduction?

Author: Dr. Quinton Trantow  |  Last update: Friday, April 4, 2025

It's normal for the midriff area to be slightly swollen and bloated after surgery. This is due to the body sending more white blood cells and proteins to the area to promote healing - so it's actually quite important to be a little bloated!

Why is my stomach big after breast reduction surgery?

There are many causes of stomach bloating and swelling after surgery. Swelling occurs in the body as the lymphatics have been surgically disrupted. However, it is important to remember that swelling is an important part of the recovery process and is essential for healing!

What does no one tell you about breast reduction?

Breast tissue can be very heavy and the common complaint of breast reduction patience is back pain, shoulder divots from their bra straps, and the inability to participate in sports and other activities.

How do you get rid of belly fat after breast reduction?

Implementing a regular exercise routine, consuming a healthy diet, and monitoring calorie intake can help reduce belly fat. If you are struggling to lose belly fat after breast reduction, contact the medical team at Seattle Plastic Surgery. We offer several helpful treatments to help kickstart your weight loss journey.

Why am I gaining weight after breast reduction?

Why did these young women gain weight after reduction mammaplasty? Hormonal or metabolic changes after puberty could play a role. "Another theory is that healthy lifestyle habits, including exercise and a balanced diet, are not established postoperatively," the researchers write.

How long does the swelling last after a breast reduction? - Dr. Srikanth V

Is it easier to lose weight after a breast reduction?

One of the most significant advantages of weight loss after breast reduction surgery. Most women report feeling much more capable of exercising and maintaining their weight after the operation. It's common for women to lose between 10 and 20 pounds in the months following surgery.

Why did I gain 10 pounds after surgery?

A lot of patients worry about edema after undergoing surgery. They have concerns about weight gain after their procedure. Water retention can cause a patient to put on as much as five pounds to 10 pounds post-surgery. That can be distressing for patients, especially if they've had a body contouring procedure.

What happens to your stomach after a breast reduction?

This is due to the body sending more white blood cells and proteins to the area to promote healing - so it's actually quite important to be a little bloated! However, if you find your belly still isn't back to 'normal' months after your procedure, it might be because your proportions aren't what they once were.

How to keep breasts perky after breast reduction?

DO This
  1. Apply sunscreen to the chest area anytime your skin is exposed. Also, use moisturizer on your chest and breasts. ...
  2. Watch your weight. ...
  3. Exercise the chest muscles. ...
  4. Wear a properly-fit, supportive bra. ...
  5. Consider a breast lift.

What happens if I lose 20 pounds after breast reduction?

As breast reduction surgery tightens up loose, sagging skin and tissue, losing weight after your breast reduction may not only cause more excess, droopy skin but also “deflate” your tightened breasts even further and give you smaller breasts than you'd like to have.

What are the red flags after breast reduction?

You have signs of infection, such as: Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness. Red streaks leading from the incision. Pus draining from the incision.

Do people ever regret breast reduction?

If you feel flat-chested and regret having a breast reduction, There are procedures available to let you love your body and feel confident in your skin. It is possible to gain volume back in your breasts after getting a breast reduction if you regret losing your natural breast size.

What is the best age to get a breast reduction?

Breast reduction is common among mature women 50-60 years old due to hormone changes and possible weight gain from menopause. A thorough evaluation is critical at any age to assess a patient's health, skin condition, emotional maturity and goals.

How do I know if something is wrong after breast reduction?

Difficulty or inability to breastfeed. Differences in the size, shape, and look of the left and right breasts. Not being happy with the results. Rarely, losing the nipples and skin around the nipples or the feeling in them.

Why is my stomach distended after surgery?

During your recovery, your activity level will be significantly reduced. This decrease in movement can lead to fluid retention, increasing your swelling and bloating symptoms. Without being able to engage in the physical activity you usually would, you may even recognise a small weight gain. This is completely normal!

Why can't I lift my arms after breast reduction?

Incision strain: Lifting your arms too soon can stress surgical sites, potentially causing wound breakdown and delayed healing. Worsened scarring: Tension on the chest can result in more noticeable scarring. Pain and swelling: Overhead movements too early can intensify pain, swelling, and bruising.

What size is a large breast?

On the basis of published data and results from this study, it is recommended that patients with a cup size>or=D or a bra size>or=18 could be categorized as having large breasts, with all other patients considered average in size.

Do people look skinnier after breast reduction?

In the process, breast reduction helps tone and trim the upper body, producing a slimmer, more attractive, and more appealing look to all surrounding areas.

Why is my stomach so big after breast surgery?

Abdominal swelling after breast reconstruction is primarily caused by the body's natural response to surgery. Here's why: Inflammation: Surgery triggers your body's natural healing response, which includes swelling and inflammation.

How long does your stomach stay swollen after breast reduction?

Swelling will be at its most extreme around day three. After around the three-week mark, most patients are back at work and can resume a light exercise regimen. However, some swelling will stick around. In fact, it will stick around for at least three months after your surgery date.

When can I go braless after breast reduction?

The timeline for stopping nighttime bra use after a breast reduction varies depending on individual healing progress, but most patients are advised to wear a supportive bra around the clock for at least four to six weeks.

Is it normal to gain weight after breast reduction?

BMI and weight trended upward following surgery, regardless of BMI classification. HealthDay News — Many young women gain weight in the years after breast reduction surgery, according to a study published online in the February issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

How to flush out water weight?

  1. Exercise Regularly. Daily exercise provides several health benefits, including preventing water retention. ...
  2. Drink More Water. Drinking water to reduce water weight sounds counterintuitive, but it helps. ...
  3. Manage Salt Intake. ...
  4. Cut Carbs. ...
  5. Focus on Certain Foods and Herbs. ...
  6. Try Supplements. ...
  7. Up Your Caffeine Intake.

Does drinking water help reduce swelling after surgery?

Maintain hydration

Ensure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and you will give your body a head start in the healing process. Maintaining healthy hydration levels will help your body to flush out toxins, whilst also reducing any bruising or swelling after surgery.

Previous article
Can I let my hair grow without cutting it?
Next article
How many sessions to remove dark spots?