DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS – BREAST REDUCTION

The Weaver Way | Safety-Centered Care & Excellent Results
Tony L. Weaver, DO, FACS
Board-Certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
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Office Phone: 256-817-6153
Text Line (Non-Urgent Questions): 256-434-7520

“I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,” declares the Lord.
— Jeremiah 30:17


PAIN CONTROL – MULTIMODAL APPROACHPain following breast reduction is expected and is best managed using a multimodal regimen to minimize opioid use while maintaining comfort.

1. Ibuprofen (Motrin) 800 mg
   • Take every 8 hours with food, scheduled for the first 5–7 days, then as needed.
   • Avoid taking other NSAIDs concurrently.
2. Methocarbamol (Robaxin) 750–1500 mg
   • Take every 8 hours as needed for muscle tightness, chest wall discomfort, or spasms.
   • May cause drowsiness—use caution when standing or walking.
3. Percocet 5/325 mg
   • Take only for breakthrough pain not controlled with ibuprofen and Robaxin.
   • Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible.
   • Do not drive, operate machinery, or consume alcohol while taking this medication.
4. Gabapentin 100 mg
   • May take three times daily for nerve-related pain (burning, tingling, hypersensitivity).
   • Most beneficial in the first 48–72 hours after surgery.
   • Discontinue if excessive sedation or dizziness occurs.
5. Phenergan
   • Take as needed for nausea or vomiting, particularly if using opioid medication.
   • May cause drowsiness.

SHOWERING & INCISION CARE

• You may shower starting the day after surgery.
• Gently wash incisions with soap and water—do not scrub.
• Pat dry with a clean towel.
• Your incisions are covered with Prineo skin closure, which should be left intact and allowed to fall off naturally.
• Do not apply lotions, ointments, oils, or antibiotic creams to the incisions unless specifically instructed.

SLEEPING POSITION

• Sleep on your back only, with your upper body elevated using pillows or in a recliner chair.
• No side or stomach (belly) sleeping until cleared by your surgeon.
• Elevation helps reduce swelling and protects your incisions during early healing.

ACTIVITY

• Walk several times daily to promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
• Avoid heavy lifting, pushing, pulling, or strenuous activity.
• No lifting greater than 10 pounds until cleared.
• Avoid activities that significantly elevate heart rate during early recovery.

BRA & GARMENT CARE

• Wear your surgical bra or compression garment at all times, except when showering, unless otherwise instructed.
• Ensure proper support without excessive tightness.

EXPECTED POSTOPERATIVE SYMPTOMSThe following are common and expected:

• Swelling and bruising
• Chest tightness or pressure
• Temporary numbness or tingling
• Mild asymmetry during healing

These typically improve gradually over several weeks.

WARNING SIGNS – CONTACT OUR OFFICE IMMEDIATELY FOR:

• Fever >101°F
• Increasing redness, warmth, or drainage from incisions
• Sudden increase in breast swelling or firmness
• Severe pain not controlled with prescribed medications
• Shortness of breath, chest pain, or calf pain (seek emergency care immediately)

COMMUNICATION

• Urgent concerns: Call 256-817-6153
• Non-urgent questions: Text 256-434-7520
• For emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Seek The Weaver Way® for quality results, safety-centered care, and personalized plastic surgery.