Large breasts can pose a number of difficulties in your life. Back pain, difficulty shopping for clothing, and unwanted attention are all common complaints. If you're unhappy with the size of your breasts, a breast reduction can help you feel more comfortable in your skin. Many patients report that their back pain disappeared following a breast reduction. Once you've decided to get a breast reduction, you should know what to expect from the procedure and beyond.

1. You will stay in the hospital after your breast reduction.

Breast reduction is usually an inpatient surgery. That means you will likely need to stay in the hospital for a day or two following your operation. This time will allow doctors and nurses to carefully monitor your recovery. You will be given pain medication to ensure your comfort after the general anesthesia wears off. You may also be given antibiotics to help your body ward off infections. Your hospital discharge instructions will let you know what medications you should keep taking when you get home.

2. You will have a minor scar.

Cosmetic surgeons do their best to ensure you have minimal scarring. However, you will probably have a small scar after your breast reduction procedure. Your cosmetic surgeon will make a vertical incision in the lower part of your breast. They will remove unwanted tissue and reposition your nipple so the end result looks natural. As a result, you may have a faint line of scar tissue on the bottom of your breast and around your nipple.

3. You will need to return to the doctor for follow-up appointments.

After you go home following your surgery, you will need to check in with your cosmetic surgeon for follow-up appointments. During these appointments, your doctor will check on your breasts. They will want to make sure everything is healing the way it should without infection or unnecessary scarring. If surgical drains were placed during your surgery, your doctor will take them out at the appropriate time during your healing process.

4. You should be fully healed within six weeks.

Everyone's body is different, which means each woman heals at a different rate. Your recovery will depend on the amount of breast tissue removed and your body's natural ability to repair itself. Some people feel perfectly normal within two weeks, while others feel better after a month has passed. In any case, you should be fully healed and feeling as good as new within six weeks following your procedure.