Case #1497 · Santa Monica, CA
Breast Reduction
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This patient felt that her breasts were no longer proportionate to her body after breastfeeding three children. She wanted to improve the shape and placement of the breasts and to slightly increase the size. Dr. Cassileth performed a mastopexy.
Continued care
Recommended aftercare, skincare, and MedSpa services for Breast Reduction.
- Surgical bra continuously for 6 weeks
- Sleep elevated on your back; no side or stomach sleeping for 4 weeks
- Drains typically removed at days 5–7
- Scar management protocol at 3 weeks
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in early recovery when recommended, to support wound healing and reduce swelling and bruising
- Medical-grade silicone sheeting on the anchor or lollipop incisions
- SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic for scar healing
- SPF 50+ on incisions for 12 months
- Hydrating body protocol while skin retracts
- Laser or microneedling for scar refinement after 3 months
- LED light therapy weekly for the first 8 weeks
- Indiba radiofrequency starting week 2
- Coordination
Recovery medications calibrated to nursing status; hormone panel rechecked if symptoms warrant.
Post-pregnancy hormonal shifts influence healing and skin behavior.
Why this approach
The decisions that shaped this surgical plan.
- Post-pregnancy changes, tissue laxity, muscle separation, and skin behavior, were the central planning inputs. The technique was selected to address each, not just the cosmetic surface.
Pre-op preparation
What to do before surgery. Specific to this case.
- Stop NSAIDs, aspirin, and high-dose fish oil two weeks before surgery; the surgical team provides a full medication list at the pre-op visit.
- No nicotine for 6 weeks before through 6 weeks after surgery. The vascular impact directly affects skin healing.
- No overhead clothing for 3 weeks. Stock front-zip tops, supportive sports bras (post-clearance), and the drain pouches we provide.
- A driver is required the day of surgery and a responsible adult should stay with you the first 24 hours.
- Hormone status confirmed stable; if nursing, scheduling waits until cessation. Sleep, nutrition, and iron levels reviewed pre-op.
Recovery timeline
Milestones specific to this case. Individual recovery varies.
- Day 1–7
Rest, hydration, and short ambulation. Most patients are off prescription pain medication by day 4.
- Week 2
Activity ramps up cautiously: longer walks, no lifting yet. Most patients return to desk work this week.
- Week 4
Return to most low-impact activity. Scar massage, compression, and skincare protocols pick up.
- Week 6
Standard clearance milestone. Patients return to most exercise, gym work, and sleeping in any position.
- Month 3
Tissue softens, scars begin to fade, and overall shape settles toward final. Scar maturation continues for another 6 months.
