Case #1619 · Pasasdena, CA
Breast Reduction
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This 22-year-old patient from Pasadena, CA desired smaller, perkier breasts. Dr. Cassileth performed a bilateral breast reduction with a vertical breast lift.
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
- Lymphatic drainage starting week 2
- Aftercare
Hyperbaric oxygen series extended to 10–15 sessions for bilateral tissue support.
Bilateral procedures heal more reliably with sustained HBOT.
- Skincare
Sun avoidance and SPF protocol extended through month 12 to minimize scar hyperpigmentation.
Younger skin pigments scars more reliably under sun exposure.
Why this approach
The decisions that shaped this surgical plan.
- Bilateral breast reduction performed in one operative session so symmetry, tissue handling, and final shape track between both sides.
Pre-op preparation
What to do before surgery. Specific to this case.
- Discontinue blood thinners (NSAIDs, aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E) two weeks out. Acetaminophen remains safe; the full list is reviewed at pre-op.
- 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.
Recovery timeline
Milestones specific to this case. Individual recovery varies.
- Day 1–7
Bilateral healing takes a slower start. Expect more chest-wall fatigue through day 5 and a stricter no-lifting rule for the first 10 days.
- Week 2
Activity ramps up cautiously: longer walks, no lifting yet. Most patients return to desk work this week.
- Week 4
Light cardio and most desk-work activities cleared. Lifting limit increases to 15 lb. Scar massage typically starts now.
- Week 6
The "back to normal" week for most patients. Final compression schedule transitions to optional.
- Month 3
Most patients consider this the "final result emerges" milestone. The remaining 10 percent of refinement plays out through month 6.
