Breast Reduction
Common Problems After Breast Reduction Surgery and How to Avoid Them

Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, is a cosmetic technique that reduces the size of a person’s breasts, chest, or nipples.
In general, the advantages outweigh the hazards, which are both low and uncommon. Still, it’s critical to understand what’s possible before undertaking any significant treatment. Here are the ten most prevalent concerns following breast reduction surgery.
Whether you’re concerned about breast reduction surgery scars, curious about how many days to recover from breast reduction surgery, or seeking clarity on the breast reduction surgery cost Dubai, this guide will provide you with essential insights.
Understanding breast reduction Surgery: A deeper dive
Breast reduction surgery, medically termed reduction mammaplasty, involves meticulously removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to deliver a more proportionate and comfortable breast size.
This procedure alleviates chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain, improves posture, and enhances overall quality of life.
Dr. Faisal Salim’s experience provides a personalized approach to breast reduction surgery in Dubai that addresses individual needs and aesthetic goals.
Breast reduction surgery can lower breast volume by multiple cup sizes, greatly reducing physical discomfort and increasing daily usefulness.
Common problems after breast reduction surgery and how to avoid them: A detailed exploration
- Infections
- Problem: Infection is a potential risk after surgery. Persistent redness, swelling, increased pain, and discharge from the operated sites are worrisome signs.
- How to avoid:
- Following the recovery instructions, including wound cleaning and dressing changes.
- Keeping up thorough hygiene to avoid bacterial exposure.
- Selecting a reputable surgeon like Dr. Faisal Salim, who prioritises sterile surgical environments and employs stringent infection control protocols.
- Hematoma and Seroma: Managing fluid accumulation
- Problem: Hematomas (collections of blood) and seromas (collections of fluid) can develop beneath the skin, causing swelling and discomfort and potentially prolonging the healing process.
- How to avoid:
- Consistent wearing of a supportive compression bra as recommended by Dr. Faisal Salim to minimize fluid buildup.
- Strict avoidance of strenuous activities during the initial recovery phase to prevent excessive movement and strain.
- Diligent adherence to post-operative drainage instructions, if applicable.
- Dr. Faisal Salim’s refined surgical technique minimises these risks through careful tissue handling and haemostasis.
- Scarring: Minimizing visibility
- Problem: Breast reduction surgery scars are an inevitable outcome, but their appearance can vary significantly based on individual healing and surgical technique.
- How to avoid:
- Meticulous adherence to Dr. Faisal Salim’s post-operative scar care instructions, which includes the application of silicone sheets or scar gels.
- Diligent protection of scars from sun exposure, as UV radiation can darken and thicken scar tissue.
- Maintaining a nutrient-rich diet promotes optimal wound healing and minimises scar formation.
- Understanding that healed breast reduction surgery scars will gradually fade over time, becoming less noticeable.
- Nipple and Areolar changes: Preserving sensation and aesthetics
- Problem: Changes in nipple size, shape, or position can occur, impacting both functional and aesthetic results.
- How to avoid:
- Choosing a surgeon with extensive experience in the nipple and areolar preservation techniques, such as Dr. Faisal Salim.
- Engaging in open and thorough discussions with Dr. Faisal Salim regarding any concerns about nipple sensation or aesthetics during the consultation phase.
- Dr. Faisal Salim takes extreme care to retain nipple sensation and shape through precise surgical methods.
- Asymmetry: Achieving balanced results
- Problem: While minor asymmetry is common, a noticeable change in breast size, shape, or appearance can be a source of dissatisfaction.
- How to avoid:
- Pre-operative preparation with Dr. Faisal Salim to create realistic expectations and address specific concerns.
- A detailed discussion of aesthetic goals is essential for ensuring patient and surgeon alignment.
- Dr. Faisal deploys a thorough approach, which includes precise measurements and careful tissue manipulation, reducing the likelihood of asymmetry.
- Delayed wound healing: Supporting the body’s natural processes
- Problem: Some individuals may experience delayed wound healing owing to factors such as smoking, diabetes, or nutritional deficiencies.
- How to avoid:
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and completely abstaining from bad habits.
- Effectively managing underlying health conditions like diabetes to optimize healing.
- Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments with Dr. Faisal Salim to monitor healing progress and address any concerns promptly.
- Fat necrosis: Preventing tissue damage
- Problem: Fat necrosis occurs when fatty tissue in the breast dies, resulting in the formation of firm, palpable lumps.
- How to avoid:
- Selecting a surgeon with precise surgical techniques and a deep understanding of breast anatomy, such as Dr. Faisal Salim.
- Following post-operative care instructions meticulously to minimise trauma to the breast tissue.
- Dr. Faisal Salim’s careful surgical methods reduce this risk.
8. Pain and discomfort: Managing post-operative sensations
- Problem: Post-operative pain and discomfort are expected, but excessive or prolonged pain should be promptly addressed.
- How to avoid:
- Taking the prescribed pain medication to manage discomfort effectively.
- Cold compresses reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
- Ensuring adequate rest during the recovery period promotes healing and minimises discomfort.
Is breast reduction surgery safe? Addressing safety concerns
When performed by a highly skilled and experienced surgeon like Dr. Faisal Salim, breast reduction surgery is considered safe.
However, it is crucial to recognize the potential risks and complications associated with any surgical procedure.
Breast reduction surgery cost Dubai
The breast reduction surgery cost varies depending on a number of aspects, including the procedure’s intricacy, the surgeon’s skill, the facility’s location, and the exact procedures used.
Schedule a personalized appointment with Dr. Faisal Salim for precise information on the cost of breast reduction surgery in Dubai. He will offer a detailed and honest quotation based on your specific expectations and treatment plan.
How many days to recover from breast reduction surgery?
The recovery period after breast reduction surgery varies based on the individual’s healing capacity and the scope of the procedure. Most patients can resume mild activities within a few weeks.
The number of days it takes to recuperate following breast reduction surgery varies depending on the individual’s recovery process. Full healing, including edema reduction and scar fading, may take many months.
Dr. Faisal Salim provides detailed post-operative instructions and continuous care to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.
Choosing a surgeon for breast reduction surgery in Dubai
- Experience and expertise: Seek a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast reduction surgery.
- Personalized care: Choose a surgeon who prioritises understanding your individual needs and aesthetic goals.
- Technology: Ensure the clinic or hospital utilises state-of-the-art technology and maintains high standards of hygiene and safety.
Understanding the breast reduction surgery Dubai market, and that Dr. Faisal Salim is a leading doctor in this field.
Consult Dr. Faisal Salim for Expert Care: Your Partner in Transformation
Dr. Faisal Salim is committed to providing personalized care and achieving natural-looking results that enhance your confidence and quality of life.
With his extensive expertise, meticulous approach, and unwavering dedication to patient satisfaction, you can feel confident in your decision to undergo breast reduction surgery.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Faisal Salim today.
FAQs
Breast reduction surgery involves incisions and tissue removal, so some discomfort is expected. However, pain is typically moderate and manageable with prescribed medications. Patients may feel tightness, soreness, and mild burning sensations for the first 1-2 weeks, but these subside gradually.
Pain Management Tips:
- Take prescribed pain relievers on schedule.
- Wear a supportive surgical bra to reduce discomfort.
- Apply cold compresses to manage swelling in the initial days.
- Avoid sleeping on your stomach or sides for at least 6 weeks.
Breastfeeding after breast reduction surgery depends on the surgical technique used and individual healing. Some women retain full lactation abilities, while others may experience reduced milk production due to the repositioning of the nipple-areola complex and the severing of milk ducts
What can be done?
- If breastfeeding is a future concern, discuss nipple-sparing techniques with Dr. Faisal Salim.
- Some women may still produce milk but need supplementation for full nourishment.
- Consider storing milk if planning to have children in the future.
Breasts go through significant changes after surgery. Initially, they may appear swollen, high on the chest, or asymmetrical.
General Timeline:
- 0-3 months: Swelling is present, breasts appear firmer and higher.
- 3-6 months: Most swelling subsides, breasts begin to soften.
- 6-12 months: Final shape is visible as tissues fully heal.
Yes, many patients opt to combine breast reduction with:
- Liposuction: For refining areas like the bra-line or underarms.
- Breast lift (mastopexy): To improve shape and position.
- Tummy tuck: If looking for a full-body contouring transformation.
Combining procedures may reduce overall recovery time compared to doing them separately. However, it is crucial to discuss with Dr. Faisal Salim whether this is safe for you.
To ensure a smooth recovery and long-lasting results, patients should:
Before Surgery:
- Maintain a healthy, stable weight (fluctuations can alter results).
- Quit smoking at least 6 weeks before surgery (smoking delays healing).
- Avoid blood-thinning medications like aspirin unless advised otherwise.
After Surgery:
- Follow a protein-rich diet to support wound healing.
- Engage in gentle walking after 48 hours to promote circulation.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous workouts for 6-8 weeks.
Medical insurance may cover breast reduction surgery if it is deemed a medically necessary procedure rather than cosmetic.
What Affects Insurance Approval?
- Severe physical symptoms (chronic back pain, skin infections, etc.).
- Minimum tissue removal requirements (varies by provider).
- Documented attempts at non-surgical treatments (like physiotherapy).
Check with your insurance provider to understand eligibility requirements and necessary documentation.
Breast reduction is suitable for women experiencing physical discomfort or self-esteem concerns due to large breasts. You may be a good candidate if you:
- Experience chronic neck, shoulder, or back pain.
- Have deep bra strap indentations or frequent skin rashes under the breasts.
- Feel restricted in physical activities due to breast size.
- Struggle with finding well-fitting clothing.
- Are in good overall health and at a stable weight.
A consultation with Dr. Faisal Salim will help determine if breast reduction surgery in Dubai is right for you!
Patient Testimonials
Dr Faisal was nothing but outstanding during my entire journey in deciding if I should have a deep plane facelift in my 40’s. I didn’t want fillers and other interim interventions, all I wanted was to turn back time with what I had! From the very first consultation to before and after surgery including my many WhatsApp messages during my recovery months Dr Faisal was calm, reassuring and always there for me. It’s now 6 months on and I can honestly say it was the right decision to make. I am thrilled that it doesn’t look obvious that anything has been done but certainly friends and family comment on how fresh and alive I look! I would highly recommend Dr Faisal for his professional, calm, reassuring and expert advice for anyone considering such a big decision in their life. Juli Fairclough-Davis2024-12-05 I couldn’t say enough wonderful things to do Dr. Faisal justice! He listens. He cares. He has deep discussion with you to be certain he is targeting your root problem or concern. His staff is lovely. He doesn’t miss a step! After a botched mommy make over and THEN a trans-abdominal hysterectomy I was left with a massive scar and intense daily pain. Dr. Faisal gave me my life back! After 6.5 YEARS of intense, debilitating, life-altering pain, I am finally set free! My results are truly remarkable. I could not have asked for anything to go better! I am pain free, I have my athletic build back again and can get back to my active lifestyle with my kiddos again! I hope I never need surgery again in my lifetime but if I do- I’ll go to the ends of the earth to make sure it’s in his hands! He’s a realist and will not lie to you. He sets real expectations and then exceeds them by leaps and bounds! I am forever grateful to Dr. Faisal! Kat Overbeck2024-10-17 Cannot fault the service from start to finish. Highly recommend Dr Faisal and the team. Thank you for everything. Alice Williams2024-10-05 My neighbor recommended Dr. Faisal to me , and I am so happy with the result with only 4months now.I have done the breast augmentation and nipple correction. Dr. Faisal is so professional so good, he can hear you and understand what you want, and he did the work perfectly . I am very happy with my breast now. The results are even better than I had hoped. TT &T2024-09-30 Review of Dr. Faisal - abdominoplasty As a diabetic who had embarked on a weight loss journey to improve my health, I found myself facing a new challenge - unsightly loose skin around my tummy. This unexpected outcome of my weight loss efforts impacted my self-confidence, especially when it came to how I dressed and carried myself. Despite the physical transformation I had achieved, the presence of excess skin made me feel self-conscious and hesitant to fully embrace my new body. Therefore, I started researching doctors who could carry out the procedure. Upon scheduling my initial consultation, recommended by a friend, Dr. Faisal meticulously guided me through the surgery, addressing all my inquiries and aligning with my objectives. Prior to the operation, he dedicated time to addressing any concerns, remaining accessible for my numerous questions, and offering detailed instructions for the recovery process. Post-surgery, he closely monitored my progress and was consistently available for support, even during unconventional hours, providing reassurance and comfort. The recovery is always different for everyone but honestly, I felt it was made easier with the great support and did not struggle at all. I was up and about within a couple of days.....obviously with limitations. Now post 6 week mark i can confidently say Dr. Faisal's exceptional expertise resulted in a fabulous result (i find myself constantly checking myself out in the mirror and i can see abs !!), significantly boosting my self-confidence and I would highly recommend him to anyone contemplating this procedure. Puja Gujral2024-09-02 I wholeheartedly recommend Dr Faisal. After having 4 children including a set of twins, I no longer recognized myself when I looked in the mirror. My confidence was non existent. However, the thought of an extended abdominoplasty and breast lift was very daunting. Dr Faisal took the time to explain the whole procedure, recovery and expected outcome in an honest and frank manner whilst allaying any concerns or fears. The result is life changing. I was supported throughout the recovery and I now feel like I have my spark back. I enjoy exercising again and no longer look for baggy clothes to hide my body. Jennifer Durston MA Elip FCCT2024-08-28 I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the outstanding results of my surgeries. I am beyond thrilled with the outcome, and every time I look in the mirror, I feel an overwhelming sense of joy and confidence. Dr Faisal's exceptional skill and artistry are truly remarkable, and I am incredibly grateful to have found such an amazing surgeon. Thank you Dr Faisal for your beautiful work. Louise2024-08-17 Dr. Faisal is an exceptional doctor. Living in Dubai, it's not easy to find the right plastic surgeon. In previous years, I checked many profiles, but somehow I didn't trust them. One day, based on my friend's recommendation (and also after reading excellent reviews), I booked a consultation with Dr. Faisal. He really listens to his patients and answered my long list of questions, even the super silly ones. I didn't go anywhere else, I booked the surgery straight away. The results are just amazing; I got exactly what I asked for. I would highly recommend Dr. Faisal to anyone considering plastic surgery. Dora Czuczor2024-08-08 I had breast reduction surgery with Dr Faisal Salim 2 months ago. I was a GG cup size. Before the operation I searched for a good surgeon in the UAE and abroad for over a year, I selected 3 surgeons to meet with and one of them was Dr Faisal. I chose him because he was friendly and thorough in his explanation of what the surgery entailed and in managing my expectations. He and his team were always ready to answer my questions and his assistant Nazokat has been so lovely and helpful. I went into this surgery, very nervous of course, but fully aware of all the possible outcomes and I ended up with results that surpassed my dream scenario. I am so happy with the size and shape of my breasts. I am now a perky C cup at 43! Beyond the aesthetic aspect of my transformation, the health benefits are numerous; It is much easier to just exist everyday and do mondain activities with ease when it was a struggle before. I am able to keep up with my young children and working out has become so much easier that my fitness goals don’t seem so distant anymore. The positive consequences of this intervention don’t end here; one of the most significant outcomes is the impact on my confidence and self esteem; my family noticed that I’m more outgoing and I engage with others more and seem less reserved. I simply feel a million times better about myself! Dr Faisal did an amazing job and I will forever be thankful to him and cannot recommend him enough. He is a highly skilled surgeon and understands what his patients’ worries and preoccupations are. He is reassuring but honest and upfront about possible challenges which is exactly what I was looking for. This surgery is the best thing I have ever done for myself and I recommend it to every woman who suffers from the burden of having very large breasts. My first visit with Dr Faisal was just a chat about what I was looking for, it was relaxed and I didn’t feel pressured at all. It helped me in realising that this issue that seemed insurmountable could actually be fixed - and now that it is, I wish for every woman who is in the situation I was in to meet with Dr Faisal and get a new lease of life 😊 Laïla Waugh2024-07-25 I want to thank Dr. Faisal for performing on excellent procedure: face lift, neck lift and blepharoplasty- all together during the same surgery- Great ! His bedside manner was excellent. I’m very happy with the results ! This surgery has made a positive impact on my self esteem. Dr. Faisal answered all my questions reassuring me with professionalism at every stage of my journey providing accurate information. Dr. Faisal’s knowledge and skills gave me a very natural look, avoid raising unrealistic expectations. I want to mention also the team at the clinic : friendly and professional. I greatly appreciate everything Dr. Faisal has done for me. Highly recommended- 5 stars. Maria A2024-05-06