If you’ve just had breast reduction surgery, it’s important to know how to wash your hair after breast reduction. You’ll want to take special care of your hair during this time because it will be in a state of recovery. The first thing you should do is make sure that all of the bandages and tape are removed from your head so that you can wash your hair in the shower.
Washing your hair after breast reduction surgery can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! Once you’ve removed all of the bandages and tape from your head, take a deep breath and relax. We’re going to walk you through each step so that it’s easy peasy!
How To Wash Hair After Breast Reduction
After undergoing breast reduction surgery, it is important to take proper care of your incisions to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of infection. One common concern for patients is how to shower after the procedure. Typically, patients can resume showering two to three days after surgery. However, before this period, it is recommended to take sponge baths to avoid getting the incisions wet.
During the first few days after breast reduction surgery, it is important to avoid washing your incisions directly. This can disrupt the healing process and increase the risk of infection. It is also advised to avoid washing your hair, as the pulling motion can put stress on your incisions. Instead, focus on gently cleaning your body with a sponge or washcloth, being careful to avoid the surgical site.
Once you are able to shower, it is important to take some precautions to protect your incisions. Here are some tips for showering after breast reduction surgery:
1. Use lukewarm water: Hot water can irritate your incisions and increase swelling. Stick to lukewarm water to avoid any discomfort.
2. Avoid scrubbing: Be gentle when washing your body, especially around the surgical site. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the area to prevent irritation.
3. Pat dry: After showering, gently pat your incisions dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing the area, as this can cause irritation.
4. Avoid harsh soaps: Opt for mild, fragrance-free soaps to avoid irritating your incisions. Harsh chemicals can disrupt the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
5. Follow your surgeon’s instructions: Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines for showering after breast reduction surgery. Follow their instructions carefully to ensure proper healing.
In conclusion, showering after breast reduction surgery requires some extra care and attention to protect your incisions and promote healing. By following these tips and guidelines, you can safely resume your normal showering routine and ensure a smooth recovery process.
GENERAL CARE
During your first few showers, you may feel slightly lightheaded, so it can be helpful to have someone help you or to have a shower stool available for sitting. When drying off after your shower, make sure not to rub your incisions but to instead pat them dry and let them air dry the rest of the way. You should avoid soaking in baths, hot tubs, and pools for at least two weeks, as these can expose your wounds to bacteria and increase your risk of infection.
After undergoing surgery, it is important to take proper care of your incisions to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of infection. During your first few showers post-surgery, you may feel slightly lightheaded due to the effects of anesthesia or pain medication. To prevent any accidents, it can be helpful to have someone assist you in the shower or to use a shower stool for added stability.When drying off after your shower, it is crucial to handle your incisions with care. Avoid rubbing your incisions with a towel, as this can irritate the skin and potentially disrupt the healing process. Instead, gently pat dry the area and allow it to air dry the rest of the way. This gentle approach will help protect your incisions and promote proper healing.It is important to avoid soaking in baths, hot tubs, and pools for at least two weeks following surgery. These environments can expose your wounds to bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. It is best to stick to quick showers during this initial healing period to minimize the risk of complications.Proper wound care is essential for a successful recovery after surgery. By following these guidelines and taking precautions to protect your incisions, you can help ensure a smooth healing process and reduce the risk of infection.
FOLLOW-UP CARE
- For the first 3 days, sleep with your back elevated using pillows for support. After 3 days, you may sleep flat on your back until week 2 post-operative.
- Remove the scopolamine patch from behind your ear after surgery, as it may cause blurry vision when worn for too long.
- Shower 24 hours after surgery. Leave the steri strips on and pat dry with a clean towel.
- Surface sutures are removed in 5-14 days.
- Keep incisions clean and inspect daily for signs of infection.
- If a compression bra was provided, please wear for 2 weeks after surgery.
- Keep steri-strips on for 4-6 weeks as directed by Dr. Barrett.
- After taping, start Skinuva twice daily, massaging firmly into incisions.
- At week 6 post-op, Dr. Barrett will teach you how to massage your implants.
- No baths, hot tubs or swimming for 6 weeks.
- Avoid exposing scars to the sun for at least 12 months. Always use a strong sunblock.
Common Problems After Breast Reduction Surgery
WHAT TO EXPECT
- Temporary pain, soreness, numbness, and/or incision discomfort may occur. This is normal.
- Bruising and swelling is normal in the breasts, as well as the abdomen as it can travel downward due to gravity.
- Light bleeding at the incision site is normal up to 48 hours after surgery.
- The chest area may feel tight as your skin and muscles are reshaping and getting used to your new breast size.
- It can take up to 6 months for nipple sensation to return.
- Breasts will start to drop within 6 weeks post-op.
- It is not unusual to hear a squeaking sound after augmentation surgery. Air pockets around the breast implant are to blame for this. As this air escapes, the sound will resolve.
- Tape blisters may occur. This is normal and will resolve.
- It is expected to take between 3-6 months to see your final results.
- It is normal to feel a bit anxious or depressed in the days or weeks following surgery; but generally, after about a week, you should begin to feel better.
ACTIVITIES
- Walk around the house on the day of surgery and thereafter.
- Move/pump your legs frequently while lying down.
- Resume activities slowly. You may feel tired for the first few days.
- Avoid exercise for 2 weeks.
- At week 2, resume exercise but no impact or upper body. Stair workouts or incline walking are ideal.
- At week 4 you can resume more intense lower body workouts, like squats.
- At week 6 you may resume upper body workouts, using your body as a guide.
- When you do resume exercise, you should wear a tight, supportive sports bra to minimize bounce and droop of the breasts.
- No lifting greater than 8 lbs (a gallon of milk) for 6 weeks.
- No sexual activity for 2 weeks and resume as comfort permits.
CALL THE OFFICE IF YOU DEVELOP ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:
- Fever of 101 degrees F or greater.
- Pain is not relieved with pain medication.
- Swelling, redness, bleeding, and/or foul drainage from the incision area.
- Persistent nausea and/or vomiting.
- Any other concerns.
- If you have not urinated after 6 hours of being home from surgery, please contact our office.