Breast Reduction – Risk of Recurrence and Recovery Time
Is there a danger of recurrence after a mastectomy?
Although mastectomy is a successful treatment for breast cancer, it does carry an inherent risk of recurrence. This risk is elevated in patients with high USC/VNPI scores. They are also at higher risk of recurrence if their tumors are large or multicentric. Moreover, patients with USC/VNPI scores of 10-12 have higher risk of recurrence after mastectomy.
While there is a risk of recurrence, it is usually low. Most people with breast cancer have a low risk of recurrence. However, the risk of recurrence is highest within the first two years after treatment. However, it is rare to experience a late recurrence.
Patients with a family history of cancer or a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation have a higher risk of recurrence. However, the likelihood of recurrence depends on several factors, including the type of cancer and how it was treated. Local recurrence occurs in the same part of the breast as the initial diagnosis, while regional recurrence is characterized by cancer spread to nearby lymph nodes and the chest wall.
Recovery time
The recovery time for breast reduction surgery depends on the surgical technique, the type of incision, and the person’s skin type. The surgical scar is a thin, raised line, which is initially pink or red. It will darken as it heals and flatten over time. Patients with darker skin may experience scarring that is more visible, or even hyperpigmentation. The incisions that are made along the breast crease may have a smaller scar because the incisions are horizontal.
The first week after surgery is usually spent resting. After a month or two, patients may return to physical activity, but they should avoid lifting heavy objects. For three to four weeks, it is also important to wear supportive garments for comfort. Sleeping in an upright position and not attempting strenuous movements are also recommended.
After a month, the incisions will be fully healed and patients should gradually return to activities they were doing before the procedure. However, patients should not engage in strenuous activities until they have checked with their doctor first. This is because strenuous activities may put pressure on the muscles related to the surgery. Low-impact physical activities such as swimming, walking, and jogging should be started at least two weeks after the surgery.
Side effects
After breast reduction surgery, the patient will have to deal with a scar that can remain visible for months afterward. Some scars will be lumpy and red, while others will appear as thin white lines. If you are concerned about your scar’s appearance, it’s important to follow post-op instructions carefully. Using ice packs can also help reduce swelling and bruising.
In the first few weeks after the operation, patients should avoid lifting anything heavy, especially those that may put strain on the incision. This can cause bleeding and tension. In addition, patients may experience loss of nipple sensation, which will be temporary. However, most complications are minor and will disappear over time.
The best way to reduce the appearance of breast reduction scars is to start a scar massage as soon as possible after the surgery. The massage should include vertical, horizontal, and circling movements. This method is thought to increase the collagen content of the scar tissue and reduce discomfort. The Moffitt Cancer Center recommends that patients start this treatment about two weeks after the surgery. Ideally, the massage should last 10 minutes and can be repeated up to three times per day.
Cost
The scars from a breast reduction procedure vary in size and appearance. This is because the procedure removes excess skin and tissue. Typically, scarring is visible from the areola region down to the underside of the breast. However, many surgeons take care to minimize the size of the scars. The scars should fade over time.
The incision site from a breast reduction usually looks like a thin line of raised skin. Over time, the scar tissue becomes darker in color. It takes several months or a year for the incision to fully heal. Patients with darker skin are at greater risk of developing hyperpigmentation, keloids, and hypertrophic scars.
Depending on the extent of the surgery, the scars can be permanent or temporary. The technique of your surgeon may determine the amount of scarring. A shorter-scar technique involves making incisions on the lower fold of your breast and the areola. This type of incision is more suitable for women with small to moderate-sized breasts.
Good luck.