Breast Reduction Itchiness

If you are considering a breast reduction, understanding the recovery period and putting to rest any fears or anxieties you may have around the side effects of the cosmetic procedure is a key step in getting closer to your ideal body.

In this article, we discuss breast reduction itchiness that some women experience after surgery, including the causes, timescale, and most effective methods of minimising the issue. 

Dr. Omar Tillo is a double board-certified surgeon who specialises in breast reduction surgery. With extensive experience in the field, he has the skills and expertise to design a bespoke surgical approach, taking into account your desired aesthetic as well as your suitability for the cosmetic procedure. 

Why Do Breasts Itch After Breast Reduction?

One of the more common and frustrating side effects of breast reduction surgery is an itching sensation. While this can cause a fair amount of irritation and discomfort for patients, breast reduction itchiness after surgery is a perfectly normal reaction as the skin around the incision site begins to heal. 

There are a couple of reasons why itching is a problem for most women after a breast reduction. 

Inflammation

Following surgery, it is normal for women to experience swelling and inflammation around the surgical site as the body goes through the healing process. This inflammation can often result in itching and dryness, especially during the first few weeks as the wounds begin to heal.

Irritation from Adhesives or Dressings

Hypersensitivity and reactions to adhesive agents may also be responsible for breast reduction itchiness. If this is the case, an antihistamine medication such as Benadryl may be necessary. Furthermore, wearing a compression bra or a restrictive dressing can sometimes cause irritation and itchiness of the underlying skin. 

How Long Does Itchiness Last After Breast Reduction?

Itchiness around the surgical site typically begins seven days after the cosmetic procedure and can last for up to 2-4 weeks. If the itching persists beyond this, or the itching becomes severe and is accompanied by a burning sensation, you may have an infection or an allergic reaction. In this case, contact your surgeon for medical advice. 

How to Minimise Itching After Breast Reduction

There are some important things to remember to help reduce breast reduction itchiness and ease you through the recovery period. 

Avoid Scratching

The most important thing to keep in mind is to avoid scratching the incision site, as this can increase the risk of infection, tearing sutures, and scarring. 

You may find some minor relief by gently applying pressure to the areas around the incision; just avoid touching the exact site itself. 

Use a Cold Compress

Using a cold ice compress can provide relief from the itchy sensation. Just be sure to wrap the compress in a clean towel to avoid direct contact with the incision site. This is because you don’t want to contaminate the incision site by getting the bandage wet or risk the incision splitting open. 

Drink Plenty of Water

Keeping your entire body hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps to reduce dry skin – one of the main causes of excessive itchiness after breast reduction surgery. 

Take an Antihistamine

Your body will produce a large amount of histamines during the healing process, which can cause uncomfortable side effects such as itchiness. Therefore, taking oral, over-the-counter antihistamines is an effective way of minimising these effects.

Don’t Use Creams

Avoid using any anti-itch creams until your incisions have completely closed. You don’t want to get cream in the open wound as this can lead to infection, slowing down the healing process. 

Seek Medical Attention if Skin is Hot

If your skin becomes red and hot to the touch after breast reduction surgery, it may indicate an infection in the area. In this instance, the best thing to do is seek medical attention from your surgeon or doctor in order to identify the problem. 

Is Breast Reduction Worth It?

Breast reduction surgery provides women with results that address both their aesthetic and functional concerns. The procedure can help them to achieve a more proportionate figure while also alleviating the chronic pain caused by large, cumbersome breasts. 

Therefore, despite some of the side effects during recovery such as itchiness, many patients consider breast reduction to be a worthwhile procedure. 

Schedule a Consultation with CREO Clinic Today

If you’re interested in breast reduction surgery, contact us to schedule a 1-on-1 consultation with CREO Clinic today. Our head surgeon, Dr Tillo, will be able to design a bespoke treatment plan for you.