Pre-Op Preparation
Know exactly how to prepare for your breast reduction surgery, from medications and lab work to what to bring on the day of your procedure.
Prepare for your breast reduction surgery
The time between your consultation and surgery day is all about preparation. Most of it is simple, but it matters. The better prepared you are, the smoother your procedure and recovery will go.
Our Connecticut Breast Reduction Center team will give you detailed, personalized instructions. This page covers the general preparation process so you know what to expect as a breast reduction patient in Connecticut.
Your pre-op timeline
Preparation happens over the course of a few weeks. Here’s a general timeline of what needs to happen and when.
Get cleared & get organized
Get ready
Get there
Medical preparations
Before your procedure, we will need to confirm that you’re healthy and ready for surgery. Here’s what that process looks like.
A simple blood draw to check your overall health and clear you for anesthesia. This is typically completed two to four weeks before surgery.
If you’re over 50 or have certain health conditions, your primary care doctor may need to sign off. Our team will let you know if this applies to you.
If you’re over 40 or have a family history of breast cancer, a recent mammogram is usually required before surgery.
We will tell you which medications to stop and which to continue. Never adjust anything on your own without checking first.
Pick up your pain medication, antibiotics, and anti-nausea medication ahead of time so they’re ready when you get home.
Lifestyle adjustments before surgery
Certain habits and substances can interfere with surgery and healing. You’ll need to make some temporary changes in the weeks leading up to your procedure.
Stop these
Continue these
Your pre-op shopping list
It’s much easier to have everything ready before surgery than to scramble afterward when you’re sore and tired. Here’s what to have on hand to help your before & after results look as good as possible.
Surgical bra
Our team will let you know if you need to purchase one in advance or if one will be provided after surgery.
Button or zip-front tops
Get a few loose, comfortable shirts you won’t have to pull over your head. Dark colors are a good idea.
Wedge pillow or extra pillows
You’ll need to sleep elevated on your back for the first few weeks. A wedge pillow makes this much easier.
Ice packs
Reusable gel ice packs help reduce swelling. Always wrap in a towel before placing on your chest.
Your pre-op appointment
About one week before surgery, you’ll come in for a final pre-op visit. Dr. Reilly will review the surgical plan, confirm the technique, take any final measurements or photos, and answer remaining questions. The team will go over your prescriptions, discharge instructions, and logistics for surgery day.
This is also a good time to bring your designated driver or support person so they understand the post-op instructions and know what to expect on surgery day.
What to wear and bring on surgery day
Wear
Bring
Leave at home
Staying healthy before surgery
The weeks before your breast reduction procedure are not the time for big changes. Focus on maintaining your health and keeping things steady.
Keep your weight stable
Significant weight changes before surgery can affect your results.
Eat well
A balanced diet supports healing. Focus on whole foods, fruits, and veggies.
Avoid illness
Wash your hands frequently and stay away from anyone who’s sick.
Common pre-op questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to pre op for breast reduction surgery.
Questions about preparing for surgery?
The Connecticut Breast Reduction Center team is here to guide you through every step. Whether you need help with insurance paperwork, prescriptions, or just have a question about what to expect, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Get in Touch!
Do you have questions, or are you ready for a consultation? Fill out the form, and our team will reach out to schedule your visit.
