What does recovery look like after a breast reduction? January 25, 2023 For the first 24 hours following your breast reduction from Heights Plastic Surgery, it is normal to experience moderate pain in the chest and nausea as a result of the anesthesia used during surgery. Your surgical dressings and surgical bra may be removed after 48 hours of surgery. After about two to three days following your breast reduction, you may resume showering as normal. We recommend avoiding the use of narcotic pain medication after three days. Within 1 to 2 weeks, you may return back to work and resume low-impact daily activities and exercises provided your breasts are supported. Driving is typically not recommended until it is no longer painful to wear a seatbelt. Around 6 to 8 weeks after your breast reduction, you may resume normal activities and workout routines without hesitation. Within about three months following your procedure, your breast reduction scars will begin to fade and your breasts’ final shape will begin to settle.