I am 10 days status post breast reduction; and i have noticed symmetry differences is this normal? the right breast is hard/swollen and bruised. the left breast is smaller, not very swollen, not as hard, and certainly not as bruised. i'm concerned the rig

I : I believe what the plastic surgeons would tell you is that while you have swelling and bruising you are not seeing your breasts in their final form. If one breast is more bruised and swollen than the other, it would stand to reason that the swelling could cause that breast to be larger while it is healing.

After : After breast reduction, swelling is very common and some degree of bruising is usually present the first week. A size asymmetry can be associated with large reductions or significant prexisting asymmetries. Extensive bruising with or without a resolving underlying hematoma could explain the listed symptoms; an ultrasound could determine if there is something that should be drained. Final results will take longer but should not be significantly altered with only bruising or minor fluid collection. Close follow-up with the surgeon is the best management until the symptoms resolve. Don j peterson md.

Many : Many a times - one side is bruised more and swollen more. Before all the swellings are gone, it may be few weeks to three months. Also, please tell your surgeon about the asymmetry - so that he will make sure that there is no collections. In most patients some asymmetry will persist for ever.

I : I would not be overly concerned.It sounds as though you mayhave had a little more brusing or bleeding on the right side which, given enough time should go down.I would judt be patient.Heat and massage may help.www.beautybybrueck.com.

Your : Your question is very good because so many people want to know when they will be healed and able to see the final result. Since no two breasts are exactly equal it is understandable that you will see some differences but it sounds like you have a lot of healing differences between the two sides. You will need to allow at least three months to make a final determination. At this time the tissue swelling and bruising will be mostly gone. Even if a secondary procedure is needed to balance things you will want to wait at least three months before considering this. Keep in contact with your surgeon and see how everything heals. Best wishes dr. Peterson.