Overview
Breast reduction surgery, commonly referred to as reduction mammaplasty, involves the removal of breast skin, breast tissue, and fat. Breast reduction surgery can reduce discomfort and enhance look for persons who have large breasts.
Additionally, breast reduction surgery could enhance one’s sense of self and capacity for physical activity.
Speak with a board-certified plastic surgeon if you are considering breast reduction surgery. It’s critical to comprehend the dangers and potential problems associated with breast reduction surgery. Knowing what the procedure can and cannot do is also crucial.
Why is it done?
People who have enormous breasts that result in any of the following might consider breast reduction surgery:
- Chronic shoulder, neck, and back pain
- shoulder ridges left by the bra straps
- Skin discomfort or a persistent rash under the breasts
- neural pain
- being unable to participate in some activities
- Large breasts lead to a negative sense of self
- difficulty slipping into bras and clothes
Breast reduction surgery is typically not advised for those who:
- Smoke
- are extremely obese
- do not like breast scars.
Any age — occasionally even as a teenager — is acceptable for breast reduction surgery. However, breasts that haven’t fully developed yet can require more surgery in the future.
Risks
The dangers of breast reduction surgery are the same as those of other major surgeries: bleeding, infection, and a negative anesthetic reaction. Additional dangers include:
- Bruising is a transient condition.
- Scarring
- incapability or difficulty breastfeeding
- Size, shape, and appearance variations between the left and right breasts
- Not being satisfied with the outcomes
- Rarely, losing the feeling in your nipples, the skin around them, or both
Your pre-planning
Your cosmetic surgeon probably:
- Examine your medical history and general state of health.
- Talk about the size and aesthetic of your ideal breasts before the procedure.
- Describe the procedure, including any potential side effects such as scarring and loss of feeling.
- Measure and inspect your breasts.
- For your medical file, take pictures of your breasts.
- Describe the kind of medication used to put you to sleep throughout the procedure.
The day following surgery:
Bandages and a surgical bra are used to cover the breasts and keep them in place.
Under each arm, a catheter can be inserted to remove any surplus blood or fluid.
You might be given painkillers and antibiotics to lower your risk of infection.
Following surgery, in the first several days or weeks:
Most likely, the breasts will feel sensitive.
Potentially swollen and bruised breasts
To support the breasts, a front-closing surgical bra is utilized.
And then:
While the breasts heal for 4 to 6 weeks, limit your physical activities.
Always use a surgical bra that has been authorized to decrease swelling and promote breast healing.
Results
Shoulder, neck, and upper back pain can be relieved by a successful breast reduction procedure. Additionally, it might improve one’s capacity for physical activity and foster a more positive view of oneself.
Results will be seen immediately, but it may take many months for the swelling to fully subside and the surgical scars to disappear. Typically, the end outcome is durable. However, aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and other events can alter the size and contour of the breasts.
