About breast reduction

What is breast reduction?

Breast reduction, often referred to as reduction mammaplasty, is a technique to remove excess breast skin, glandular tissue, and fat in order to achieve breasts that are more in proportion to your body and to relieve the discomfort that comes with having breasts that are too large (macromastia).

Patients may experience both physical and psychological distress as a result of abnormally big breasts. The weight of the patient's breasts may cause physical discomfort in those with macromastia. Some people may find it difficult to engage in routine physical activity due to the associated pain. Some people with macromastia may have emotional anguish or more serious mental health issues as a result of their enormous breasts in addition to the physical complications of the condition..

Patients who do not have macromastia symptoms but are dissatisfied with the size of their breasts can nevertheless have breast reduction as an aesthetic operation, despite the fact that it is frequently done to treat medical problems. Social stigmas and wardrobe issues are two common reasons given by patients who elect to get breast reduction surgery for cosmetic purposes.

Who is a good candidate for breast reduction?

Health and emotional issues might result from having too big of breasts. You might also feel bodily pain and suffering in addition to problems with your self-image. Your capacity to lead an active life may be hampered by the weight of extra breast tissue. As significant a problem as the physical discomfort and agony might be the emotional anguish and self-consciousness that are frequently linked to having large pendulous breasts.

If any of the following applies to you:

  • You are in good physical shape.
  • You set reasonable goals.
  • No, you don't smoke.
  • You are troubled by the perception that your breasts are excessively big, and they prevent you from engaging in some physical activities.
  • The weight of your breasts is causing agony in your back, neck, and shoulders.
  • You have bra strap indentations on your shoulders.
  • The underpart of your breast causes irritation

What are the risks of breast reduction?

The choice to have breast reduction surgery is highly individual. You must choose whether the advantages will help you reach your goals and whether the risks of breast reduction surgery and associated side effects are tolerable.

The dangers connected with surgery will be thoroughly explained by your plastic surgeon and/or plastic surgery personnel. You will be required to sign consent paperwork to show that you are aware of all the risks and potential issues associated with the surgery you will be having.

Risks associated with breast reduction surgery include:

  •  
  • tape, adhesive, suture materials, blood products, topical treatments, or injectable substances allergies
  • hazards of anaesthesia
  • Blood loss (hematoma)
  • Clots of blood
  • asymmetrical breasts
  • abnormalities in the breast's form and contour
  • changes in the breast or nipple feeling that could be brief or long-lasting
  • Deeper structures, including the nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and lungs, may sustain temporary or permanent damage.
  • problems related to cardiac, pulmonary, and deep vein thrombosis
  • disproportionate breast firmness
  • Deep within the skin, fatty tissue can perish (fat necrosis)
  • a buildup of fluid
  • Infection
  • Pain that may last Painful wound healing
  • Surgery revision is a possibility.
  • maybe being unable to breastfeed
  • possible loss of breast skin or tissue where incisions meet
  • Possible, complete, or partial loss of the nipple and areola
  • inflammation, long-term pigmentation alterations, skin discoloration, and bruising
  • Bad scarring

You should be aware that:

  • Certain diagnostic procedures may be affected by breast reduction surgery.
  • Infections can result from breast and nipple piercing.
  • If you intend to nurse a child after having a reduction mammaplasty, discuss this with your doctor as it may affect your capacity to breastfeed.
  • You can get a breast reduction treatment at any age, but it works best when your breasts are completely developed.
  • Pregnancy changes to the breasts, as well as major weight changes, can affect the results of prior breast reduction surgery.

Surgery and medical treatment are not exact sciences. Although positive outcomes are anticipated, there is no assurance. In some cases, a breast reduction operation alone may not be sufficient to get the best outcomes, necessitating additional surgery.

Where will my procedure be done?

Breast reduction operations can be carried out in a hospital, an ambulatory surgical centre, or your plastic surgeon's licenced office-based surgical facility. Your comfort and safety are the top priorities for your plastic surgeon and the supporting personnel.

When you return home

Seek medical help right away if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, or strange heartbeats. You could need hospitalisation and further care if any of these side effects from breast reduction occur.

Surgery and medical treatment are not exact sciences. Although positive outcomes are anticipated, there is no assurance. In some cases, a single surgical treatment might not be sufficient to produce the best results, and a second surgery can be required.

Be cautious

The outcome of your surgery depends on you following your doctor's recommendations. During the healing process, it's crucial that the surgical incisions not be subjected to too much stress, abrasion, or motion. You'll receive detailed instructions from your doctor on how to take care of yourself and reduce the dangers associated with breast reduction surgery.

Make sure to ask inquiries: Asking your plastic surgeon all of your questions up front is crucial. It is normal to experience some worry, whether it be preoperative tension or anticipation of the expected result. Talk to your plastic surgeon about these emotions.

What should I expect during my recovery?

Concerning recuperation from breast reduction surgery, many patients have questions.

After your breast reduction surgery is finished, the wounds will be covered with bandages or dressings. To reduce swelling and support the breasts as they heal, wear an elastic bandage or support bra.

To temporarily drain any excess blood or fluid that may accumulate, a tiny, thin tube may be inserted under the skin.

You will receive detailed instructions for recovering from breast reduction, which may include:

  • How to look after your breasts after a breast reduction procedure
  • drugs that can be used topically or taken orally to promote healing and lower the risk of infection
  • specific issues to watch for following surgery or with your general health
  • When to consult your plastic surgeon again

To learn more about what to anticipate during your particular recovery period, be sure to ask your plastic surgeon specific questions.

  • Where will I be taken when my procedure is finished?
  • What prescription drugs will I receive or be given following surgery?
  • After surgery, will I wear dressings or bandages? Will they be taken out when?
  • Are the sutures taken out? When?
  • When can I get back to my regular routine and exercise?
  • When do I go back for additional treatment?

What results should I expect after breast reduction?

Breast reduction surgery will produce long-lasting results. You should no longer face the discomfort and physical restrictions you did before having your breasts reduced thanks to your new breast size.

Your self-image and confidence will probably improve as a result of your better-proportioned body.

But as you age, lose weight, experience hormonal changes, and experience gravity, your breasts may vary over time.