Breast Reduction
Berwick & Mulgrave
Breast Reduction Surgery
While some women may want to increase the size of their breasts, there are many women who seek breast reduction surgery. Large breasts can impact several areas in your life, including being a source of ongoing physical pain or detrimental to your mental health. Bras and clothing can also cause significant irritation on the skin and this can sometimes need constant management, some women can end up with infections from skin irritation.
A breast reduction involves undergoing a surgical procedure to remove excess fat and tissue from your breast area. You can discuss what level of reduction is right for you at your appointment, along with any additional information about shaping or contouring that would most suit you.
Your breast reduction may be required for either medical and health reasons, or for personal choice.
Breast Reduction
Author: Dr Namal Munasinghe
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess breast tissue to achieve a smaller breast size. This procedure is typically performed on women who have large breasts that cause physical discomfort, pain, or self-consciousness. Here are some key points to know about breast reduction surgery.
1. Who is a candidate for breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction surgery is typically recommended for women who have large breasts that cause physical discomfort, such as back pain, neck pain, or shoulder pain. It is also recommended for women who experience skin irritation or rashes under their breasts or have difficulty finding clothing that fits properly. Additionally, breast reduction surgery may be recommended for women who feel self-conscious about their breast size or shape.
2. How is breast reduction surgery performed?
Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes between two to four hours to complete. The surgeon will make incisions in the breast tissue, and then remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. The remaining breast tissue is then reshaped to achieve the desired breast size and shape. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and the patient is given a compression garment to wear during the recovery period.
3. What are the benefits of breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction surgery can provide numerous benefits, including:
Reduced physical discomfort: Women with large breasts often experience back pain, neck pain, and shoulder pain due to the weight of their breasts. Breast reduction surgery can help alleviate these symptoms by reducing the size and weight of the breasts.
Improved self-esteem: Women with large breasts may feel self-conscious about their appearance or have difficulty finding clothing that fits properly. Breast reduction surgery can help improve self-esteem and confidence by achieving a more proportionate breast size.
Better quality of life: Breast reduction surgery can help women feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies, which can lead to a better overall quality of life.
4. What is the recovery process like?
After breast reduction surgery, patients typically experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort. They will need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to help with healing and to minimize swelling. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within two to four weeks after surgery, but should avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for several weeks.
5. What are the risks and complications of breast reduction surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, breast reduction surgery carries some risks and potential complications, such as bleeding, infection, changes in breast sensation, scarring, and asymmetry. However, these risks are relatively rare, and most patients experience a successful outcome from the procedure.
In conclusion, breast reduction surgery can provide numerous benefits for women with large breasts, including reduced physical discomfort, improved self-esteem, and a better quality of life. If you are considering breast reduction surgery, it is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and determine if it is the right choice for you.
