Breast Reduction Surgery

About The Treatment

Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure designed to reduce the size and weight of large breasts. This surgery can alleviate physical discomfort, improve posture, and enhance the overall appearance and symmetry of the breasts. It is often sought by individuals experiencing pain, discomfort, or self-consciousness due to excessively large breasts.

Indications for Breast Reduction

• Chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain

• Skin irritation beneath the breast crease

• Difficulty participating in physical activities

• Posture problems

• Grooves in the shoulders from bra straps

• Breast asymmetry

• Emotional distress or self-consciousness

Procedure Steps

Consultation and Planning:

• Goals, expectations, and medical history is discussed with the surgeon.

• Physical examination and measurements of the breasts.

• Preoperative instructions are provided, including guidelines for medications, smoking cessation, and health optimization.

Anesthesia:

• General anesthesia is typically used, ensuring the patient is asleep and pain-free during the procedure.

Incision Techniques:

• Vertical (Lollipop) Incision:

  • Incisions are made around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease.

  • Suitable for moderate to heavy reductions.

    
    

• Donut (Periareolar) Incision:

  • Incisions are made around the areola only.

  • Suitable for minor reductions and lifting.

    
    

• Anchor (Inverted-T) Incision:

  • Incisions are made around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the breast crease.

  • Suitable for significant reductions and reshaping.

• Tissue Removal and Reshaping:

  • Excess breast tissue, fat, and skin are removed.

  • The remaining breast tissue is reshaped to create a smaller, lifted breast.

  • The nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher, more youthful location. In some cases, the size of the areola is also reduced.

Closing the Incisions:

• Incisions are closed with sutures, and the surgeon may place drainage tubes to prevent fluid accumulation.

• Dressings or bandages are applied to support the breasts during initial healing.

Recovery and Aftercare

Initial Recovery:

• Patients typically stay in the surgical facility for a few hours to overnight.

• Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common.

• Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed.

Postoperative Care:

• Patients are advised to wear a surgical bra or compression garment to minimize swelling and support healing.

• Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities, and sleeping on the stomach for several weeks.

• Follow-up visits with the surgeon to monitor progress, remove sutures, and manage any drainage tubes.

Long-Term Care:

• Results are typically visible within a few months as swelling subsides and tissues settle.

• Scarring is permanent but typically fades over time and can be minimized with proper care.

• Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle helps preserve results.

Benefits

• Relief from physical discomfort and pain.

• Improved posture and ability to participate in physical activities.

• Enhanced breast appearance and symmetry.

• Increased self-confidence and emotional well-being.

• Reduction of skin irritation and shoulder grooves.

Risks and Complications

Scarring: 

• Permanent scars that may be prominent, especially if not properly cared for.

  
  

Changes in Sensation: 

• Temporary or permanent changes in nipple and breast sensation.

  
  

Asymmetry: 

• Possible differences in size, shape, or nipple position between the breasts.

  
  

Infection: 

• Risk of infection at the incision sites.

  
  

Healing Issues: 

• Poor wound healing or tissue necrosis, particularly in smokers or those with certain medical conditions.

Breastfeeding Difficulties:

•  Potential challenges with breastfeeding after surgery, depending on the extent of tissue removal.

Candidate Suitability

Ideal Candidates:

• Individuals with large, heavy breasts causing physical discomfort or emotional distress.

• Those in good overall health with realistic expectations.

• Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking before and after surgery.

  
  

Not Suitable For:

• Individuals with certain medical conditions that impair healing.

• Those with unrealistic expectations or seeking a minor reduction (alternative treatments may be more appropriate).