What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
1. What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery, medically known as “reduction mammaplasty,” is a procedure designed to remove excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve a breast size that is in proportion with the body. The surgery can alleviate discomfort associated with overly large breasts and also improve breast shape and nipple position.
2. What Techniques Are Used in Breast Reduction Surgery?
- Inferior Pedicle Technique (or “anchor” technique): This involves three incisions: around the areola, vertically down from the areola to the breast crease, and horizontally along the breast crease.
- Vertical or “Lollipop” Technique: This involves two incisions: one around the perimeter of the areola and the other vertically from the areola to the breast crease.
- Liposuction-Only Breast Reduction: For cases where excess fatty tissue is the primary concern rather than glandular tissue, liposuction can be used.
3. Who is Recommended for Breast Reduction Surgery?
- Women experiencing physical discomfort, pain, or limitations in activity due to large breasts.
- Individuals facing skin irritations beneath the breast crease.
- Those with sagging, stretched skin and enlarged areolas.
- Women with breasts that hang low and have nipples pointing downward.
- Those who are self-conscious about the size of their breasts.
4. When is Breast Reduction Surgery Not Recommended?
- Individuals planning to breastfeed in the future, as the surgery might affect breastfeeding capability.
- Those with certain health conditions or smokers, as it might impede healing.
- Patients with unrealistic expectations or seeking perfection.
- Individuals not in a stable weight range, as weight fluctuations can affect breast size.
5. The Procedure Process
- Consultation: A detailed discussion about the desired size, potential risks, and benefits.
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia or intravenous sedation is administered.
- Incisions: Depending on the chosen technique, the surgeon makes the necessary incisions.
- Reshaping: Excess tissue, fat, and skin are removed; the nipple is repositioned, and the areola might be reduced.
- Closing Incisions: The incisions are brought together to reshape the smaller breast using sutures, skin adhesives, or surgical tape.
6. Things to Know
- Breast reduction surgery can offer immediate relief from physical symptoms.
- Scarring is a trade-off for the benefits of the procedure, but scars generally fade over time and can be concealed beneath bras or swimsuits.
- Breast size and shape can continue to change due to aging, gravity, and hormonal factors.
7. Post-Operative Process
- Dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions, and an elastic bandage or support bra will minimize swelling and support the breasts.
- Small, thin tubes (drains) might be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid.
- Specific instructions will be given, including post-surgery care of the surgical site, medications to take or apply, potential signs of complications, and when to follow up with the surgeon.
- Most patients can return to work and light activities within a week or two, but strenuous physical activities should be avoided for several weeks.
As always, it’s essential to consult with a certified plastic surgeon to understand all the nuances of breast reduction surgery, its benefits, and potential risks.
FAQs
- Why do people opt for breast reduction surgery?
- Most patients seek relief from physical symptoms caused by the weight of their large breasts, such as back, neck, or shoulder pain, skin irritations, or limitations in physical activities.
- Will insurance cover my breast reduction surgery?
- Many insurance companies cover breast reduction surgery if it’s medically necessary. However, criteria may vary, so it’s essential to check with your specific insurance provider.
- What will the scars from the surgery look like?
- Scarring is inevitable, but their appearance can vary based on surgical technique. Commonly, they might be around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and sometimes along the breast crease, but they tend to fade over time.
- How long is the recovery process?
- Most patients return to light activities within a week or two, but full recovery and resuming strenuous activities can take several weeks.
- Can I breastfeed after a breast reduction?
- While many women can still breastfeed after the surgery, there’s no guarantee. The procedure might affect the ability to produce enough milk.
- Will I need to undergo a breast lift in addition to the reduction?
- A breast reduction usually includes lifting the breasts. However, for those primarily concerned with sagging rather than size, a breast lift alone might be more appropriate.
- How will my ability to sense touch change after the surgery?
- Temporary changes or loss of sensation in the nipples or breast skin is common post-surgery. While sensation typically returns over time, there’s a possibility it might be diminished permanently.
- How long do the results of breast reduction last?
- The results are long-lasting, but breasts can change due to aging, gravity, weight fluctuations, and hormonal factors.
- What are the risks associated with breast reduction surgery?
- As with any surgery, there are risks. These can include scarring, infection, anesthesia risks, bleeding, asymmetry, and complications with wound healing, among others.
- Can I undergo other procedures, like a tummy tuck, at the same time as breast reduction?
- It’s possible to combine procedures, but it depends on the individual’s health, the specific procedures, and the surgeon’s assessment.
Always consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to address any concerns or questions related to breast reduction surgery and to get personalized information.
