Breast Reduction
Breast Reduction is performed to reduce the volume of excessively big breasts (gigantomasty). Frequently, large breasts hinder the patient’s daily activities and can cause severe back and neck pain. Breast Reduction surgery also uplifts the breasts and is performed under general anaesthesia, taking approximately 3 – 4 hours.
At the end of the surgery the patient has breasts which are reduced in volume, in an uplifted position, with a younger, more pert appearance, and with a better shape. The resulting scars will always be circular around the margin of the areola (nipple) and vertically down towards the natural fold beneath the breast. In the case of extremely large breasts, there will also be a short horizontal scar in the intra -mammary fold. The sensitivity of the nipple is maintained in the majority of cases and after the first week of rest at home, the patient can start to do light exercise and activities within the following 2 to 3 weeks. In general, the level of satisfaction in patients who have this surgery is very high, since the appearance of the overall body shape and improved quality of life of the patient is increased.
Doctor’s Recommendations
Breast Reduction also corrects a physical problem, since excess breast volume can cause discomfort such as back and neck pain. Large breasts can interfere with your daily activities and even cause psychological problems that can affect personal relationships. If you are a smoker it is imperative that you stop smoking 4 weeks before and 4 weeks after the operation since tobacco adversely affects healing. This procedure can only be performed when the chest has developed fully.
Results
The results of breast reduction surgery will be long-lasting. Your new breast size should help relieve you from the pain and physical limitations experienced prior to breast reduction. Your better proportioned figure will likely enhance your self image and boost your self-confidence.
Before & After Images
When can I return to normal life?
If the patient’s work does not require much lifting/upper body use, the patient can usually return to work after 1 week. If, on the other hand, it requires a strong physical effort then up to 2 weeks of relative rest would be necessary. The swelling will reduce in the following 4-6 weeks and after that time clients can resume sports activity.
How should I sleep after breast reduction?
Until the scars have sufficiently healed, usually after approximately 4 weeks, you must sleep lying on your back. During this time it is very important to sleep with a supportive bra.
Are there any specific risks to breast reduction surgery?
Although the rate of complication for this type of surgery is low, the most important associated risks that could occur are: poor healing, temporary or permanent loss of feeling in the nipple, small asymmetries and decreased ability to breast feed. Scarring problems may be more frequent in patients who smoke.