BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY (REDUCTION MAMMOPLASTY) |
Surgery to reduce the size of large breastsThere are a variety of medical problems which can be related to large breasts including neck and back pain, breathing problems, skin irritation, skeletal deformities, shoulder indentations left by bra straps, and poor posture. Large or heavy breasts may make it difficult for a woman to take part in normal daily activities like exercise and they may erode her sense of attractiveness and self-confidence. What is breast reduction surgery?Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure, which can improve health problems and/or self-consciousness related to very large, heavy breasts. The procedure provides women with smaller, better-shaped breasts and a more attractive contour that is more proportionate to the rest of the body. Health problems associated with large breasts are relieved and the self-image is improved. How is it done?Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue and fat and sculpts the breast into a lighter, smaller shape. Incisions are made around the areola, vertically down from the areola to the breast crease and/or horizontally at the breast crease. Type and location of the incisions are discussed at consultation and are dependent upon anatomy. Excess fat, skin and tissue are removed through these incisions and the nipple is repositioned to match the new breast shape. The wounds are closed with multiple layers of stitches and although the nipple is relocated, it remains attached to the blood vessels and nerves so sensation is unaffected. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSWhat happens during a consultation for breast reduction surgery?During a consultation for breast reduction surgery, Dr. Bezic will evaluate your medical history and discuss all details of the procedure. You will be given an opportunity to view before and after photographs of our previous breast reduction surgery patients. Preoperative instructions will be given to you once you decide to go ahead with the breast reduction surgery. Where is the breast reduction procedure performed?Breast reduction surgery may be performed in an outpatient surgery centre or hospital. What form of anesthesia is the breast reduction procedure performed with?General anesthesia is most often used for the breast reduction surgery. How is the breast reduction surgery performed?For breast reduction surgery, incisions are made around the areola and extending in a vertical line below the nipple and horizontally in the fold beneath the breast. The nipple-areolar complex is moved to a higher position and excess fat, tissue and skin are removed. If necessary, the areola can be reduced in size as well. The incisions are then closed and covered with a light dressing and a surgical bra is worn. Liposuction of the axillary area may also be used to reduce excess fat deposits and further enhance the results. How long is the surgery for breast reduction?Breast reduction surgery can take anywhere from two to four hours on average to complete. Where are the incisions made for breast reduction surgery?The incisions for breast reduction are made around the areola, extending vertically below the nipple, and sometimes running horizontally in the fold beneath the breast. Will breast reduction surgery leave scars?The incision made for breast reduction surgery will result in some permanent scarring, though every attempt is made to make the resulting scar as inconspicuous as possible. The scars will appear red and lumpy for the first few months after surgery but they will fade and become less noticeable within six to eighteen months. Bras and bathing suit can usually conceal the scars. Smokers are more likely to develop poor healing and wide scars. Will I experience much pain after my breast reduction surgery?Patients may experience some initial discomfort, which can be controlled with medication and will subside daily. What can I expect of the recovery after breast reduction surgery?Patients can expect some bruising and swelling after breast reduction surgery which will fade within a few weeks. A surgical bra will need to be worn during the initial healing phase. The breasts may appear slightly mismatched or you may have unevenly positioned nipples. The new shape of the breasts will be apparent within six months to a year. The ability to breast-feed may be reduced after surgery. When can I return to work after undergoing breast reduction surgery?Patients should plan on being out of work for about two weeks after the breast reduction surgery. When can I exercise after undergoing breast reduction surgery?Patients will need to postpone strenuous activities for about two to four weeks after the breast reduction surgery. |