Breast Reduction
Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, decreases breast size. It involves the removal of fat, tissue and skin from the breasts to bring them into proportion with the rest of the body. For women who are tired of enduring the discomfort of heavy breasts, reduction surgery can offer effective relief from back pain and many other issues.
The most common concerns of women requesting breast reductions are:
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Back, neck and shoulder discomfort or pain
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Poor posture
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Skin irritation
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Inability to exercise or play sport as a result of breast size
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Feeling self-consciousness, embarrassment or shy because of breast size
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Difficulty in buying clothing due to imbalance in body proportion
By correcting excessive breast weight, size and droopiness, the stress that large breasts place on the body is relieved following surgery. Better proportion can also be achieved while still preserving enough breast tissue to retain your femininity. This surgery has given many of our patients increased confidence and has improved their quality of life.
The Procedure
A breast reduction usually also involves a breast lift and does leave permanent scars in locations normally covered by a bra or bathing suit. The scarring becomes less obvious over a period of six to 12 months.
The Risks
Early sequelae of surgery include bleeding from the wounds, wound infection, wound breakdown, and blood or fluid accumulating under the skin that may require drainage. Later complications include asymmetry, loss of sensation in the breast and nipple, loss of nipple or areola tissue, issues with breastfeeding, and persistent lumps that take many months to resolve.
The Recovery
Recovery will vary from 3 to 6 weeks, and it is important to rest and follow wound care instructions and avoid heavy lifting and driving too soon after surgery.