Disproportionately large breasts can cause both physical and emotional distress for patients. Patients with large breasts may experience physical discomfort resulting from the weight of their breasts. The resulting pain in back, neck can make it challenging for some patients to perform common physical activities. Along with the physical ailments of large breasts, some patients may suffer from emotional distress or more significant mental health problems as a result of their large breasts.
WHAT IS BREAST REDUCTION?
Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a procedure to remove excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size more in proportion with your body and to alleviate the discomfort associated with excessively large breasts. It will not only correct the functional symptoms but also result in better proportioned breasts enhancing a woman's body image and self confidence.
WHO IS IT FOR?
Breast reduction surgery is meant for women who have large breasts and want to resolve issues such as:
- 1. Chronic back, neck and shoulder pain that requires pain medications
- 2. Chronic rash or skin irritation under the breasts
- 3. Nerve pain
- 4. Restricted activity
- 5. Poor self-image related to large breasts
- 6. Difficulty fitting into bras and clothing
- 7. Breast reduction surgery generally isn't recommended for women:
- 8. Smoke
- 9. Have certain conditions such as diabetes or heart problems
- 10. Are very obese
- 11. Want to avoid scars on breast
HOW IS IT PERFORMED?
Breast reduction is usually done under general anesthesia. The procedure consists of excising wedge of breast gland with the overlying skin. While doing this the nipple is preserved and translocated to a new higher position.
WHAT POSTOPERATIVE CARE IS REQUIRED?
Small thin tubes are placed for about 2-3 days to drain out any accumulated blood. Stitches are removed after 8-10 days. Medications are given. There may be swelling, discomfort, bruising initially.
A support bra is recommended for continuous use for about 6 weeks.
RISK AND COMPLICATIONS
As with any surgery, anesthesia complications can occur. There may hematoma formation, infection, poor healing. Some other specific risks include decreased sensations of nipples, partial or total necrosis of nipples. The ability to breastfeed is unpredictable.
RESULTS
The results of breast reduction surgery will be long-lasting. A breast reduction can make breasts smaller and firmer. The new breast size helps relieve the pain and physical limitations experienced prior to breast reduction. A better-proportioned figure will likely enhance self-image and boost self-confidence.
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