Breast Reduction

Breast reduction, for most women, is a life changing operation. Not only does breast reduction have visible cosmetic benefits, it can also provide relief from a variety of medical problems caused by the weight and mass of the breasts. Reducing large, pendulous breasts improves a patient’s appearance, health, activity level, confidence, self-esteem and more.

Breast reduction candidates generally are bothered by their breasts for cosmetic reasons or are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms. Some of these symptoms include back, neck or shoulder painö skin irritation or rashes, breathing problems and shoulder indentations from bra straps. Candidates may feel their activity level is restricted because of oversized breasts, and they may suffer mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression, because of the way their breasts look. Conservative treatment including physical therapy and weight loss should be attempted first. To qualify for surgery, you should understand and accept the possible risks of surgery and have reasonable expectations of the outcomes. You will have smaller, more comfortable breasts but they will have scars.

Pre-Surgery

The first step to pursuing breast reduction surgery is to schedule an online consultation to discuss your options. During the consultation we will review your current breasts and we will explain the surgical procedure in detail and describe how we can improve your breast size and position. We will also discuss the possible risks of surgery (including infection, bleeding and loss of sensation in the nipples/breasts) so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.

About the Procedure

Breast reduction surgery is performed at a private hospital. Anesthesia is used during surgery,so you won’t feel anything.

The surgical incision pattern can vary depending on the specific case, but most breast reduction operations are performed through an anchor-shaped incision that circles the areola, extends downward and horizontally across the natural curve of the breast. Through the incision, excess glandular tissue, fat and skin is removed. The skin above the breast is brought down and around the areola to give the breast its new contour. The size of the areola is reduced and the position of the nipple and areola is raised on the breast. The incisions are then closed with sutures and the breasts are bandaged.

The breasts will be swollen, bruised, sore or tender during the initial recovery period. A compression garment will help to control swelling and expedite recovery. Initially, strenuous activity and heavy lifting is forbidden. You should focus on resting and relaxing for the first few weeks after surgery.

Your medical consultant will give you a detailed timeline for resuming work, exercise and other normal activities. Most patients resume desk jobs about one or two weeks after surgery, and slowly build up their activity level according to the doctor’s guidelines.

The scars from the surgical incision should fade significantly over time. They will not disappear completely, but they can be easily concealed in a bra or bathing suit top.

Changes should be visible shortly after the breast reduction procedure, but post-operative swelling may prevent you from seeing the end result for some time. Although the swelling will slowly decrease over the weeks after your surgery, it can take up to six months for the full results to be seen. Once the swelling has settled, you’ll be able to see the final results.

You should expect some degree of scarring, but the extent of this will depend on where the incisions were made and the type of procedure. The position of any scars generally ensures that they are hidden when you are wearing clothes and after twelve months the scarring should fade significantly. Some of the scars will be concealed along the crease of the breast, but parts of the scar will remain visible.