Breast reduction surgery is a procedure that eliminates neck, back, and lower back pain, as well as discomfort under the breasts, caused by extremely large breasts; it involves reducing both breast tissue and skin tissue to bring breast size into proportion with the body’s overall dimensions.
In addition to the physical and functional benefits it provides, breast reduction surgery also improves mobility, facilitates participation in sports activities, and boosts the individual’s self-confidence—with effects that become apparent immediately after the procedure. Since excess weight is removed from the body following the surgery, the individual’s posture, silhouette, and even gait change.
RESULTS THAT CAN BE ACHIEVED WITH BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY?
– Individuals who are physically healthy and whose breast development is complete,
– Patients who experience neck, back, and waist pain due to breast size, and who have dermatitis under the breasts that worsens especially during the summer months,
– Individuals whose physical and social activities are limited due to breast size,
BEFORE SURGERY:
Things you need to discuss with your plastic surgeon before surgery:
– Your medical history, allergies, and medications you are taking,
– Have you or anyone in your family been diagnosed with breast cancer? When was your most recent ultrasound or mammogram performed, and what were the results?
– Since part of the breast’s milk glands will be removed during breast surgery, you should be aware that, at best, there will be a decrease in milk supply during future breastfeeding periods.
Your plastic surgeon will assess your breast size before the surgery, take measurements and make markings, take photographs, and provide you with information about the surgery and the recovery process.
ABOUT THE SURGERY
In breast reduction surgery, skin is excised—primarily from the breast tissue—and the nipple is repositioned to the appropriate height. While the nature of the procedure means it leaves scars, these scars fade over time, depending on the individual’s skin characteristics. Because breast tissue is removed, this procedure also reduces the risk of breast cancer. (Tarone, Robert E.; Lipworth, Loren; Breast Reduction Surgery and Breast Cancer Risk: Does Reduction Mammaplasty Have a Role in Primary Prevention Strategies for Women at High Risk of Breast Cancer? Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 113(7):2104-2110, June 2004.)
POST-OPERATIVE CARE
Since breast reduction surgery is not a very painful procedure, there is generally no need for strong pain medication. After the surgery, a drain may need to be inserted to remove accumulated blood and fluid, and patients typically return to their normal lives within 10 days and can go swimming. It is advisable to wait a little longer before resuming exercise and sports. Wearing a bra for 3–4 weeks after surgery will reduce the sensation of heaviness caused by swollen breasts, providing the patient with relief.
The results of breast reduction surgery are long-lasting. However, to maintain the breast’s shape over time, it is often advisable to avoid periods of significant weight gain and loss. Aging, hormonal changes, and the effects of gravity can also cause changes in breast shape over time.
