Why is Breast Reduction Surgery Done?
Breast reduction surgery helps in resolving issues including:
- Chronic shoulder, back and neck pain
- Irritation under the breasts
- Deep grooves caused by bra strap pressure
- Restricted physical activity
- Sleep difficulties
- Difficulty fitting into clothes
- Finding the right bra size
- Poor self-image
Breast reduction can be opted at any age. However, doctors advise waitinguntil the time breasts are fully developed. Furthermore, breast reduction surgery can also affect breastfeeding, so it should be put on hold if someone is planning to start a family.
Risks Associated with Breast Reduction Surgery
Unlike any other surgery, breast reduction also has a few risks associated with it. Possible risks of breast reduction surgery include:
- Loss of sensation in and around the nipples
- Difficulty in breastfeeding
- Difference in size of the breasts or irregular placement of the areolae
- Blood clot or infection
- Scarring
- Discolouration of the skin around the breasts
What to Expect
Before the Surgery
Before the surgery is conducted, the surgeon evaluates the patient’s medical history, discuss the breast size expectation and explains the benefits and risks involved. Furthermore, the patient is also asked to undergo a series of lab tests, a baseline mammogram, avoid aspirin, quit smoking and take any anti-inflammatory drugs.
During the Surgery
During a breast reduction surgery, the breast is cut open, excess fat and tissues are removed, and the skin is stitched back together. However, in certain cases, if the excess tissue is only fat, cutting the breast is not required, liposuction may also work. The four steps involved in a breast reduction surgery include:
- Anaesthesia
- Incision
- Removal and Repositioning of Tissue
After the Surgery
- Patients should expect a little pain for a few days after the surgery. However, the surgeon will prescribe pain relief medication
- The swelling and pain will subside in a few days, but the discomfort may stay for a little longer
- The breasts are usually covered with a bandage or a gauze dressing for proper recovery of the wound and to avoid infection
- The doctor advises avoiding indulging in any strenuous physical activities to avoid pressure on the breasts
- Because the breasts need to be protected, doctors advise wearing a supporting bra
Advantages of Breast Reduction Surgery
A successful breast reduction surgery can effectively relieve the patient from chronic neck, back and shoulder pain. The advantages of breast reduction surgery include:
- Allows active participation in physical sports
- Reduced shoulder, back and neck pain
- Better health
- Relief from skin irritation under the breast
- Better posture
- Reduces the pull caused by bra straps
- Increased self-confidence
- Better sleep
