Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty)

About the Procedure

Breast reduction can be done at any age for relief from physical symptoms caused by the excessive weight of large breasts. However, plastic surgeons recommend waiting after breast development has stopped. Patients who seek breast reduction surgery can improve the size and shape of their breasts, resulting in breasts that are more proportional to the body. For women who seek breast reduction surgery, the following conditions would need to be present:

• Back, neck or shoulder pain
• Breasts that are too disproportionate to the body frame
• Dissatisfaction or self-consciousness with body image
• Heavy breasts with nipples that point downward
• Indentations in shoulders from tight bra straps
• Breasts are asymmetrical
• Difficulty in performing physical activity
• Skin irritation underneath the breasts

What to Know Before the Procedure

Breast reduction usually involves three incisions: one around the areola, another vertically from under the areola to the crease under the breast, and a third which follows the natural curve of the breast. The surgeon removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin, and positions the nipple and areola higher. The areola is reduced in size. Skin above the nipple is pulled together to reshape the breast. Liposuction can be used to improve the contour under the arm. Usually, the nipples and areolas remain attached to the underlying tissue, thereby allowing sensation to be preserved.

What to Know After the Procedure

Breast reduction surgery is done on an in-patient or out-patient basis. Only a one-night stay would be needed if the situation requires it. A general anesthetic is used. After surgery, the patient is closely monitored in a recovery area. Small drain tubes remove the accumulation of fluids from the breasts. Gauze dressings are positioned on the incisions and covered with an elastic bandage, or in some cases, a surgical bra. The drains and dressings are removed a couple of days after surgery. Patients will wear a support bra for a few weeks, until the swelling and discoloration of their breasts diminishes.

Patients can return to work within just a couple of weeks, depending on the job. Normal activities, including mild exercise, can be resumed after several weeks. Sexual activity should be avoided for about a week and extremely gentle care of the breasts must be taken for 6 weeks.

If you Need to Travel Outside of your Local Hospital

A follow-up visit to the plastic surgery office is usually needed for breast reduction surgeries. These surgeries require constant care and progress evaluation. Periodic checkups, and in some cases, revision breast reconstruction surgery is needed, which is done with qualified cosmetic surgeons. It's important for the breast reduction surgeon to observe and discuss the long-term results of procedure with the patient. When choosing to have a breast reduction procedure done internationally be sure to talk to your surgeon about how they handle pre and post-operative care so that you can set proper expectations.