Breast Reduction Surgery (Reduction Mammaplasty)
What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
A breast reduction is an operation designed to make large breasts smaller, more pert and more in proportion with the rest of your body. The operation can also be performed to make each breast a similar size if one side is much larger than the other.
What does the surgery involve?
There are a number of techniques that can be used for breast reduction. The one selected depends in part upon the amount of breast tissue that has to be removed and the quality of the skin.
Incisions are made in order to sculpt the breasts into a smaller shape. The incisions may include one or more of the following:
- Around the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple)
- Vertically down from the areola to the breast crease
- Horizontally in the breast crease
Excess breast tissue and skin is removed and the entire breast is reshaped with the nipples moved to a higher and more youthful position. The incisions are stitched up in a way that reduces scarring to a minimum.
A breast reduction is usually performed under a general anaesthetic (you will be asleep during the procedure).
What are the risks and side effects of surgery?
Having cosmetic surgery can be a very positive experience. Complications are infrequent and usually minor. However, no surgery is without risk and it is important that you are given a clear picture as everyone varies in the risks they are willing to take. These possible problems will be fully discussed at your consultation.
What is the estimated time for recovery, absence from work and return to usual activities?
Providing all is well, you can expect to go home the day after surgery.
Recovery times vary from one person to another. Most people return to work by 2 weeks. It takes 6 to 12 months for the scars to soften and the breasts to settle to their final position.
For more information about this procedure visit:
The Body Bible's guide to Breast Reduction Surgery