Breast reduction is a surgical procedure designed to alleviate physical discomfort and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals with disproportionately large breasts. The surgery involves the removal of excess skin and tissue, followed by reshaping and lifting to achieve a more proportionate and comfortable bust size. Beyond the physical benefits, women often report increased confidence, improved comfort in their bodies, and relief from issues such as back pain and skin irritation.

Is it right for me?

Breast reduction surgery is a highly individualized procedure and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else’s desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image.

A breast reduction is a good option for you if:

• Discomfort with the perception of excessively large breasts.
• Difficulty engaging in physical activities due to breast size.
• Enduring back, neck, and shoulder pain attributed to breast weight.
• Experiencing shoulder indentations from bra straps or skin irritation beneath the breast crease.
• Overall health without life-threatening illnesses or conditions impeding healing.
• Non-smokers and non-vapers.
• Individuals possessing a positive outlook with clear goals for breast reduction.

Ensuring these criteria align with your individual circumstances will help determine if breast reduction exchange is the right choice for you.

Your consultation is your time to ask the doctor about the procedure you’re considering, how he thinks it will work for you and any concerns you may have.

Questions to Consider:

• What is the simplest and safest surgery to help me achieve my goals?
• Are other options available?
• What results can I expect, and how long do the typical results last?
• Where will scars be located, and how noticeable will they be?
• Will scars fade over time, and how long will this take?

Your surgeon will:

• Discuss previous surgeries.
• Assess your overall health, considering any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors.
• Thoroughly examine and measure your breasts, considering size, shape, skin quality, and the placement of nipples and areolas.
• Capture photos for reference.
• Discuss about your options.
• Provide recommendations for a tailored course of treatment.
• Discuss potential outcomes, risks, and any complications associated with breast augmentation.

After your consultation with the physician, you will meet with the practice manager to discuss procedure costs.

The effectiveness and safety of your breast reduction hinge on your open and honest communication during the consultation. Expect questions about your health, goals, and lifestyle, and feel free to openly express any emotions, whether it’s excitement or preoperative stress. Your plastic surgeon is here to address your concerns and ensure you feel confident and comfortable throughout the process.

There are several things to do prior to your procedure that will make your recovery as smooth as possible and ease your pre-procedure anxiety.

Your Pre-Op Checklist:

• Make sure you have arranged for someone to drive you to surgery and stay with you for a few nights.
• Consult with your surgeon and adhere to their instructions.
• Take prescribed medications or modify current medication as directed.
• Complete necessary lab tests within 30 days of your procedure.
• Cease smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use.
• Refrain from taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements to mitigate potential bleeding.

Day of Surgery:

• Be on time for your scheduled surgery appointment.
• Bring a companion aged 18 or older.
• Refrain from eating or drinking after midnight prior to your surgery.
• Use antibacterial soap for a thorough body wash before the procedure.
• Opt for loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and remove on the day of your surgery.

Above all, adhering to your surgeon’s pre-surgery recommendations is key to a successful and swift recovery.

Anesthesia:

Receive medications for comfort during surgery, with options like intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Your doctor will guide you toward the most suitable choice for your situation.

The Incision: 

The incision type for breast implant revision varies based on the procedures involved. Options may include, but are not limited to:

• Lollipop Incision – a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision from the areola to the breast crease, ideal for moderate breast reduction.
• Keyhole Incision – circular incision solely around the areola, suitable for mild to moderate breast reduction.

Tissue Repositioning:

After incision, the nipple is repositioned, the areola will be adjusted if necessary, and reduction of underlying breast tissue for lift and shaping. In extreme cases, a free nipple graft may be done, involving complete removal and repositioning, leading to potential sensation loss and extended healing.

Recovery durations after Breast Reduction vary for each patient (days to months).

Following your breast reduction procedure, dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions. To minimize swelling and provide support during the healing process, an elastic bandage or support bra is recommended.

In some cases a temporary, thin tube may be placed to drain excess blood or fluid.

You will receive detailed instructions covering:

• Proper care for your breasts post-surgery
• Medications for healing and infection prevention
• Specific signs to monitor at the surgical site and for overall health
• Follow-up schedule with your plastic surgeon

Ensure you address specific queries about your individual recovery:

• Post-surgery destination
• Prescribed medications
• Duration of dressings/bandages and removal timeline.
• Are the stitches scheduled for removal, and if so, when is the expected timeframe?
• When can I safely resume normal activities and exercise?
• What is the recommended timing for my follow-up care appointment?

Your plastic surgeon and/or their team will provide detailed explanations of surgery-associated

risks. Consent forms will be signed to ensure your full comprehension of the procedure and potential complications.

Some Risks Involved:

• Unfavorable scarring
•  Bleeding (hematoma)
•  Infection
•  Incision healing challenges
•  Changes in nipple or breast sensation (may be temporary or long-lasting)
• Capsular contracture (formation of scar tissue around the implant)