For women with particularly large breasts (breast hypertrophy), certain problems can affect their quality of life. These women often choose breast reduction surgery to alleviate back and neck problems, skeletal deformities and skin irritations under the breast, generally resulting in limited physical activity and loss of self-confidence.
Breast reduction is a procedure designed to remove excess fat, glandular tissue and skin from the breasts, making them smaller, lighter and firmer. The procedure lasts between two and four hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Women with larger breasts often experience stretching of the areola. As a result, the size of the areola is often reduced during the procedure.
Candidates for breast reduction surgery include women with breast hypertrophy, or those who are troubled by the enormous appearance of their breasts, which limits their activities and causes them physical discomfort. Candidates also include women who wish to reduce their breasts for aesthetic reasons – surgery allows them to fit more easily into their clothes and give them a more proportionate overall appearance.
Women who are planning to become pregnant are not good candidates for breast reduction surgery because pregnancy can change the size of their breast, but breastfeeding is almost normal.
Breast reduction techniques vary. The most common involve an anchor-shaped incision surrounding the areola, extending downwards, and following the natural curve of the fold under the breast. Excess glandular tissue, fat and skin are removed. The nipple and areola are then moved into their proper position. In most cases, patients will need to wear a surgical bra for a few weeks after surgery, but will be able to return to work in about one to two weeks.
Breast reduction:
A woman undergoing breast reduction can breastfeed in an almost normal way afterwards.
The procedure requires at least two days’ hospitalization at the clinic.
Drainage is sometimes required at the end of the procedure.
Complication:
- Infection
- Hematoma
- Loose suture
- Unsightly scarring
- Breast asymmetry
- Temporary nipple insensitivity, which recovers after 6 months.
Breast reduction surgery is often performed in conjunction with other surgeries to help patients achieve their desired appearance. Many times, a breast lift is required to position the breasts higher on the chest. In some cases, liposuction around the armpits may be necessary to remove additional excess fat.
