What is Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) is a surgical procedure designed to decrease the size of the breasts. Excessively large breasts can cause physical discomfort, such as back, neck, and shoulder pain. Additionally, breast size can impact self-esteem and overall well-being. During the procedure, the surgeon removes excess fat, tissue, and skin to achieve a more comfortable breast size.

Regardless of gender, anyone can be a candidate for breast reduction surgery. Men with conditions like gynecomastia (abnormal breast enlargement in males) may also consider this procedure.

What Happens During a Breast Reduction Consultation?

Before undergoing breast reduction surgery, you will have a pre-surgery consultation. During this appointment, your surgeon will take a detailed medical history, including the medications you take, any allergies you may have, your smoking history, and past surgeries. They will also ask about pregnancy and breastfeeding history, mammograms, any personal or family history of breast issues, and any history of breast lumps or biopsies. It is crucial to be in good physical and mental health for this procedure.

It is essential to be completely honest during this consultation. This means being open about your medical history and clearly expressing why you want to undergo breast reduction surgery. Be prepared to discuss any emotional issues you have experienced, including how your breast size has affected you emotionally and physically.

Your surgeon will measure your breasts and may take photographs. They will discuss how much breast tissue needs to be removed to achieve your desired results. You will also learn how to prepare for the surgery and plan your recovery. The surgeon may perform a mammogram and breast examination to ensure you are ready for the procedure.

How Should I Prepare for Breast Reduction Surgery?

It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding any vitamins you should take before and after the surgery. Maintaining a balanced diet is also crucial for proper recovery. Nicotine (from smoking and other tobacco products) can hinder healing, so you should avoid tobacco products before and after the procedure.

Creating a Recovery Space at Home

Before the surgery, make sure you set up a comfortable recovery area at home. This should include:

• Pain-relieving medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol®).
• Gauze, clean cloths, and towels.
• Loose, comfortable t-shirts and blouses.
• Surgical bras.
• Antibiotic ointments (only if recommended by your doctor).
• A phone within reach of your primary resting area.
• Magazines, movies, or other forms of entertainment.

Recovery and Follow-Up Care

You will need to take at least one week off from work or school. Some people may require two weeks, but this varies by individual. Your surgeon will inform you about follow-up appointments to remove bandages and stitches. For at least one month after the surgery, you should avoid exercise and other strenuous physical activities. Surgery can be physically and emotionally challenging, so make sure to share any concerns with your doctor.

How Is Breast Reduction Surgery Performed?

Depending on your condition, breast reduction surgery may be performed at an outpatient facility or in a hospital, where you may need to stay for at least one night. In both cases, general anesthesia will be administered, meaning you will be asleep during the procedure. If you will not be staying overnight, ensure someone can drive you home and stay with you for at least the first night.

The surgery typically takes about three to five hours. Your surgeon will make an incision around your nipple and down your breast in a keyhole shape. Excess skin, tissue, and fat are removed, the nipple is repositioned, and the incisions are closed. Your surgeon may use drainage tubes if needed. Afterward, the incisions are sutured, and a dressing is applied. If necessary, your surgeon may recommend wearing a surgical bra to support your recovery.

What Are the Complications and Side Effects of Breast Reduction Surgery?

You should expect to feel tired and experience some breast pain. It is important to note that there will be scars along the incisions after breast reduction surgery. These scars are permanent but tend to fade over time. Additionally, depending on the extent of your procedure, breastfeeding may not be possible.

For the first few weeks, avoid lifting heavy objects to reduce tension on the incisions and minimize the risk of bleeding problems. You may also experience numbness or changes in sensation in your nipple, which can sometimes be permanent. Although rare, some individuals may experience complications like poor healing, which may require a skin graft.

Contact Your Doctor Immediately If You Experience:

• Fever.
• Unusual discharge from the incision site, including pus (this may indicate an infection).
• Premature opening or loosening of stitches.
• Swelling in one or both breasts accompanied by pain and pressure.