Breast Reduction

Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the size of breasts that are disproportionately large. The goal of the surgery is to achieve a more balanced and proportionate breast size, alleviate discomfort and health issues associated with large breasts, and improve overall quality of life.

Reasons for Breast Reduction

• Physical discomfort: Large breasts can cause back, neck, and shoulder pain due to the excessive weight.
• Cosmetic concerns: Women may feel self-conscious about the size of their breasts or experience difficulty finding clothing that fits properly.
• Health issues: Large breasts can lead to skin irritation, rashes, and fungal infections under the breast folds. They can also cause poor posture, which may lead to breathing difficulties and digestive problems.

Candidates for Breast Reduction

Women who are considering breast reduction surgery should be in good physical health, have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure, and be motivated by a desire to alleviate physical discomfort or improve their appearance. Ideal candidates typically:

• Are at least 18 years old.
• Have fully developed breasts.
• Experience physical symptoms such as back pain, neck pain, or skin irritation due to large breast size.
• Have difficulty participating in sports or other activities because of their breast size.

Surgical Techniques

There are several surgical techniques used for breast reduction, including:

• Vertical (or "lollipop") incision technique: This involves an incision around the areola and a vertical incision below it. The technique allows for shorter scars compared to traditional methods.
• Wise pattern (or "anchor") incision technique: This method includes an incision around the areola, a vertical incision below it, and a horizontal incision in the breast crease. It is often used for more significant reductions.
• Scarless (or "liposuction-only") breast reduction: This technique uses liposuction alone to reduce breast size. It's less invasive but may not be suitable for all patients, especially those requiring a significant reduction or those with sagging breasts.

Surgery and Recovery

Breast reduction surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. The procedure can take several hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the case and the surgical technique used.

Recovery from breast reduction surgery usually involves:

• Several days of rest at home.
• Pain management with prescribed medication.
• Wearing a supportive bra to minimize swelling and support the breasts during healing.
• Avoiding strenuous activities, including heavy lifting and bending, for several weeks.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, breast reduction carries potential risks and complications, including:

• Bleeding or hematoma.
• Infection.
• Scarring (permanent).
• Numbness or changes in nipple sensation.
• Asymmetry or uneven breast size.

Results and Long-Term Outcomes

The results of breast reduction surgery are usually long-lasting. However, future pregnancy, weight gain, or aging can affect the appearance of the breasts over time. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a stable weight and regular exercise, can help preserve the outcomes of the surgery.