General Anesthesia
3 Hours
1 Days
7 Days
7 Days
What is Breast Reduction?
Large breasts, depending on body structure, may create challenges in daily life. They can cause neck and back pain, rashes, excessive perspiration and odour around the chest area. Bra straps may dig into the shoulders, leaving deep marks. Larger breasts are more likely to sag, and engaging in sports becomes more difficult. Breast reduction surgery addresses these issues, offering not only physical relief but also increased self-confidence and comfort in social life. This procedure, often completed quickly, involves the removal of excess breast tissue in individuals whose breast size negatively impacts their daily functioning. The patient’s age and future breastfeeding plans are important factors influencing the surgical approach.
Who Can Receive Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction is generally recommended when breast size causes significant discomfort or impairs daily life. Common issues resolved by this surgery include neck and back pain caused by the weight and volume of the breasts, which may even lead to cervical hernia over time. Breast sagging accompanied by skin irritation and sweating is also alleviated post-surgery. In cases where the breasts are asymmetrical in size, reduction surgery can provide a more balanced appearance. Concerns about breastfeeding after the procedure are valid; in suitable candidates, techniques that preserve milk ducts may be applied, though a minor risk of reduced breastfeeding capacity remains. For this reason, it may be advisable to postpone the procedure until after pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The operation is conducted under general anaesthesia, which poses risks for individuals with conditions that might interfere with anaesthetic tolerance. Diseases such as diabetes, and habits like smoking that impair wound healing, may also affect the success of the operation. A full consultation with your surgeon will help determine the best course of action.
How is Breast Reduction Performed?
In cases of minor nipple sagging, a circular incision is made around the pigmented area surrounding the nipple. Excess tissue and skin are then removed, producing a lifted, smaller breast shape. In cases of more pronounced sagging, a vertical incision is made from the nipple to the lower breast. For those wishing to retain full breastfeeding function post-operation, alternative techniques involving the nipple may be used, although a small risk to breastfeeding remains. It may therefore be best to delay surgery until after pregnancy if future breastfeeding is planned.
The operation typically lasts between two and four hours, depending on the extent of the procedure. General anaesthesia is used, and patients usually remain in hospital overnight. Drains may be placed if necessary and are generally removed the following day prior to discharge.
Risks and Complications of Breast Reduction
Possible complications during and after surgery include bleeding, haematoma, delayed wound healing, and discharge from the incision site. It is vital for the patient’s blood levels to be within normal limits prior to surgery. Noticeable scarring may occur, often linked to underlying conditions such as diabetes or smoking. These scars can be treated post-operatively. As breast reduction involves removing all or part of the milk ducts, some impairment of breastfeeding may occur, though this can be reduced with appropriate techniques. Other issues such as infection, stitch irregularities, or wound dehiscence may arise, but early intervention typically prevents permanent problems. Patients should maintain hygiene and minimise movement after surgery. Any mild pain or stinging usually subsides within a few days and can be managed with medication. In rare cases, loss of the nipple may occur, particularly with large breast reductions. For such cases, less risky methods may be considered.
Breast Reduction Recovery and Longevity
An overnight stay is required following breast reduction surgery. If a drain is used, it is usually removed the following morning. It is advisable to refrain from showering for two days post-surgery. The patient is seen once in the first week and again in the second week for follow-up checks. Further appointments continue until healing is complete. A recovery period of five to seven days is typically sufficient before returning to work. Air travel should be avoided for at least one week. A return to strenuous exercise can be considered after approximately six weeks.
Breast reduction is considered a permanent procedure. However, considerable weight changes or pregnancy may cause sagging or shape changes. Despite this, regaining the original size is unlikely.
Things to Consider
Smoking must be stopped at least one week prior to surgery. Patients must fully disclose their medical history and current medications to their doctor. Blood-thinning drugs and foods should be discontinued under medical supervision. Fasting should be observed as instructed the day before surgery. At least one week of rest is recommended following the operation. All prescribed medications should be taken as directed. Follow-up appointments and dressing changes must be attended. Vigorous exercise should be avoided for one month. A medical or sports bra should be worn for three weeks following the operation.
