Breast Reduction

A breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the size and volume of the breasts. This procedure is primarily performed to address physical discomfort, pain, and psychological distress that can arise due to overly large breasts. Women with excessively large breasts often experience a range of issues, including back, neck, and shoulder pain, skin irritation, difficulty finding properly fitting clothing, and limitations in physical activities.

What are the benefits of breast reduction?

Bilateral breast reduction (BBR) can be a transformative operation for women with large breasts with significant functional benefits. 

Women undergoing BBR often suffer with neck/back pain, reduced exercise performance, skin irritation under the breasts (particularly in hot weather) and discomfort caused by wearing bras for prolonged periods. 

BBR surgery aims to lighten the breast by removing breast tissue from the lower parts of the breast. At the same time, the nipple is moved upwards into a more youthful position as the breast is shaped. This involves using an anchor-shaped scar around the nipple that extends down to underneath the breast. 

Women undergoing BBR often have an extremely positive experience with surgery and high overall satisfaction.

Pain Relief:

Large breasts can lead to chronic pain and discomfort, particularly in the back, neck, and shoulders due to the added weight. Breast reduction surgery can significantly alleviate these physical symptoms, improving overall comfort and quality of life.

 

Enhanced Physical Activity:

Women with large breasts often find certain physical activities and exercises difficult or uncomfortable. Breast reduction can make it easier to engage in sports, workouts, and other activities, promoting a healthier and more active lifestyle.

Improved Posture:

The weight of overly large breasts can cause poor posture and spinal alignment. By reducing breast size, the strain on the back and neck is decreased, allowing for improved posture and reduced associated discomfort.

Reduced Skin Irritation:

Skin irritation, rashes, and chafing underneath the breasts can be common issues for individuals with large breasts. Breast reduction helps alleviate these problems by reducing skin-to-skin friction.

Improved health

In addition to improving the appearance of the body, liposuction can also have health benefits. Excess fat can put a strain on the body and increase the risk of health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. By removing excess fat, liposuction can help reduce these risks and improve overall health.

Other Benefits

Easier Clothing Shopping:

Finding well-fitting clothing can be a challenge for women with large breasts. After breast reduction, individuals often find it easier to shop for clothes that fit comfortably and flatter their body shape.

Enhanced Body Proportions:

Breast reduction brings the breasts into better proportion with the rest of the body, creating a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing silhouette.

Increased Self-Confidence:

Many women with large breasts experience self-consciousness and reduced self-esteem due to their appearance. Breast reduction can lead to a boost in self-confidence and body image, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable and attractive.

Freedom from Brassiere Struggles:

Bras that offer sufficient support and fit well can be difficult to find for women with larger breasts. After a breast reduction, patients may find it easier to wear a wider range of bras, including those that are more stylish and comfortable.

Alleviation of Emotional Distress:

Large breasts can cause emotional distress and feelings of self-consciousness, particularly when they draw unwanted attention. Breast reduction can help individuals feel more at ease in social situations and improve their emotional well-being.

Long-Term Benefits:

The results of breast reduction are generally long-lasting, provided that patients maintain a stable weight and follow their surgeon’s post-operative instructions.

Breast Reduction Surgery

It’s important to note that breast reduction is a surgical procedure that involves certain risks and considerations. Individuals considering breast reduction should consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to discuss their goals, medical history, and any concerns they may have. The surgeon will assess whether the procedure is appropriate for the individual’s unique circumstances and provide guidance on the expected outcomes and recovery process.

Anaesthetic

General anaesthetic

Surgery Time

2-3 Hours

J

Drains

No

Recovery garments

Bra

Hospital stay

1 night

Follow-up

1 week and 2 weeks after discharge

Return to desk-based work

1 weeks

Return to driving

2-4 weeks

Return to sport

6-8 weeks

Breast Reduction Consultation

Before the surgery, you will have a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, you’ll discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have. The surgeon will examine your breasts, take measurements, and determine the most appropriate technique for your specific needs.

Abdominoplasty tummy tuck

Breast Reduction Surgery

​​The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves several key steps:

Anaesthesia:

On the day of the surgery, you’ll be administered general anesthesia to ensure that you’re comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.

Incision Placement:

There are different techniques for performing breast reduction, and the choice of technique depends on factors such as the amount of tissue to be removed and the desired outcome. Common incision patterns include:

Anchor Incision (Inverted T): This incision is made around the areola, vertically down the front of the breast, and along the natural crease underneath the breast.

 

Lollipop Incision (Vertical): This incision is made around the areola and vertically down the front of the breast.

 

Donut Incision (Circumareolar): This incision is made in a circular pattern around the areola.

Tissue removal:

Through the incisions, the surgeon removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. The remaining breast tissue is then reshaped and repositioned to create a more youthful and natural appearance.

Closing incisions:

Once we’ve removed the desired amount of fat, we will close the incisions using sutures or adhesive strips. Depending on the size of the incisions, we may cover them with a dressing or bandage.

Areola Repositioning and Resizing:

If necessary, the areola (the darker pigmented area around the nipple) may be repositioned higher on the breast to match the new breast contour. It can also be resized if needed.

Closing Incisions:

After the necessary adjustments are made, the incisions are meticulously closed using sutures. In some cases, the surgeon may use absorbable sutures, which don’t need to be removed later.

Drain Placement (if needed):

 Some surgeons may place small drains in the incision sites to help remove excess fluid and reduce the risk of complications. These drains are typically removed after a few days.

Dressing and Bandages:

Once the incisions are closed, the surgical area is covered with dressings or bandages to protect the incisions and support the healing process.

Recovery:

After the surgery, you’ll be monitored as you wake up from anesthesia. You’ll need to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions for proper wound care, activity restrictions, and pain management.

The exact details of the surgery may vary based on the individual’s anatomy, goals, and the surgeon’s approach. As with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications, which your surgeon will discuss with you during your consultation.

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