Breast Reduction Surgery: Procedure, Recovery, Risks & More

Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty refers to the process that involves removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts which cater to reducing their size and improving their shape. The procedure is often performed to alleviate physical symptoms caused by large breasts, such as back and neck pain, skin irritation, and difficulty finding clothing that fits properly. It can also be performed for cosmetic reasons to help improve the appearance of the breasts and create a more proportionate figure. 

Things you need to know about breast reduction surgery

Here is everything you need to know about breast reduction surgery:

1. Candidates for breast reduction surgery

Breast reduction surgery is typically recommended for women who have large, heavy breasts that cause physical discomfort or embarrassment. It may also be recommended for women who have lost a significant amount of weight and the skin not shrinking back to the smaller size of the breasts.

Also read: 8 Possible Causes Of Unexplained Weight Gain

2. The procedure

Breast reduction surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia, which means you will be asleep during the procedure. The incisions are usually made around the areola (the dark area surrounding the nipple), down the front of the breast, and under the breast. Through these incisions, excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin are removed, and the remaining tissue is reshaped to create a smaller, more proportionate breast. The incisions are then closed with sutures.

3. Recovery

After breast reduction surgery, you will need to take some time off work to allow your body to heal. You will need to wear a special support bra or bandage to help support the breasts as they heal. You may also experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort for a few weeks after the surgery. Your healthcare provider will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your breasts during the recovery period.

4. Risks and complications

As with any surgery, breast reduction surgery carries some risks and complications, including bleeding, infection, scarring, and changes in sensation in the nipples or breasts. Your healthcare provider will discuss these risks with you before the surgery and provide you with steps you can take to minimise your risk of complications.

Also read: 8 Possible Causes Of Unexplained Weight Gain

5. Results

The results of breast reduction surgery are usually permanent, although the breasts may still change over time due to ageing, weight gain, or pregnancy. Most women are satisfied with the results of their breast reduction surgery and report a significant improvement in their physical comfort and self-esteem.

In conclusion, breast reduction surgery is a procedure that involves removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts to reduce their size and improve their shape. It is typically recommended for women who have large, heavy breasts that cause physical discomfort or embarrassment. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and involves making incisions around the areola, down the front of the breast, and under the breast. Recovery time is typically a few weeks, and the results are usually permanent. As with any surgery, breast reduction surgery carries some risks and complications, which your healthcare provider will discuss with you before the procedure.