2024-01-01 · breast, reduction, plastic-surgery
Breast Reduction Surgery FAQ
What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammaplasty, removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to make the breasts smaller and lighter. The procedure aims to reduce discomfort while creating a more balanced body contour.
Why Do People Consider Breast Reduction?
Common reasons include:
- Chronic neck, shoulder, or back pain
- Skin irritation or rashes beneath the breasts
- Grooves in shoulders from bra straps
- Difficulty exercising or finding clothing that fits
- Poor posture due to breast weight
A consultation helps confirm that surgery is the right option.
What Symptoms Improve After Surgery?
Many patients report improvements in:
- Upper body pain and muscle strain
- Skin irritation and chafing
- Physical activity tolerance
- Overall comfort and confidence
Relief is often noticeable as swelling subsides.
About the Breast Reduction Procedure
Breast reduction is typically performed under general anesthesia and lasts two to four hours. The surgeon removes excess tissue, reshapes the breast mound, and repositions the nipple-areola complex to a higher position. Incisions usually involve an areolar incision, a vertical line, and sometimes a line along the breast crease.
What Happens After Breast Reduction?
After surgery, patients wear a supportive surgical bra and may have temporary drains. Swelling and bruising are normal for the first few weeks. Follow-up visits monitor healing and ensure the incisions are recovering well.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Typical recovery milestones include:
- Light activity after several days
- Return to desk work within one to two weeks
- Avoiding heavy lifting and high-impact exercise for four to six weeks
- Final breast shape settling over several months
Adhering to post-operative instructions helps optimize results.
What Are the Potential Complications?
Possible risks include:
- Infection
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Scarring
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Delayed wound healing or asymmetry
Your surgeon will review ways to minimize these risks.
When Should I Seek Medical Attention?
Seek immediate care for severe swelling, fever, increasing redness, or drainage from incisions. Early evaluation can prevent more serious complications.