Breast Reduction
Surgery Overview
Breast reduction surgery (reduction mammoplasty) removes some of the tissue and skin from the breast to reshape and reduce the size of the breasts. It can also make the area of dark skin surrounding the nipple (areola) smaller.
To remove tissue and skin from the breast, typically the surgeon makes an incision around the areola that extends down to the crease where the breast meets the torso (called a vertical reduction incision). After the excess tissue and skin has been removed, the skin from both sides of the breast is pulled down and together. This technique raises the nipple and areola as well. However, sometimes the nipple and areola have to be removed and repositioned, which can cause a loss of sensation in the nipple, since it has to be cut off from the nerves supplying it. The incision is then closed with stitches. A vertical incision reduction may reduce the need for drainage tubes after surgery, decrease the length of your hospital stay, and also reduce scarring.
The technique used for a breast lift (mastopexy) is similar to that for a breast reduction, except that in most cases only skin is removed for a breast lift. A breast lift can raise sagging or drooping breasts, which is a common problem with large, heavy breasts, and can elevate the nipple and areola. To lift the breasts, excess skin from the bottom of the breast and the area around the areola is removed. The remaining skin is then brought together, which tightens and raises the breast.
Breast reduction surgery is done in a hospital using general anaesthesia. The surgery usually takes 2 to 4 hours. An overnight stay is usually required.
What To Expect After Surgery
You can usually resume your normal work and social activities within a couple of weeks, unless those activities involve heavy lifting or strenuous exercise. You may need to avoid more vigorous exercise and activities for 3 to 4 weeks or more. It's important to wear a bra that supports the breasts well, such as a sports or athletic bra.
You will have visible scars on your breasts after breast reduction surgery, although these are almost always in areas that can be covered by a bra or swimsuit. Scars may fade over time, but they will not disappear.
How Well Does It Works
Women who have breast reduction surgery are often extremely satisfied. It can make the breasts smaller, firmer, lighter, and more evenly proportioned. It usually relieves the physical discomfort and pain caused by large breasts.
We greatly value our customers and believe in offering informed, educated personal guidance every step of the way. Before you make the choice to undergo any treatment or solution, we invite you for an initial complimentary consultation in the luxurious privacy of the Mayfair Clinic. CLICK HERE TO BOOK A CONSULTATION
