Breast Reduction (Mammoplasty)

Introduction

A breast reduction is a surgical procedure used to reduce the size of large breasts. It is carried out for aesthetic and psychological benefit, as well as to alleviate the physical effects on the body associated with excessively large breasts (macromastia).
 
Below we look at the questions that are posed to us most frequently during consultations.
 

Who is an ideal candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery? What are the benefits of this procedure?

Women with overly large breasts may be candidates for surgery as this procedure reduces breast size and remodels the shape. In certain cases, breast reduction is an effective treatment for reducing musculoskeletal pain in the neck, shoulders or back.
 

How common is this type of surgery?

Breast reduction surgery is not as widely known as breast augmentation surgery. However, it is still a standard procedure, and the results offer considerable physical, emotional and aesthetic benefits.
The surgeon meticulously measures the breasts and then makes accurate markings to define the incision lines for surgery.
 

What does Breast Reduction involve?

Breast reduction surgery is used to remove excess skin and tissue, reposition the nipple and re-contour the breasts to achieve better proportions and a more youthful, lifted appearance. Marking the skin is an essential part of the planning stage; it also provides an invaluable visual explanation for the patient.
 

Why and when do surgeons use pre-operative markings?

Marking the patient’s skin gives the surgeon a clear guide for incision placement. Additionally, it allows the patient to visualise the position and size of the scars, and the aesthetic results. The surgeon places accurate markings before anaesthesia, while the patient is in a standing position.
 

What about the scars following Breast Reduction?

The scars encircle the areola, and a vertical scar runs from the new nipple position to the breast crease. Occasionally, there may be a scar along the breast crease, known as an inverted T or anchor-shaped scar. Essentially, residual scarring depends on the incision pattern and the technique applied.
 

Are the scars noticeable?

There are no scars above the areola; therefore, underwear can easily conceal residual scarring.
 

Can the appearance of scars be improved?

In some cases, it is possible to improve the appearance of residual scarring to achieve better cosmetic results. Scar revision is carried out with non-surgical treatments, with a local anaesthetic. However, it is vital to establish that while the appearance of scars can be visibly improved, they are an unavoidable result of surgery and cannot be eliminated.
 

Do breasts lose sensation after Breast Reduction?

Modern techniques can usually preserve feeling and vitality around the nipple area. Occasionally, it may be necessary to remove and transplant the areola (free-nipple graft) in patients with excessively large, pendulous breasts (macromastia.) When applying this technique, the surgeon untethers the areola from its original blood and nerve supply, which can result in a loss of sensation at the areola/nipple.
 

What are the benefits of using implants in Breast Reduction Surgery?

Although it may seem ironic, using breast implants in breast reduction surgery achieves better cosmetic results in patients who want lifted breasts with more symmetrical volume. Small breast implants can be used to lift the breasts and increase fullness in the upper region.
 

Is it possible to breastfeed after Breast Reduction Surgery?

Breast reduction surgery may cause issues with breastfeeding. Generally, women who undergo this procedure should avoid breastfeeding during recovery as nursing causes the breasts to swell, compromising the results of surgery. Occasionally, breastfeeding after reduction surgery is not possible as a portion of glandular tissue is removed.

Please contact us for more information about Breast Reduction Surgery. Contact Us