Breast Reduction

Women with large breasts often must put up with persistent pain and discomfort as well as discomfort with their appearance. Some women complain of neck strain, headaches, aching shoulders, low back pain, chronic infections under the breast fold, and other problems associated with large breasts. Whether you wish to alleviate those symptoms or reshape your breasts to make them more pleasing to you, breast reduction, also called reduction mammaplasty, can help. In fact, breast reduction surgery has one of the highest rates of satisfaction of all cosmetic surgery procedures. Many times, health insurance will cover this procedure if you meet certain criteria.

What to expect during a breast reduction

The procedure, which takes 3-4 hours, removes breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to create a breast size that is proportionate to your body, alleviating the symptoms that cause pain and discomfort. This is procedure generally requires an overnight stay. It is likely that you will be given general anesthesia to put you to sleep during the procedure.

Recovery from breast reduction surgery

Because it is a major procedure, you can expect recovery to take some time. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication for the days immediately following the procedure. Swelling and minor bruising are normal, and this will generally subside in a few weeks. For a day or two after the surgery, you will wear a special surgical bra or elastic bandage. You will probably need to continue wearing the bra or bandage or another type of support bra for several weeks.

Your plastic surgeon will advise you to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for several weeks. You will also probably need a week to two weeks off of work after the procedure.

Breast reduction scars are permanent and will look pink for several months before fading. Your cosmetic surgeon will make the incisions so that you can wear low-cut tops and swimsuits. Certain scar therapies such as laser work well and may benefit you. Consult with your cosmetic surgeon to determine which techniques are available to minimize scarring if this concerns you.