Reduction mammoplasty is needed when overly large, sagging breasts cause concern due to their appearance and also interfere with normal function and physical activity by causing back pain, postural problems, skeletal deformities, rashes, breathing problems and low self-esteem.
What is a Breast Reduction Procedure?
Breast Reduction, or bilateral reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess skin, breast tissue and fat from the breasts. It also includes the repositioning of the nipple higher up on the breast, and sometimes a reduction in areola size (the different coloured skin surrounding the nipple). A breast lift is usually included in a breast reduction procedure to ensure that the newly reduced breasts are also reshaped and perked up.
Why Breast Reduction?
When excessive breast size and weight causes undesirable symptoms it is referred to as symptomatic hypermastia. A breast reduction procedure is designed to relieve symptoms of this condition, such as back pain, shoulder pain, breast pain, posture issues, movement restriction, and rashes (intertrigo).
Not only are physical ailments relieved by breast reduction almost immediately after surgery, there are also many psychological benefits to this procedure. Aesthetically, breasts are often brought into balance with the rest of the body’s proportions, and clothes can fit better. In terms of lifestyle, a breast reduction can help get women to become more physically active and reach their fitness or weight loss goals.
The Breast Reduction Procedure
The operation requires general anesthetic but can often be performed on an outpatient basis. Although Dr. McGill will make every effort to keep your scars as inconspicuous as possible, the incisions will ultimately leave permanent, noticeable scars in the lower portion of the breasts.
After surgery, the breasts may be wrapped in gauze or placed in a surgical bra. You will have to wear a supportive bra for several weeks to promote healing. Loss of sensation of the nipples and breast skin is rare and usually improves gradually. You should avoid excessive exercise and overhead lifting for several weeks after surgery.
Breast reduction is the plastic surgery procedure with the highest rate of satisfaction and quality of life improvement overall. In several studies, women have consistently reported that a breast reduction has significantly changed their lives for the better.
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After
Copyright © Dr Sandra McGill, MD Inc 2012