Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the size and weight of the breasts. Excessive breast volume not only affects body image, but can also cause a series of physical and emotional problems that have an impact on patients’ daily lives.
In spite of being one of the most performed plastic surgery procedures, it still generates many questions. Dr. Puertas, plastic surgeon at Paracelso Sagasta, resolves in the following article some of the most frequent doubts about breast reduction.
Who is a good candidate for breast reduction?
Generally, this operation is indicated for women who may suffer from medical complications derived from the size of their breasts (mammary hypertrophy or gigantomastia), such as back and neck pain, limitations when performing physical activities, breathing problems or even skeletal deformities (scoliosis, etc.).
However, it is also a surgery indicated for those women who, in spite of not having serious physical problems, consider that their breasts are an emotional burden and have a disproportionate size for their body.
Although it is not usual to perform this procedure in underage women, in some exceptional cases, if the size of the breast causes important physical problems, it could be considered an earlier intervention at an early age, assessing each case individually.
In any case, the best way to know if you are a candidate for breast reduction is to consult a plastic surgeon. He or she will evaluate your state of health, the size and shape of your breasts and, according to your expectations, will determine the optimal surgical procedure.
What does a breast reduction entails?
During a reduction mammoplasty excess fat, tissue and skin is removed from the breasts. In addition, a breast lift (mastopexy) or repositioning of the nipple-areola complex is performed, which is usually found in this type of patient in a very low position with respect to the ideal position.
The objective of this surgery is to achieve a size proportionate to the patient’s body and a more harmonious shape.
This surgery is performed under general anesthesia, lasts between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the case and the needs of each patient and usually requires an overnight hospital stay.
How is the postoperative period after a breast reduction?
The first 48 hours after surgery are usually the most uncomfortable, as the body needs to adapt to the surgery. It is common to feel pressure and discomfort in the chest area due to swelling, although these are relieved with medication and rest.
It is routine in all our interventions, the realization by the anesthesiology team of a series of anesthetic blocks of the nerves that pick up the sensitivity of the operated area, in this case, the breasts. In this way, the postoperative period becomes practically painless.
Our patients leave the operating room with a post-surgical bra, without the need for bandages for greater comfort. Drains are not always necessary. This compression bra must be worn for at least one month after surgery, which is crucial to ensure proper healing and guarantee the final shape of the breast.
Since each postoperative process is different, the plastic surgeon will carry out an individualized follow-up and give personalized instructions to ensure the quality of the result.
How long will it take to return to normal life after a reduction mammoplasty?
Recovery is usually relatively quick and comfortable. It is likely to be able to resume an almost normal activity in two weeks, at which time the wounds will be practically healed.
For the practice of sport and intense efforts, however, it is recommended to wait about a month.
The return to work will depend on the type of employment. For office jobs, a few days of rest will generally suffice. In more physical professions, it may take a few weeks before returning to normal duties. It should be noted that in cases where breast hypertrophy is a major physical problem, patients are entitled to medical leave.
Does the breast reduction operation leave a scar?
Breast reduction requires a series of scars to be made. The incisions required result in a scar around the areola and another scar in the shape of an inverted T or anchor. Although these marks are permanent, over time they tend to fade and become less visible, in most cases even imperceptible. In addition, due to their location, the scars are usually hidden when wearing a bikini or a conventional bra.
After one year of surgery, most of the scars have reached the stage of definitive maturation.
Will I be able to breastfeed if I get pregnant after the reduction?
There is a possibility that the ability to breastfeed may be affected after a breast reduction, as the procedure may involve the removal of some of the glandular tissue needed to produce milk. Although many women are able to breastfeed after a reduction, there is always a risk that this ability may be compromised.
At Paracelso Sagasta, we understand that each patient has unique needs and expectations when it comes to breast reduction. That is why we offer a personalized and professional approach to ensure the best results, both aesthetically and functionally. If you are considering this procedure, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Puertas, a specialist in Plastic Surgery at Paracelso Sagasta.
