What is breast reduction?
Breast reduction is a surgical procedure performed to reduce the size of the breasts. The operation is performed by a specialist in Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery and is performed under general anesthesia.
Why is it performed?
Breast reduction can be performed for aesthetic reasons, in women who feel that the size of their breasts is not proportionate or harmonious in their body. But in many women the objective is to obtain breasts that are more proportionate with the rest of their body because the excess weight causes neck and back pain.
What does the procedure consist of?
Depending on each patient, the plastic surgeon specialist will advise the most appropriate breast reduction technique, although normally the operation is performed through incisions around the areola to remove excess fat, skin and breast tissue, and adjust the entire breast to achieve the desired position and size. In this way, smaller and firmer breasts are achieved, reducing at the same time the problem of sagging breasts. Always in a breast reduction operation is used to perform a mastopexy and put the breast in place.
Preparation before the breast reduction operation
Before the operation, the patient must undergo a medical examination to certify that she can undergo surgery under general anesthesia. You should stop smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery, and you may also have to stop taking any medications.
Care after the operation
After the operation, the patient may have to stay in the hospital for at least one night. Recovery at home may last 1 to 2 weeks, after which the patient may gradually return to her routine. During recovery it is normal to feel pain in the breasts, so painkillers are usually administered. There may also be edema and even small bleedings. During the recovery time, the patient should avoid lifting, driving, exercise and sunbathing, and should sleep with her head and back elevated.