| Introduction- |
| women
with large heavy breast may experience several health concerns related
to this problem including, back and neck pain, breast pain and rashes
under the breast. The added weight of large breasts may exacerbate the
symptoms for women with arthritis or spinal problems. Some women are
bothered by the psychological embarrassment of large breast, finding it
uncomfortable to engage in physical activity or experiencing difficulty
in finding clothes that fit. |
| |
 |
In
the long term, large breasts can lead to increased sagging(ptosis) and
as a result of this many women present with a combination of large
breasts and ptosis. Women who are very self conscious of the ir large
breasts, tend to develop a slouch in their posture, droop in their
shoulders and chronic backache. Bra straps tend to dig into their
shoulders causing deep indentation. If you have any of these symptoms,
breast reduction surgery may be right for you. Breast reduction surgery
removes excess fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast in
proportion to your body and reduce the discomfort associated with large
breasts. |
|
| It
will not only correct the functional symptoms but also result in better
proportioned breasts, enhancing a woman's body image and self
confidence. It is recognised world wide that women who have had breast
reduction are some of the most satisfied and grateful patients.. |
| |
| Breast reduction procedure- |
| Breast
reduction is usually done under general anesthesia. There are many ways
to do a breast reduction. The procedure essentially consists of
excising a wedge of breast gland with the overlying skin. While doing
so the nipple is preserved on a bridge of tissue which provides it with
blood supply and then translocated to a new higher position. The breast
and skin is closed, giving it a smaller and much nicer shape. The final
scar will be around the areola and extend vertically down to the
inframammary fold in the vertical scar technique of breast reduction.
There will be an additional transverse scar in the inframammary fold,
if the keyhole pattern (inferior pedicle technique) is used. Your
surgeon at “Aesthetics” will be able to guide you about the most
suitable technique for you. |
 |
| Post operative period |
| Small
thin tubes are usually placed after major reductions to drain out any
accumulated blood. These drains take about 2 - 5 days to stop draining
and are removed once they have stopped draining. You may be discharged
home after drains have been removed. The post operative discomfort can
be managed quite satisfactorily by regular medication with oral pain
killers. You will find that you can discontinue these a week after
surgery. |
| |
| What to expect? |
Breast
reduction is a refined surgical procedure and is done quite routinely.
Like any surgical procedures there are potential risks and
complications that your surgeon at Aesthetics will explain in detail.
Some of the potential risks include.
- Accumulation of blood (hematoma),
- Infection.
- Poor healing at the site of suturing.
These risks are common to many operations. Some risks are specific such as
- Decreased sensation at the nipple.
- Decreased
blood supply at the nipple, which may lead to partial or total necrosis
of the nipple. This may need secondary reconstruction. Although this is
very rare, the risks are increased in smokers and diabetics and hence,
women are advised to stop smoking at least two weeks prior to surgery.
- The
ability to breast feed after reduction is unpredictable and depends on
the extent of reduction and type of technique used. This is best
discussed with your surgeon.
The incidence of these risks range from 5 - 10 percent and your surgeon will explain the treatment if they occur. |
| |
| Progress and healing- |
Initial
healing will include swelling and discomfort at the incision sites. A
support bra will be recommended for continuos wear for first six weeks.
The bruising will take up to 3 weeks to disappear. the swelling may
take up to 6 weeks to disappear. The breast shape goes on improving up
to 6 months. A return to light activity is possible as soon as you feel
ready, usually within 10 days following surgery. All stitches are
usually absorbable and will not need removing. You will be advised not
to exercise for 6 weeks after surgery, and after that period, you must
wear a sports bra while exercising.
Healing will continue for
several weeks as swelling dissipates and breast shape and position
settle. Scars are initially red and visible for first 6 months but
rapidly become soft, supple and fade after that. |
| |
| Your new figure - |
 |
A
breast reduction can make dramatic change in your appearance and your
outlook. A breast reduction can make your breasts smaller and firmer.
Many patients find a new enjoyment in sports, exercise, dancing or even
walking. |
|