Written by Mr Sherif Wilson for Doctify
Breast augmentation seems to be a topic that is often discussed. Breast reduction, on the other hand, isn’t so talked of. So, what actually goes into having a breast reduction?
Plastic surgeon, Mr Sherif Wilson, is here to take us through the process from a surgical point of view.
Why do most people seek a breast reduction?
Many people seek the option of breast reduction surgery to change the size, weight and shape of their breasts. Other reasons for having this surgery include:
- Relief of pain – large breasts are often heavy, which can cause shoulder, upper back and neck pain, skin irritation, and posture problems. Because of the support required for large breasts, this could result in bra straps leaving indentations in a woman’s shoulders, which can become extremely painful over time.
- Improve quality of life – having large breasts may make it difficult to participate in certain physical activities and sports.
- Enhance physical appearance and improve self-confidence – having breasts that are not proportionate to your height and weight, can affect a person’s self-esteem.
Is there a non-surgical option?
Get a Proper Bra Fitting
A well fitting bra in the proper size can reduce back and neck pain, eliminate the painful shoulder ridges sometimes caused by large breasts and help you to look slimmer and better proportioned, according to the British Chiropractic Association.
Weight Loss
Weight loss can impact your breast size, and may result in the loss of up to one cup size.
What happens during breast reduction surgery?
The technique used to reduce the size of your breasts will be determined by your individual condition, breast composition, amount of reduction desired, your personal preferences and the surgeon’s advice.
The operation is usually done under General Anaesthetic.
Incision options
- A circular pattern around the areola
- A keyhole or racquet-shaped pattern with an incision around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease
- An inverted T or anchor-shaped incision pattern
After the incision is made, the nipple (which remains tethered to its original blood and nerve supply) is then repositioned. The underlying breast tissue is reduced, lifted and shaped.
The incisions are brought together to reshape the now smaller breast. Sutures are layered deep within the breast tissue to create and support the newly shaped breasts; sutures, skin adhesives and/or surgical tape close the skin.
What is the recovery time?
It can take two to six weeks to fully recover from breast reduction surgery. You may need to take a week or two off work and shouldn’t drive for at least a week. The final appearance of your breasts may not be obvious for several weeks or months after the operation.
Do you have any tips for aftercare?
Aftercare teams and packages may vary depending on where you are having your surgery completed; this area may require you to complete a lot of research just to ensure that you are receiving the best care package possible to you. It is important to consider:
- Unlimited check ups
- Access to nurses via telephone or appointment
- Revision surgery – free – where medically appropriate
- 24 hour emergency telephone lines
- Free access to specific medicine – antibiotics and pain relief where appropriate.
What are the benefits of breast reduction?
You’ll feel more comfortable. Large, heavy breasts can cause back and neck pain, skin irritation, and posture problems. Breast reduction surgery can eliminate these problems in most cases. It can also reduce the limitations that large, heavy breasts place on participation in sports or other activities.
Need more information? Find Mr Sherif Wilson’s treatments and procedures here.
