Breast Reduction Surgery Guide
Large, heavy breasts can cause back pain, shoulder pain, and difficulty with certain types of physical activity and exercise.
Women with excess breast tissue may also have a hard time finding clothes that fit well and feel self-conscious about their appearance.
If this sounds like you, then breast reduction surgery may be able to streamline your silhouette, alleviate back and shoulder strain, and increase your confidence.
To learn all about breast reduction surgery, read on.
What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery is an outpatient procedure designed to reduce breast size and volume.
It is often performed to enhance breast appearance, improve the fit of clothes, alleviate back and shoulder pain, increase quality of life, and boost self-esteem.
What Does The Procedure Involve?
Breast reduction surgery is conducted under general anesthesia and typically takes three-to-five hours.
During the procedure, incisions are made and excess breast tissue is removed to achieve desired breast size.
A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, may be combined with a breast reduction in order to elevate breasts and the nipple-areolar complex to a more perky and youthful position.
Following surgery, the patient is places in a surgical bra, featuring large straps and several clasps. This garment supports the breasts and also decreases strain on healing incisions.
How Long Is Recovery From Breast Reduction Surgery?
After breast reduction surgery, you will be instructed to wear your surgical bra for two weeks and a sports bra for an additional two-to-six weeks. You should avoid wearing an underwire bra as it can rub and irritate incisions.
Additionally, you may need to take a week or more off from work to rest and recover. In most cases, patients are able to resume normal activities in several days to two weeks.
Swelling will gradually resolve over the next six weeks, and final results are usually evident by three months.
When Can I Resume Exercise?
Patients should avoid strenuous physical activity and gym sessions for approximately two months or until they receive clearance from their plastic surgeon.
What Are The Possible Risks Of Breast Reduction Surgery?
In the hands of a qualified and experienced board-certified plastic surgeon, breast reduction surgery is considered a safe and effective procedure.
However, there are some possible risks to be aware of including: Bleeding, loss of sensation, asymmetry, and scarring.
Interested In Breast Reduction Surgery?
If you are considering breast reduction surgery, please call our office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Brent Birely.