Definition of Breast Reduction – Correction of Breast Hypertrophy – Megamastia
Breast reduction is the operation that reduces the size, and at the same time straightens the breast, improving its shape.
At what ages is Breast Reduction surgery performed?
This is an operation that is performed at all ages with satisfactory results. Large and heavy breasts create neck and back pain. In addition to aesthetic reasons, it is clear that health reasons often favor the reduction. It is a problem that greatly affects many older women who have gained weight in the breasts.
Breast Reduction Surgery Procedure – Breast Reduction Techniques
The patient enters the clinic on the day of the surgery, having fasted since the evening of the previous day.
The standard pre-operative check-up is carried out and then the surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. There are many different breast reduction techniques. Almost always the incisions – scars are the same, whatever technique the Plastic Surgeon chooses. The best results are obtained by techniques in which the nipple-areola complex maintains its blood supply from the upper part of the breast (Pitanguy technique, Lejour technique, etc.). These two techniques form firm breasts with excellent projection. The scar has the shape of an inverted T or is limited only to the vertical leg of the inverted T (Lejour). Breast reduction surgery has a duration proportional to the extent of the hypertrophy. It usually takes between 2 and 3.5 hours.
Recovery – Breast Reduction Recovery Time
Recovery is relatively short and painless.
After the surgery, it is recommended to stay for 1 day in the clinic. The patient must wear a pressure bra 24 hours a day for 2 to 3 weeks. The corset helps with internal healing.
The sutures are intradermal and absorbable. It is allowed to return to activities after one week, while gymnastics after a month. Additional Information – Breast Reduction FAQs. Breastfeeding is allowed and is not affected by the reduction surgery.
The results of breast reduction are permanent, provided you maintain a stable weight.
Nipple sensitivity either:
- Not affected,
- can be improved (there is better sensation due to improved breast appearance)
Side Effects – Complications of Breast Reduction
The most common side effects – complications of a breast reduction, according to the international literature, are hypoesthesia of the nipple (it is possible that hypoesthesia pre-exists) which depends more on the extent of the reduction, than on the surgical technique.
Also, healing disorders – inflammation may occur.
Results of Breast Reduction
The final result of the breast shape can be seen in the third trimester.
Then the chest comes and takes its final position. At first, most of the breast volume is at the upper pole, with the nipple ‘looking’ straight ahead.
Then the breast ‘descends’ and acquires its normal shape and projection with the nipple ‘looking’ upwards.
Scars mature in 6 – 12 months, and are hardly visible.
In any case, the scar is hidden inside the bra or swimsuit.
Cost – Price of Breast Reduction – Breast
The cost of breast reduction depends greatly on the extent of the reduction and the duration of the surgery.
In small breast reductions, the cost is considerably reduced.
Conclusion
Breast reduction is an operation whose success depends on achieving a nice shape and projection of the breast.
The Plastic Surgeon should have the relevant experience to give the breast the appropriate shape and projection.
Breast reduction is a very common operation in Plastic Surgery, and concerns women of any age who suffer from hypertrophic breasts (back pain, neck pain, headaches, difficulty in dressing, inflammation in the inframammary fold, etc.)