What is Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction or Reduction Mammaplasty is a major surgical procedure to reduce the breast size in cases of large and uncomfortable breasts often with degrees of medical complications such as neck pain, back pain and skin infections under the breast fold.

The Procedure:

The procedure itself will take around three to five hours depending on the complexity of the case and is performed in hospital. A general Anaesthetic is usually appropriate for this surgery

Post-op Recovery

For the first twenty-four hours you will have heavy dressings on your breast to reduce swelling after which time they will be removed. You may notice initially that your breasts appear quite high in position, this is normal and they will assume a more natural position as you heal.

Pain and discomfort vary depending on the individual but you can expect moderate to severe pain for the first few days after which the symptoms will improve. Most of our patients cope well with the assistance of pain medication. You will, however, require some help at home in the early stages and must avoid heavy lifting and straining for the first six weeks. Gentle exercise such as walking is encouraged.

What about scarring?

As with any operation of this nature, naturally there will be a degree of scarring, but every effort is made to minimize this. Scars tend to be pink to brown and slightly hard in the first few weeks but gradually become lighter in colour and acquire softness. Scars around the nipple are difficult to detect. The vertical scar us more easily seen but fades to a very light colour in time. The horizontal scar hides very well under the breast fold.

Breastfeeding

As the amount of tissue removed in this operation varies from one patient to another no guarantees can be made as to potential successful breastfeeding however there have been cases of women successfully lactating following this procedure.

Risks

Any surgical procedure is associated with risks but the incidence of these is very rare and will be explained in detail at time of your consultation.

Despite the small risks breast reduction, is a very safe procedure and has a high level of patient satisfaction.