Breast Reduction: What Is It, | Risks, Results, Options and Cost

On the other hand, during this first visit, you will be asked about the breast size you want and any other modifications that you would like to see made in terms of the asymmetry of the breasts and the shape of the areolas.

In addition, the surgeon will explain the various techniques and combinations of existing procedures to perform the intervention, according to the needs of each patient. Likewise, the specialist will frankly explain the expectations of the surgery, as well as the possible complications and risks that it entails.

Remember to tell your doctor if you intend to have children in the future and breastfeed since this surgery can present complications during breastfeeding.

What should I take into account before surgery?

The specifies to take the following considerations before surgery :

• Avoid taking aspirin or other medications that contain salicylates, for two weeks before and after the intervention.
• Use soap a germicidal soap all over the body during the days before surgery, such as Lactacyd.
• Bring a suitable surgical bra (which the surgeon will order) to wear after the operation

It is important to note that most specialists recommend not smoking or consuming alcohol during the days before and after the intervention, to facilitate the healing and oxygenation process of the patient.

How is breast reduction surgery performed?

The specialists, explain that the breast reduction operation is usually performed under general anesthesia. The intervention usually lasts between 2 and 4 hours depending on the case of each patient.

To successfully meet patient expectations, various techniques can be used and combined. Depending on the volume of the breasts and the degree of flaccidity of the skin, remodeling techniques are performed using different types of scars. The reduction can be carried out with a periareolar and vertical scar, which goes from the areola to the submammary groove, or in cases of large volume or very flaccid breasts, it is necessary to make an incision in the shape of an anchor or inverted T.

Thanks to these incisions, the surgeon can remove excess fat, breast tissue, and skin. If the patient has a very excessive volume, liposuction may be used.

When the surgeon has already managed to remove excess breast tissue, skin, and fat, he relocates the areola and the nipple in a higher position.

After the operation, the surgeon leaves small drainage tubes in the sinuses to help prevent fluid build-up. In addition to putting gauze dressings that will cover your breasts, along with a surgical bra.

What is the main post-operative care?

The main post-operative care that patients who undergo breast reduction surgery must take into account, as explained by specialists from them are the following:

• You are discharged between 24 and 48 hours after surgery.
• Before discharge, the drains are removed.
• The adhesive bandage is removed and a surgical bra is put on that the patient must wear for 2 or 3 weeks, day and night to relieve the sensation of pressure.
• You should not do any type of physical activity during the first 4-5 weeks after surgery.
• The surgeon will prescribe antibiotics to avoid any type of infection and pain relievers to alleviate postoperative discomfort.
• Be very careful not to get the wounds and dressings wet until the stitches have been removed. After that, you can bathe regularly, but worry that the area of the operation is completely dry.
• The patient will not be able to sunbathe for a week after the operation.
• Driving for two weeks is not recommended.
• Avoid touching wounds to avoid infection.
• After week 5 the patient will be able to resume her normal routine.
• The use of cosmetic creams is recommended to improve the appearance of post-operative scars after the stitches have been removed and when the doctor indicates.

What are the main benefits and results of breast reduction surgery?

It th clear that many benefits that the patient will undergo surgery after breast reduction, among which are:

• Improvement in the firmness and appearance of the breasts.
• The patient experiences a great improvement in the symptoms of back, shoulder, and neck pain.
• The patient significantly improves her quality of life.
• Regain your self-esteem and confidence.
• Improves your physical and respiratory functional capacity.
• Improvement in anxiety and depression levels.

Postoperative Considerations

Must take into account the following considerations or secondary effects s :

• You can present several postoperative discomforts such as bruises or edema that will gradually decrease.
• Discomfort or pain in the breasts.
• A small increase in body temperature, which is considered normal.
• You may have back discomfort, or tingling in the arms or hands. This is considered a normal side effect.
• The stitches are removed progressively and according to the evolution of each patient.
• Specialists recommend postoperative lymphatic drainage to avoid edema or inflammation.

Results of breast reduction