Breast Reduction
(Mammaplasty)
Breast reduction surgery, technically called mammaplasty, is usually performed for physical relief rather than for cosmetic reasons. This procedure involves removal of excess breast tissue to reshape and lift the breasts.
Benefits of the surgery include increased comfort in your upper back, neck and shoulders; less shoulder pressure from bra straps; increased ability to exercise and participate in physical activities; and a more positive self-image. The surgery may also help you breathe and sleep easier. The surgery results in a high satisfaction rate among women, the surgeon removes fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the lower part of the breast. The nipple is then moved upwards and the tissues closed to form a smaller breast.
The surgery usually takes from two to three hours but can take longer. It is done under general anesthesia, so you will be asleep through the operation.
After having breast reduction, as with breast lift, you may lose feeling in your nipple or breast for at least six weeks. This loss of feeling usually subsides gradually as the swelling goes down after surgery. If the breast is especially large and hangs very low, the nipple and areola may have to be completely removed and re sewn onto the breast higher up, in which case the nipple and areola will permanently lose all feeling.
Breast reduction, like breast lift, leaves permanent scars. These can be lumpy and red for months following surgery, fading bit by bit until they are less noticeable. In a few cases, if only fat needs to be removed, liposuction can be used, which leaves small scars. The scars can, however, be hidden under a bathing suit.
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