About the Procedure

Breast reduction, also called reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure in which excess breast tissue and skin are removed and the breast is reshaped. The procedure is carried out under general anesthesia through an inverted T incision that runs around the nipple, down to the breast crease and underneath the breast. The nipple and the colored area around the nipples (the areola) usually remain attached to the underlying breast tissue. This best preserves sensation and the possibility of being able to breast-feed. The resulting breast is smaller, firmer, and more proportional. It can often relieve symptoms of back and neck ache.

Recovery and Healing

You will have general anesthesia and probably have to stay in the hospital overnight after you have breast reduction surgery. Because the surgery is extensive, you will likely wear a support bra and skin tapes may be used to support your skin. It's important not to lift your arms above your head, not lifting heavy objects for several days, and not to drive until your doctor gives the go-ahead. It will probably be a few weeks before you can return to work.

Risks

As with any surgical procedure, the general risks include, bleeding, infection, and anesthesia complication. Rarely will a blood transfusion be necessary and if that seems to be a possibility your surgeon may request that you give a bottle of blood several weeks prior to surgery that can serve as an auto transfusion. Your breasts were not completely symmetrical prior to surgery and it is likely that this will be the case after the procedure is completed. There may be decreased sensation of the breast and the nipple as well as potential problems in healing. There will be permanent scars from the procedure that at first will be red, but should dissipate over time. There will probably be some moderate discomfort after surgery, but this is not a painful procedure.

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