Breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) is a surgical procedure to reduce breast size and improve shape.
It involves reducing the amount of breast tissue while uplifting the remaining tissue at the same time. It can also eliminate some stretch marks and reduce the size of the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple). The procedure may be undertaken for cosmetic reasons and/or to relieve a variety of physical problems associated with large breasts. These range from back and neck pain and skin irritation to skeletal deformities and breathing problems. Breast reduction is not recommended for women who intend to breast-feed.
Following the procedure you will have a permanent scar. There are many different techniques and the position of the resulting scars may vary. There is always a circular scar around the nipple and a second scar on the lower half of the breast. The appropriate technique depends on a variety of factors including your breast composition and the reduction desired.
What are the risks?
Like all cosmetic procedures there are risks involved. There are general risks associated with surgery as well as risks specific to this procedure. Your surgeon will discuss these with you during your consultation. You should then reassess whether it is right for you. Scarring is the main problem. Initially these may be lumpy but they normally fade close to your natural skin colour over several months. These scars may be more noticeable (e.g. wider) if you smoke. Bleeding and infection are uncommon, but they can cause scars to widen. Other risks include unevenly positioned nipples (asymmetry), and the possibility of permanent loss of feeling in the nipples and/or the breasts. You may also be unable to breastfeed in the future. |
