BREAST REDUCTION (REDUCTION MAMMAPLASTY)
Breast reduction is a surgical procedure that reduces the size and reshapes the contour of large breasts by removing excess breast skin and underlying tissue. It may include reducing the size of the areola (the dark pink skin surrounding the nipple), which frequently becomes enlarged as breasts develop. The desired result is smaller, better shaped breasts that are in proportion with the rest of the body.
Breast reduction is often performed to ease physical discomfort such as difficulty in breathing, backache and irritation at the crease of the breasts and can make physical activity more comfortable. However, it can be purely aesthetic for women who are self-conscious about their breast size. The procedure is permanent, although breast size can increase due to weight gain, birth control pills or pregnancy.
Breast reduction can be performed at any age, but most plastic surgeons recommend waiting until breast development has stopped. Childbirth and breast feeding may have significant and unpredictable effects on the size and shape of your breasts. Nevertheless, many women decide to undergo breast reduction before having children and feel that they can address any subsequent changes later. If you plan to breast-feed in the future, you should discuss this with Dr. Beninger during the consultation.
You may be a good candidate for breast reduction if you have one or more of the following:
- Breasts that are too large in proportion to your body frame
- Heavy pendulous breasts with nipples and areolas that point downward
- One breast is much larger than the other
- Back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts
- Skin irritation beneath your breasts
- Indentations in your shoulders from tight bra straps
- Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of your breasts
- Dissatisfaction or self-consciousness about the largeness of your breasts.
In Canada, OHIP may be available for this type of procedure. A letter of predetermination may be required by OHIP prior to surgery, however this is best discussed with Dr. Beninger, or a staff member in the office.
Usually a general anesthetic is administered, so that you will be asleep throughout the procedure. When surgery is completed, you will be taken into a recovery area where you will continue to be closely monitored. Your breast will be wrapped in a gauze dressing or placed in a surgical bra. You may be instructed to wear a supportive bra for several weeks. Loss of breast or nipple sensation is possible , but usually not permanent.
After several days you will be able to move about more comfortably. Straining, bending and lifting must be avoided, however, since these activities might cause increased swelling or even bleeding. You may be instructed to sleep on your back to avoid pressure on your breasts.
Stitches are usually removed one week after surgery, and you should be able to return to work within two weeks.
Breast reduction often makes a dramatic change in your appearance. For this reason, it may take some time to adjust to your new body image. Most women, however, quickly become comfortable with their smaller breasts and feel very pleased with the results of surgery. In fact, the level of patient satisfaction resulting from breast reduction is among the highest of any plastic surgery procedure.
Dr. Beninger has extensive experience in performing these procedures explained on this site and is happy to answer your questions.
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