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Breast Reduction
Before The Breast Reduction Operation
Introduction to Breast Reduction
Large breasts can be a source of major embarrassment. As well as the difficulty of finding clothes that fit and look elegant, they tend to interfere with active sports. Sometimes they also cause backache and their weight makes bra straps dig in over the shoulders. Large breasts can also cause skin problems in the crease below each breast. With the passage of time large breasts will hang lower and lower and the skin can become covered in stretch marks.
The aim of breast reduction is to reduce the over-sized breasts to a B or C bra cup size by the precise removal of breast tissue. A new ‘skin bra’ is fashioned which leaves the nipples at an elevated position as well as creating smaller, more youthful looking breasts.
Am I Suitable For Breast Reduction Surgery?
If very large breasts are simply an expression of generalised obesity then simple loss of weight, or obesity surgery might be a better treatment.
Large breasts are usually considered very fashionable as well as desirable by both sexes. Many regard it as the ultimate sign of femininity. However there comes a point where the breasts are of a size which becomes a liability to the woman.
Factors to Consider Before Breast Reduction Surgery
Breast reduction is a major operation. Several different techniques are used but they all cause quite significant scarring. The most common method adopted leaves a scar that runs around the edge of the areola and one in the crease underneath the breast with a midline vertical scar linking the two.
Scars can stretch on occasions and be very noticeable so it is important that you take this into consideration, particularly if you are planning on having more children. Pregnancy should be avoided for some years after a breast reduction operation to prevent the scars from stretching. It must be stressed that you may be able to breast feed after a breast reduction but this is not possible in most cases. We therefore recommend that the breast reduction operation should only really be considered once your family is complete.
You will need to take at least two weeks off work after a breast reduction operation.
The Breast Reduction Consultation
At the preoperative consultation for breast reduction you will be asked to complete a medical questionnaire before you see the surgeon. After reviewing your medical history, the surgeon will specifically discuss the concerns that you have about your breasts and what you wish to achieve with a breast reduction.
After examining you, the surgeon will outline what can be achieved with breast reduction surgery and give you a detailed explanation of the breast reduction procedure, the likely results and the usual course of postoperative events. The surgeon will also answer any questions that you and your partner may have about the breast reduction operation.
A suitable candidate is a woman whose breasts are so large that she is no longer able to live a comfortable life. She has difficulty buying suitable bras, the weight of the breasts causes neck and backache, she develops rashes under both breasts, is unable to partake in sports and leisure activities. In addition many women dislike the attention they get from their male counterparts.
At the end of your consultation, you will be issued with detailed written information about the breast reduction operation which you are strongly advised to read carefully at home. If you have any further queries/concerns, these can be discussed with the surgeon at a further consultation.
To find out more about Breast Reduction Surgery, click on any of the links below:
The Breast Reduction Operation
After the Breast Reduction Operation
Breast Reduction FAQs
Breast Reduction Gallery
or
Click here to download London Cosmetic Surgery Centre's "Guide to Breast Reduction"
Further Information about Breast Reduction Surgery can be obtained by reading our senior surgeon's latest book "Every Woman's Guide to Cosmetic Surgery". If you would like to purchase a copy, please click here.
