Mammaplasty (Breast Re-sizing)

breast reduction :

 

surgical reduction of breast size in order to reduce the weight of the breast and relieve symptoms from usually large,pendulous breasts. the surgical procedure is also known as reduction mammoplasty.

 

the weight of very large breasts can cause back strain and discomfort. the bra straps can indent the skin and fat of the shoulders, producing permanent grooves and even scarring. the contact of the breasts and the lower chest wall can create a chronic skin irritation called "intertriginous dermatitis".very large breasts may interface with the ability to exercise. they also can make a woman feel "extremely self-conscious".

 

in breast reduction, excess fat and skin are removed from the breast. the breasts are reshaped to form smaller breasts and the nipple and areola are repositioned. breast reduction can also be used to even up the size of the breasts where one is much larger than the other, a condition known as "unilateral macromastia" (mammary hyperplasia)

 

breast reduction surgery is meant for women who have large breast and want to resolve issues such as:

● chronic back, neck and shoulder pain that require pain medications

● chronic rash or skin irritation under the breasts

● nerve pain

● restricted activity

● poor self-image related to large breasts

● difficulty fitting into bras and clothing

 

breast reduction surgery generally isn't recommended if you:

● smoke

● have certain conditions such as diabetes or heart problems

● are very obese

● want to avoid scars on your breasts

 

risks:

 

breast reduction surgery has the same risks as any other type of major surgery-bleeding, infection and an adverse reaction to the anesthesia. other possible risks include:

● bruising, which is usually temporary

● scarring

● removal of or loss of sensation in the nipples and skin surrounding the nipples (areolae).

● difficulty or inability to breastfeed.

● differences in the size, shape and symmetry of the surgically altered left and right breast, which might lead to further surgery to improve your appearance.

 

the surgery :

 

techniques for breast reduction vary but the most common procedure involves an anchor shaped incision that circles the areola, extends downwards and follows the natural curve of the crease beneath the breast. the surgeon removes excess glandular tissue, fat and skin;and moves the nipple and areola into their new position. the surgeon then brings the skin from both sides of the breasts down and around the areola, shaping the new contour of the breast.

liposuction may be used to remove excess fat from the armpit area.

in most cases, the nipples remain attached to their blood vessels and nerves. however, if the breasts are very large or pendulous l, the nipples and areola may have to be completely removed and grafted into a higher position. (this will result in a loss of sensation in the nipple and areolar tissue)

stitches are usually located around the areola in a vertical line extending downward and along the lower crease of the breasts, though they are often buried under the skin. in some cases, techniques can be used that eliminate parts of the scars. occasionally, when only fat needs to be removed l, liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size, leaving minimal scars.

insurance is unlikely to cover a procedure involving liposuction alone.

 

what you can expect:

breast reduction surgery is usually don't under general anesthesia,either in a hospital or outpatient surgical facility.

 

during the procedure:

the specific technique used to reduce the size of your breast can vary.

 

the procedure might include:

● surgery through incisions.

● liposuction to remove the excess fat in your breast.

 

the surgery usually:

● makes an incision around the areola and down each breast.

● removes excess breast tissue, fat and skin to reduce the size of each breast.

● reshapes the breast and repositions the nipple and areola.

 

the nipple and areola:

● usually remain attached to the breast.

● might need to be removed and then reattached to a higher position as a skin graft if your breasts are very large.

 

your surgeon will try to achieve symmetry between your breasts, but some variation in breast size and shape might occur. the size of the areola also might be reduced. your incision scars might fade over time but will never completely disappear.

 

after the procedure: immediately after surgery:

● your breasts will be covered with a gauze dressing or bandages.

● a tube might be placed under each arm to drain any excess blood or fluid.

● you likely will take medication for pain and antibiotics, to decrease your risk of infection.

 

for the first days or weeks after the surgery:

● your breasts will probably feel tender and sensitive.

● your breasts might be swollen and bruised

● your surgeon might recommend an elastic compression bra to protect the breasts.