Editorial Team
... Read More
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookie Policy.
All you need to know about the breast reduction surgery. © Shutterstock
Breast reduction is not only a cosmetic procedure but most women who undergo it have been suffering from many problems due to disproportionately large breasts or gynecomastia . "Heavy breasts cause neck and back pain and indentations on the shoulders from brassiere straps. The skin under and between the breasts can get macerated and develop rashes. Large breasts can be excessively glandular and sometimes cystic, resulting in severe pain. It also can be very restrictive in terms of comfort, wearing clothes, and daily functioning, including many forms of exercise. There are no defined causes for breast hypertrophy and they can occur at any age, especially at puberty and during pregnancy and lactation," says Dr Devyani Barve, Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Nanavati Super Speciality hospital, Mumbai.
Who is an appropriate candidate?
Preparing for surgery
About surgery?
The plastic surgeon will take measurements and make necessary markings on the breast prior to surgery. This procedure is done under general anesthesia. Techniques (periareolar, lollipop or anchor shaped) vary according to the breast type and amount of lax skin however the anchor shaped incision is the most common. The goal of surgery is to reduce, lift and shape the breast.
In most cases, the nipple and areola moves with the breast as it is repositioned superiorly but in very large reductions, nipple and areola may need to be removed completely and reattached as a free graft. This may lead to altered nipple sensation.
Post surgery care?
You will need dressing of the incision for some days and a support brassiere. Antibiotics and painkillers may be prescribed for a few days. It is advisable to avoid lifting heavy things and moving the arms around much till the incision heals (about 2 weeks). It is advisable to avoid underwired brassieres for 1-2 months.
Follwing are the risks:
What you should know?