For some individuals, large, heavy breasts can cause physical discomfort, restrict movement and lead to other challenges. When this happens, breast reduction surgery may offer relief.
What's involved in breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction surgery (reduction mammoplasty) involves removing some of the tissue and skin from the breasts to reshape and reduce their size. It can also reduce the area of dark skin surrounding the nipple (areola).
A breast lift (mastopexy) is similar to a breast reduction, except that, in some cases, it only involves removing excess skin. A breast lift can raise sagging or drooping breasts, which is a common problem with large, heavy breasts or sometimes after breastfeeding.
Sometimes, plastic surgeons use liposuction along with surgery. If most of the breast is fatty tissue and excess skin isn't a problem, liposuction alone may be enough for breast reduction.
Doctors perform breast reduction surgery in a hospital or surgical center, typically with general anesthesia. For smaller reductions, surgeons may use local anesthesia. The surgery usually lasts 3 to 5 hours and does not usually require an overnight stay.
What are some reasons why breast reduction surgery is performed?
Breast reduction can help adjust the size, weight, firmness and shape of the breasts. Common reasons for undergoing this procedure include:
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Improving comfort. Large, heavy breasts can cause back and neck pain, skin irritation and posture problems. The constant strain may cause uncomfortable indentations from bra straps. Breast reduction surgery can eliminate these issues in most cases.
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Increasing mobility and ease of movement. Even with proper support, large breasts can make engaging in some sports or other activities painful or awkward.
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Altering appearance. Large breasts, especially when they are out of proportion to your height and weight, can be uncomfortable. Teens and young adults with large breasts may feel self-conscious wearing swimsuits and other types of clothing due to unwelcome attention to large breasts. It also may be hard to find clothes that fit well.
While breast reduction surgery is frequently considered an elective or cosmetic procedure, some insurance providers may offer coverage when it is deemed medically necessary. Speak with your healthcare provider and insurance carrier to help determine eligibility.
What to expect during recovery
Right after surgery, the surgeon places gauze over the incisions. Then, the breasts are wrapped in an elastic bandage or supported with a special surgical bra. In some cases, a small tube in each breast may remain to help drain blood and fluid for the first couple of days.
If your surgeon closed your incisions with non-dissolvable stitches, a surgeon or nurse will typically remove them at a follow-up appointment within 7 to 14 days. Most people have some breast pain for the first few days after surgery and then milder discomfort for a week or longer. Medicine can help relieve the pain. Swelling and bruising may last for several weeks. Wearing a surgical bra 24 hours a day can help reduce swelling and support the breasts while they heal.
Some individuals are able to resume their normal work and social activities within a couple of weeks unless those activities involve heavy lifting or strenuous exercise. You may need to avoid more vigorous exercise and activities for 3 to 4 weeks or more. It's essential to wear a bra that supports the breasts well, such as a sports or athletic bra.
What are the risks of breast reduction surgery?
The most common risks of breast reduction surgery include:
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Scarring. Breast reduction surgery always leaves visible scars on the breasts, though their appearance may vary from person to person and by the type of incision. While scarring typically fades over time, it may remain very noticeable in some people long after healing.
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Unevenly positioned nipples or breasts that are not the same size or shape.
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Changes in sensation. Loss of feeling in the nipples or breasts is often temporary, lasting a few months; however, in some cases, it can persist for much longer or even become permanent. Those with reduced sensitivity before surgery may not notice a significant change.
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Some may have difficulty breastfeeding after surgery due to potential damage to the milk ducts, nerves and glandular tissue. However, many others may still successfully breastfeed despite these challenges.
Less often, damage to the breast's blood supply may occur during surgery, which can delay the skin's healing process. Loss of part or all of the nipple and areola can also occur, but this isn't common.
Other risks of surgery include:
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Excessive bleeding during surgery
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Reaction to the anesthesia
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Blood clots in large veins traveling up to the heart and lungs (pulmonary embolism)
These risks can be serious or even life-threatening, but they rarely occur.
How well does breast reduction surgery work?
People who have breast reduction surgery are often extremely satisfied. It can make the breasts smaller, firmer, lighter and more evenly proportioned while relieving the physical discomfort and pain caused by large breasts.
The procedure's results are considered permanent. However, the breasts may become larger or change shape due to weight fluctuations, hormonal changes from pregnancy, menopause or birth control, and the natural aging process. The tissue removed during surgery should not regrow.
Final thoughts
Every person's relationship with their body is unique. While outside opinions may shape experiences, breast reduction surgery is a highly personal decision. Consulting with a trusted healthcare provider can help ensure the procedure aligns with overall wellness and lifestyle goals.
The PPG – Plastic Surgery team consists of tenured, skilled providers who are here to walk you through your personal transformation. For more information or to schedule a private consultation, call 260-425-6960. You can also complete our online form here.
Copyrighted material adapted with permission from Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor.