BREAST REDUCTION
Large and sagging breasts are a real concern for many
women. Breast reduction surgery is normally classified
as a functional or reconstructive procedure. Oversize
breasts interfere with normal function and physical
activity by causing back pain, postural problems, deformities
of the back and shoulders, skin rashes under the breasts
and breast pain. However, cosmetic surgeons also view
this surgery as an operation with an aesthetic component;
it can improve the shape of the breasts and nipples
and restore a more proportional breast appearance with
respect to the patient’s body.
WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE?
Any healthy female 18 years of age or older with realistic
expectations is a good candidate. She should have no
history of malignant cancer or active infection of the
breasts. Women who are pregnant or nursing are not eligible
for a breast reduction.
BEFORE SURGERY
During your initial consultation, the doctor will cover
all areas of concern including the procedure, pre and
postoperative care, risks and answer any questions you
may have. After your initial consultation, the doctor
will do a complete physical examination at a second
visit. He will also do some blood tests and take photographs,
which will allow you to better see the physical changes
once the operation is complete. We will again review
all relevant details regarding the surgery. You will
also be told to avoid aspirin and stop smoking for two
weeks before and after the procedure.
The complications associated with breast reduction include
anesthesia reactions, infection, bleeding, hematoma
(blood) or seroma (fluid) collections, numbness, wound
scars, asymmetry and wound healing problems (infection,
thickening, widening, dehiscence). Temporary side effects
include swelling, pain, redness and bruising. Although
every attempt is made to keep your scars as inconspicuous
as possible, the incisions will leave permanent, noticeable
scars in the lower portion of your breasts. A very rare
complication is loss of the nipple tissue. Breast reduction
may affect breast feeding in the future.
THE SURGERY
The surgery is performed in our fully equipped surgery
center under intravenous sedation and local anesthesia.
Patients sleep comfortably during the procedure and
wake up in the recovery room with no ill effects of
a general anesthetic. The operation involves removing
excess fat, breast tissue and skin, repositioning the
nipple and areola (the pigmented skin surrounding the
nipple) and reshaping the remaining breast tissue. The
final scar will be around the areola, extending vertically
down the breast and a short horizontal scar in the breast
fold. Dressings are placed over the incisions and a
tensor bandage and sports bra are put in place.
AFTER SURGERY
The procedure is performed as a day surgery. After approximately
one to two hours, the patients are ready to be picked
up by a responsible adult. In the first few days, patients
will experience some pain, swelling, and bruising. The
pain will subside dramatically in 4-6 days and the swelling
and bruising will subside in a few weeks. The breasts
will have a very abnormal shape and contour for the
first few weeks and will appear more normal and settled
after 4-6 weeks. You will be given a prescription for
pain medications and antibiotics, which you will take
for one week after surgery.
Patient will wear their sports bra for four weeks. You
may return to work 10 days after surgery. Any strenuous
activity should be avoided for four weeks after surgery.
Follow up appointments are booked for 10 days (to remove
stitches), 5 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year after
surgery. At times, a small secondary revision procedure
is required to achieve the optimal result.
THE RESULTS
The improvement in breast size and contour is for many
patients, accompanied by a positive body image. Patients
find choosing garments much more enjoyable as clothes
fit better and appear more flattering.
FEES
The surgery is covered by the Ontario Health Insurance
plan if patients are complaining of functional problems.
Click
here for a breast reduction diagram
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