What is Reduction Mammaplasty?

Reduction Mammaplasty is an aesthetic (cosmetic) surgical procedure aimed at reducing overly large or sagging breasts to a more comfortable shape and size.

When is Reduction Mammaplasty desirable?

This procedure is indicated if you feel uncomfortable with your large breasts. You may suffer pain in the breasts, shoulders, lower neck or back. You may also have discomfort during physical activity. A breast operation minimizes these problems, enhances the posture, and helps improve your overall appearance and self-esteem.

How would this procedure help me?

A consultation with your plastic surgeon is the first step in considering Reduction Mammaplasty. You should frankly discuss your goals and expectations, and your plastic surgeon will explain to you whether this procedure is right for you. Special examination techniques like mammography (x-rays) may be required before the final decision. You should always keep in mind that the desired result is improvement, not perfection.

How important are psychological factors in relation to this procedure?

Emotional stability is the primary factor to be considered before any aesthetic surgery is performed. A "new body" does not guarantee a new life or an end to all personal problems. It is mostly the mental attitude of the individual that determines a successful outcome. Reduction Mammaplasty can improve your appearance and renew your self-confidence; the rest is entirely up to you.

How is Reduction Mammaplasty performed?

There are currently several techniques for Reduction Mammaplasty. They all aim to remove excess breast tissue, recontour the breasts, and reposition the nipples. Your plastic surgeon will take your physical condition and requirements into consideration, and will determine which technique would be best for you.

Are there any side effects of this procedure?

The scars are situated around the areolae of the nipple and under the breasts. They usually fade over 6-12 months. Thus although scars will be present, most patients believe they are worth it. There may be an alteration in sensation of the nipples, but this often improves with time. Current techniques of breast reduction may preserve the ability to breast feed but you should discuss this with your surgeon. There is normally a slight difference in size between the breasts and this may persist following your procedure. Thousands of reduction mammaplasties are performed each year. The vast majority of women are very happy with their improvement and often say that they "wish they had had the operation sooner!"

Will I be hospitalised for the procedure?

Reduction Mammaplasty is usually performed in a hospital under general anaesthesia. Although the average length of stay is two to four days, you should discuss the details of your recovery period with your surgeon.

What results can I expect?

The goal of your surgery is to reduce your breasts to a size that is in better proportion with your physique and makes you feel more comfortable. Your surgeon is the best person to determine whether your expectations are achievable.

Will the procedure leave any scars?

Although your surgeon will make every effort to keep them as inconspicuous as possible, scars are the inevitable result of any surgery. The scars should however be hidden on the undersurface of the breasts and thus become less visible after a period of time. Some patients have a tendency to develop thick scars and you should advise your surgeon if you are aware of this tendency in yourself.

When can I resume normal activities?

Most patients are back to their regular routine in about three weeks. To permit proper healing, you should avoid excessive exercise for the first three to four weeks. Returning to work or your normal activities is an individual matter, and your surgeon will advise you.