Breast reduction surgery: preparation, procedure, and risks

Having large and beautiful breasts is often the dream of some women. However, for some women this can actually lead to problems. If you have this, breast reduction surgery is one solution. What needs to be prepared?

What is breast reduction surgery?

Reporting from the Mayo Clinic, breast reduction surgery is a procedure performed to remove excess fat, tissue, and skin from the breasts. Usually this procedure is done by a person due to many factors, such as:

• Experiencing chronic back, neck and shoulder pain.
• Chronic rash or irritation of the skin under the breasts.
• Limited physical activity that can be undertaken.
• Poor self-image due to overly large breasts.
• It's hard to find a bra and clothes that fit.

However, not everyone who has the above problems can perform this breast reduction procedure. Doctors usually don't recommend it if you:

• Smoker
• Have a serious illness such as diabetes or heart disease
• Very fat

Although generally performed by women, in fact, this operation can also be required by men who have gynecomastia. Men with gynecomastia experience enlargement of their breast tissue.

This operation can be done at any age, including as a teenager. However, you should do this when breast growth has stopped, such as at the age of 20 years and over.

Preparation before surgery to reduce breast size

Before doing a breast reduction procedure, the first thing you need to do is definitely consult a surgeon.

Give your medical history in detail. Don't forget to ask whether this method is the only right solution to shrink your breasts.

Once approved, the doctor will explain various information you need to know about this procedure. When everything is confirmed, the doctor will ask you to make several preparations, such as:

• Complete various laboratory tests as needed.
• Do basic mammography.
• Quit smoking for a period of time before and after surgery.
• Do not take aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements.

Don't forget to prepare personal equipment such as a change of clothes for hospitalization.

Breast reduction surgical procedures

So that you have an idea of ​​what this surgical procedure looks like, here is an overview:

During breast reduction surgery

1. The doctor will make an incision around the areola (dark area around the nipple) on both sides of the breast.
2. Removing breast tissue, fat, and skin as needed.
3. Re-suture the incision while changing the position of the nipple and areola.

After surgery to reduce breast size

1. The doctor will cover the incision in the breast with gauze or a bandage.
2. Place a small tube under each arm to drain excess blood or fluid.
3. Prescribe pain relievers and antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.

Recovery process from breast reduction surgery

In the first week after surgery, the breasts will usually feel soft and very sensitive. In addition, the breasts will also look swollen and bruised.

Doctors usually recommend that you wear an elastic compression bra to protect your breasts.

After that, you will be asked to limit your physical activity for the next two to four weeks. Doctors also usually advise you not to wear wire bras for several months.

It is also not recommended that you lift heavy objects first.

The risks of breast reduction surgery

Just like other medical procedures, this operation has various risks that you must be prepared to face, such as:

• Bruise on the breast
• The appearance of scar tissue.
• Loss of sensation in the nipple and areola.
• Breastfeeding is difficult or even impossible.
• There are differences in the size, shape, and symmetry of the left and right breasts.

Breast reduction surgery usually has permanent and long lasting results. However, over time the shape of the breast can still change due to aging, changes in body weight, and hormonal factors.

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