What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Diagnosis and Procedure of Breast Reduction Surgery
Diagnosis
Our doctor will ask about your medical history, including any past illnesses, surgeries or medications. You can also provide information related to a family history of gynecomastia or other conditions and gain insights into potential genetic factors. Discuss when you first noticed the breast enlargement and any changes in size or symptoms over time. Report any additional symptoms such as pain, tenderness, or changes in nipple appearance to our gynecomastia doctor, Dr Anirban Ghosh. Identifying whether the enlargement is primarily due to glandular tissue or excess fat will influence the treatment approach. An ultrasound might be used to assess the breast tissue more clearly at our gynecomastia clinic in Kolkata. It helps distinguish between fat and glandular tissue and can identify any underlying abnormalities. Blood tests might also be performed to measure hormone levels, including oestrogen and testosterone. Hormonal imbalances can be a cause of gynecomastia.
Procedure
At first, an incision around the areola, going vertically down to the breast fold and along the fold, is made. The surgeon will remove the excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to reduce breast size and reshape the remaining tissue.
The nipples and areolas are then repositioned to a more natural and youthful location. The size of the areolas may also be reduced.
Incisions are then closed with sutures and a sterile dressing or surgical bra is applied to support the breasts and reduce swelling. Small drains may be placed to remove excess fluid and reduce swelling.
When is Breast Reduction Surgery Recommended?
Some common situations when breast reduction surgery might be advised:
Back and Neck Pain: Large breasts can cause chronic back and neck pain because of the added weight. Reduction surgery can help alleviate these issues.
Shoulder Strain: The weight of large breasts can lead to shoulder indentations from bra straps and discomfort. Breast reduction can reduce this strain.
Postural Problems: Excessive breast weight may result in poor posture and related discomfort. Our clinic provides breast reduction for men which can help improve posture and offer a more masculine figure for them.
Exercise Challenges: Large breasts can make physical activities, such as running or sports, uncomfortable or difficult. Reducing breast size can make it easier to engage in physical activities and exercise.
Daily Activities: Activities like bending over or lifting can be uncomfortable or difficult with very large breasts. Reduction surgery can make these activities more manageable.
Body Proportion: Individuals may feel that their breasts are disproportionately large in comparison to their body frame. Breast reduction can help them to achieve a more balanced and proportionate body.
How to Prepare for Breast Reduction Surgery?
Discuss Your Expectations: Communicate your expectations from the surgery, along with your desired breast size and shape.
Medical History: Provide a complete medical history, including current medications, allergies, and any previous surgeries.
Required examinations: Depending on your age and health history, you may need mammograms or other imaging tests along with blood tests.
Medication Adjustments: Follow instructions on which medications to stop or continue.
Pre-Surgery Fasting: Follow dietary guidelines, including fasting from midnight before the surgery to prepare for anesthesia.
Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting or reducing your smoking before your breast reduction treatment, as smoking can impair healing and increase complications.
Weight Management: Maintain a stable weight. Significant weight fluctuations could affect the results of the surgery.
Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery
Recovery after Breast Reduction Surgery
- You will be given pain medicines to manage discomfort. Follow the instructions for dosage and schedule an appointment for best results.
- Some bruising and swelling are normal. This generally peaks within the first 48 hours and gradually subsides.
- In some cases, small drains may be placed to remove excess fluid and reduce swelling. Our surgeon will give you instructions on how you can care for these drains.
- Avoid strenuous activities and movements that might strain the surgical area.
- Sleep on your back with your head upright to reduce swelling and promote comfort.
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry. Follow our surgeon’s instructions for changing dressings and caring for the incisions.
- Attend follow-up appointments with our doctor to check the healing progress. Our surgeon will assess the incisions, remove stitches if needed, and ensure there are no complications.