There are more than 15 million cosmetic surgeries performed in the United States every year. Upwards of 50,000 of these involve breast reduction. It is a prevalent procedure that can yield many health and personal benefits.
And what are the benefits of breast reduction surgery? These depend on the individual but can be classified into a few general categories.
This article explains the basics of breast reduction surgery, including what the procedure entails. It also details the many benefits breast reduction can provide. The information here can help you make an informed decision about whether the procedure is right for you.
What Is Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction surgery, also known as “reduction mammoplasty,” is a safe and effective procedure. It entails removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin from breasts to reduce their size. It also involves removing and reshaping the skin around the breasts to achieve the desired shape and aesthetic.
Breast reduction is an outpatient procedure that requires general anesthesia. The process usually takes a few hours, and patients usually can return home that same day. In most instances, recovery from breast reduction surgery can take as little as a week, although complete healing can take longer.
While breast reduction surgery can be performed on patients of any age, it is most common in adult women. Teenagers who do not have fully grown breasts may need a second surgery later in life. Also, women who plan to breastfeed should be aware of the possible side effects the surgery can have related to this ability.
What Does Breast Reduction Surgery Involve?
During the procedure, the physician makes an incision, usually on the underside of the breast. This allows the doctor to access and remove excess tissue. Sometimes, liposuction is necessary for accomplishing this step.
Breast reduction also involves removing excess skin. In some cases, the procedure might demand repositioning the areola to a higher location on the breast. The doctor then closes the incision with sutures.
Is Breast Reduction Surgery Safe?
Yes, breast reduction is a very common and safe procedure. Surgeons have been performing it throughout the history of modern medicine. In fact, the first known breast reduction surgery was done in the late 19th century.
As with all surgeries, there are some possible side effects that you should be aware of. A common one is minor scaring at the incision location or other areas associated with skin removal.
There is the possibility of reduced sensitivity that, while mild, could impact the ability to breastfeed. It is important to discuss with your physician the effects on sensitivity and other possible repercussions.
In general, a reputable plastic surgeon will be able to discuss all aspects of the surgery with you before the procedure. He or she should understand your health goals and be willing to answer any questions you might have.
Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery
While there are very good cosmetic reasons for getting breast reduction surgery, the benefits extend far beyond appearance. Here are some of the most prevalent benefits to consider.
Relief From Physical Discomfort
One of the main reasons people get breast reduction surgery is relief from discomfort. Large breasts can lead to myriad physical complications. Common ones include back, shoulder, and neck pain caused by the weight of the tissue.
Some women experience acute nerve pain that results from the compression of ribs or shoulder blades. This can be serious and often only worsens over time.
Skin irritation and chafing under or around the breasts is another common condition for some women. They can experience chronic rashes and find it difficult to keep affected areas clean and dry for treatment.
Chronic pain and discomfort can have long-lasting health repercussions. They can affect your sleep and make everyday tasks more daunting.
Breast reduction surgery can help reduce or even eliminate these problems. If larger breasts are the primary cause of any of the problems above, this procedure may be the only means of effectively treating these issues.
Improved Fitness
Large breasts are not only a source of discomfort or inconvenience but can lead to diminished overall health. One of the main ways this happens is by making exercise more difficult and some activities impossible.
Breast reduction surgery can make it possible (or easier) to engage in different types of exercises. It can make sports like running more enjoyable. It also can lessen the likelihood of injury during certain physical activities.
Increased Self-Esteem
Women with larger breasts may feel self-conscious about their appearance. Chronic embarrassment can lead to diminished self-esteem. This is especially true for women who began experiencing these issues during their teens or early 20s.
Women with excessively large breasts may face difficulties finding clothing that fits well, including dresses, blouses, and bras. This can be a huge inconvenience and can add to the frustration and emotional turmoil they already experience.
Breast reduction surgery can help bring about improved confidence by creating a more congruous and proportional appearance. It can go a long way to helping women look and feel better about themselves.
Learn More About Breast Reduction Surgery
Now that you know the benefits and basics of breast reduction surgery, you can determine if the procedure is right for you. If you have further questions about the benefits of breast reduction, a qualified physician will be able to answer those for you.
Dr. Tracy M. Pfeifer is a double-board-certified plastic surgeon with decades of experience. She prides herself on her readiness to listen to her clients, understand their vision, and help them achieve the results they seek. Reach out to us today to learn more about our practice or to schedule a free consultation.