Introduction
The breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical process used to remove excess fat, tissue and skin from the breasts. It is a relatively safe and effective medical process that reduces the overall size of a person’s breasts. Large breasts can cause health and emotional problems, so one might choose to have breast reduction surgery to ease discomfort or to achieve a breast that is proportional to the body. The weight of large breast tissue can impair the ability to lead an active life. The surgery helps in improving the self-image and the ability to participate in physical activities. Men with conditions such as gynecomastia or male breast enlargement may also undergo this surgery. People interested in breast reduction surgery need to fulfill the criteria to remove fatty cells from the breasts.
Who is a good candidate for breast reduction surgery?
In order to undergo breast reduction surgery, the interested person needs to fulfill the eligibility criteria to be a good candidate. Preferably, the following criteria needs to be fulfilled for breast reduction surgery:
- People who are physically fit, have high stamina and endurance
- People who are Above 18 years of age and is medically fit
- People who Neither drink nor smoke as it causes accumulation of fat in the body
- People who are bothered by feeling that the breasts are too large and feels insecure to go outside
- People who have breasts that limit their physical activity and are embarrassed to participate in social activities.
- People who experiences back, shoulder and neck pain caused by the weight of the breasts
- People who have skin irritation beneath the breast crease
For whom breast reduction surgery is not advisable?
There are times during which a surgeon will not perform breast reduction surgery. You may not be advised to go for breast reduction surgery if:
- You are pregnant or are currently breastfeeding as it can affect post-pregnancy sagging
- You have diabetes, breast cancer as it would affect the healing process
- You have dry or broken breast skin can result into complications in the surgery
- You have Hardened breast skin as it would interfere in the surgery process
- You have cellulitis (soft breast tissue infection) as it can weaken the immune system and increase the risk for cellulitis in the upper body, which includes the breast. This infection may also occur even after breast reduction surgery.
You are overweight or obese as it would increase the risk of having complications like wound healing process, infections and damage to the blood supply of the nipple related to surgery
How to prepare for breast reduction surgery?
Before undergoing breast reduction surgery, it is important to prepare for the surgery as it will reduce the risk of complications and will ensure expectations are fulfilled.
- Evaluate the medical history and overall health with the surgeon
- Discuss the expectations for breast size and appearance after the surgery
- Stop smoking for a certain period of time before and after the surgery.
- Avoid taking anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin and herbal supplements to control bleeding during surgery
What to expect after breast reduction surgery?
After the surgery, you may feel weak and sore for 2 to 3 weeks of recovery, you may also feel some pulling or stretching in the breast area. However, you can expect to feel better and stronger with each passing day. Scarring usually fades with time. You may need a follow-up visit with the surgeon to remove stitches and check the recovery.
Successful breast reduction surgery relieves pain in the upper back, neck and shoulders. Also, it increases the ability to participate in physical activities and promote a more positive self-image.
Although you may see results immediately, remember that it can take months for the swelling to completely go down and the surgical scars to fade. The final result is permanent, although breast shape and size can change due to factors such as aging and weight gain or loss.
Conclusion
Ideally, breast reduction surgery is appropriate for candidates who fulfil the above mentioned criteria and to attain this one must prepare themselves before planning to undergo the surgery. It’s necessary to consult a surgeon to identify if you are a candidate for treatment.
