Breast reduction is an operation to reduce the weight and volume of the breasts. It’s usually done under general anaesthetic. Most breast reduction surgery begins with the nipple, which is moved to its new position, usually while still attached to the blood supply. If you have extremely large breasts, the nipples may be removed before being repositioned. Excess skin and breast tissue are then removed. The remaining breast tissue is reshaped to create smaller and more elevated breasts.
The procedure can be done as a day case but usually you will stay in hospital for one night. If the stitches are not dissolvable they will normally be removed between 10 to 14 days after the operation.
What are the risks?
As well as the general risks of surgery, specific risks of breast reduction include:
- Uneven breasts.
- Your nipples may be asymmetrical.
- Loss of sensation in your nipples, including their ability to become erect.
- You may not be able to breastfeed in the future.
For more about the risks go to:
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Breast-reduction/Pages/Risks.aspx .
More information about breast reduction can be found at:
http://baaps.org.uk/procedures/breast-reduction
http://www.bapras.org.uk/public/patient-information/surgery-guides/breast-reduction
It is usually recommended that you wear a supportive bra (non-wired) day and night for the first three months. Post-surgical bras are available but you can also buy support/sports bras from high street retailers and supermarkets.
The wounds will be covered with Micropore tape after surgery. Your Surgeon will advise how long this should be left in place, probably about three weeks. After this time the tape can be removed after a warm shower.
Once the wounds are fully healed gently wash the wounds in the shower and pat dry with a towel. Gently massage the wounds/scars with a simple moisturiser ie. Vaseline or E45. Once the lotion has been absorbed you can support the scars by re-applying the tape. Repeating this every three or four days for three months improves the final scar. Silicon scar gel can also be applied after moisturising and before taping to help the scars heal. After three months massage all the scars vigorously to help them soften.
Post-surgical Bras:
http://www.macom-medical.com/post-surgery/bras
http://www.ideal-ms.com/shop/standard-line/z-bra-medical/
http://www.recovapostsurgery.com/